Pope Leo XIV has issued a heartfelt plea for peace and security in Nigeria following a recent surge in killings in Kwara, Katsina, and Benue states. According to The Guardian, the Pontiff described the reports of violence as “deeply troubling” and urged the Nigerian government to do more to protect the lives and property of its citizens. The message, delivered via his official social media channels, emphasized his closeness to the victims and their families during this period of grief.
Reporting by Vanguard indicates that the Pope’s intervention comes at a time of heightened anxiety in rural communities where abductions and communal clashes have escalated. The Pontiff expressed hope that “the competent authorities will continue to work with determination to ensure the safety of every citizen.” Daily Post validated the report, quoting a local bishop who said: “The Holy Father’s words are a balm to our people, but we need the government’s actions to match his prayers.”
In an update published by The Punch, several civil society organizations have echoed the Pope’s call, demanding a more proactive approach from the security agencies. A representative from a human rights group noted, “The Pope’s global call for attention should be a wake-up call to our leadership that the world is watching the deteriorating situation in the North-Central zone.” This development puts added international pressure on the Tinubu administration to deliver on its security promises.
Echotitbits take:
The Pope’s involvement elevates the security situation in Nigeria’s Middle Belt to a global humanitarian level. It increases the pressure on the Nigerian government to show tangible results in these specific regions, which are critical for food security. Watch for a potential redeployment of specialized military units to the Benue and Kwara axes in response to this international spotlight.
Source: AfricaNews – https://www.africanews.com/2026/02/08/catholic-pope-leo-xiv-calls-for-an-end-to-violence-in-nigeria/, February 9, 2026
Photo credit: Los Angeles Times
