The Catholic Bishops' appeal comes weeks after President Tinubu himself expressed hope that Pope Leo XIV would visit Nigeria. “I see his (Pope Leo XIV's) efforts all over the world to promote world peace. I look forward to receiving him in Nigeria,” President Tinubu said. Recalling his participation in the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV's Petrine ministry, the President added, “I appreciate the Pope. It was an honour for me to lead the Nigerian delegation to his inauguration as Pope Leo XIV.”