22/04/2025
The Time Has Come: Making the Case for a Nigerian Pope.
With Pope Francis' death at the age of 88, the Roman Catholic Church has lost one of its most transformative leaders in contemporary history. Jorge Mario Bergoglio, born in Argentina, was elected Pope in 2013 as the first Latin American Pope, the first Jesuit Pope, and the first to use the name Francis, which represents humility, peace, and concern for the poor and the environment. Pope Francis defied centuries of conventions. He removed barriers and built bridges.
During his papacy, he prioritized pastoral care and mercy, made significant reforms to Vatican governance and finances, and advocated for climate change, migration, and social justice. He also engaged in dialogue with other faiths and marginalized groups.
Now, the world is looking to the College of Cardinals to decide his successor. What Pope Francis started must not be allowed to end with him. I would like to boldly submit and advocate that the time has come for an African Pope. And more especially, Nigeria.
Today, Africa is no longer the Church's mission field, but rather its mission force. In Nigeria alone, nearly 30 million Catholics worship enthusiastically, vocations thrive, seminaries are full, and churches overflow. In the face of poverty, persecution, and political turmoil, the faith not only survives, but thrives. Africa has the youngest, most lively, and fastest-growing Catholic population in the world. How long will the center of growth remain on the edges of leadership?
Nigeria church is ready for Rome. Nigeria is not just populous in faith; it is rich in leadership. Nigeria is ready—not only to serve Rome, but to lead it.
•For decades, we have offered the Catholic Church towering figures who have long been considered papabile (eligible to be Pope).
•Cardinal Francis Arinze, whose theological brilliance and humility inspired Popes.
•Cardinal John Onaiyekan, a voice for peace and interfaith dialogue.
•And a host of bishops, priests, and lay leaders who carry the Gospel into marketplaces, campuses, conflict zones, and global pulpits.
Why now? Why Africa? Why Nigeria? First, consider equity and justice. Just as Latin America was recognized through Pope Francis, it is now time to reinforce Africa's voice in the Church's highest office. Second, consider faith and orthodoxy. In an era of moral turmoil, the Nigerian Church is a beacon of unwavering truth and tremendous spiritual fire. Third, for moral and spiritual leadership. The Nigerian Church is noted for its faith, orthodoxy, spiritual vibrancy, and strong moral voice in the face of worldwide moral relativism. In a world grappling with secularism, Nigeria offers a Pope rooted in faithfulness, clarity, and spiritual fervor. And lastly, for a new evangelization, a Pope from Africa would reignite the missionary spirit, justice-driven faith, and fearless compassion that have long defined Nigerian church life.
Let the Church listen to the Spirit.
The conclave serves as a spiritual upper room rather than a political battleground. Even in that sacred area, the Holy Spirit inspires discernment via the words of His people like you and me who must speak out. Let us not be silent when history invites us to speak. Let the Spirit of God, who has poured out renewal across Africa, likewise pour out leadership from her soil.
The Church is at a watershed moment—socially, politically, and spiritually. It must elect a Pope not only for Europe, but for the entire globe. The ideal candidate will address the concerns of Africa's young, devout, and active Church, as well as a worldwide society in need of reconciliation and renewed vitality.
A Nigerian Pope would not only recognize the contributions of African Catholics but would also usher in a new era of missionary zeal, justice, and Gospel-focused leadership. Let us pray, speak, and prepare not only for the next Pope, but also for a new Pentecost.
Isaac Komolafe is the Lead Pastor of Glory Bible Church and the ED of the Christian Centre for Mission, Family and Leadership Development, Abuja. www.ccmfl.org (WhatsApp +234 815 737 4528 [email protected])
