“A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not building bridges, is not Christian” pope Francis 2016

Tributes to Pope Francis instantly poured in from around the world from presidents to people of all walks of like on Monday after the Vatican announced the pontiff’s death at age 88.

President Emmanuel Macron of France, a country that is largely Roman Catholic, focused on the pope’s impact on the church, writing on X that “From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis wanted the Church to bring joy and hope to the poorest. For it to unite humans among themselves, and with nature. May this hope forever outlast him.”

Nigeria former V.P. Atiku Abubakar: “The departure of Pope Francis marks the end of an era defined by humility, moral courage, and an unwavering commitment to the service of humanity. He was a trailblazer who “dared to walk where no one has gone.” He was a shepherd of the most vulnerable and worked for a better and united world. Pope Francis was a Pontif who walked among the people, whose voice echoed the cries of the poor and whose hands reached toward those cast aside by the world. His papacy was a bridge of compassion in a time of division, a balm of grace in a wounded world.

Nigerian former governor of Anambra state peter obi: “Pope Francis embodied the virtues of faith, hope, and compassion. He led with humility, spoke with wisdom, and acted with moral courage. He constantly strove to draw humanity closer to the ideals of peace, justice, and love. His deep concern for the poor, his steadfast advocacy for moral leadership, and his defence of human dignity earned him the admiration of people across all faiths and nations.

“Pope Francis devoted his life to the service of God and humanity. His legacy will live on not only in the hearts of the faithful but also in the global conscience he helped shape with grace, clarity, and conviction. In an age marked by division and uncertainty, his voice remained a steady call to unity, mercy, and justice.

Israeli President Issac Herzog, whose role is mostly ceremonial, offered condolences and called Francis a man of “deep faith and boundless compassion.”

“I truly hope that his prayers for peace in the Middle East and for the safe return of the hostages will soon be answered,” Herzog posted on X, referring to the pope’s repeated calls for an end to the war and the release of captives held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Former U.S. president Joe Biden wrote: “It is with great sadness that Jill and I learned of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. He was unlike any who came before him. Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him. For decades, he served the most vulnerable across Argentina and his mission of serving the poor never ceased. As Pope, he was a loving pastor and challenging teacher who reached out to different faiths. 

“He commanded us to fight for peace and protect our planet from a climate crisis. He advocated for the voiceless and powerless. He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church. He promoted equity and an end to poverty and suffering across the globe. And above all, he was a Pope for everyone. He was the People’s Pope – a light of faith, hope, and love.

Keir Stammer, the Prime Minister Of U.K stated: “Deeply saddened to hear of the death of His Holiness Pope Francis. His tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy. On behalf of the people of the United Kingdom, I share my sincerest condolences to the whole Catholic Church.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote: “Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world. From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope.

“I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace.”

Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum describes him as a great leader full of compassion, his post on X read: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis @Pontifex, a great leader whose compassion and commitment to peace touched countless lives. His legacy of humility and interfaith unity will continue to inspire many communities around the world.”

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez hailed Francis for focusing on the world’s most vulnerable; Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk posted a photo of himself on X with the pope, both smiling, and called Francis a “kind, warm and compassionate person;” Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said that Francis ”was in every way a man of the people.”

President of the Republic of Zambia Hakainde Hichilema: “Deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Holiness Pope Francis @Pontifex, a man of great humility and compassion, who led the Catholic Church by example. We join Catholics and fellow Christians across the world in mourning today. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Prime Minister of Singapore & Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong: “Deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. My condolences to the Catholic community in Singapore, around the world, the Vatican, and all who mourn. His compassion and leadership touched countless lives, inspired hope, and strengthened interfaith harmony.”

Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris praised Francis’ advocacy for the poor, and calls for improved interfaith relations and a focus on protecting the environment that made him “a beacon of hope and a voice for the voiceless.”

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.

BY: Adeoye Olorunseun Elizabeth