The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to the Roman Catholic Church on the historic election of Pope Leo XIV. In a statement issued on Friday, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh acknowledged the significance of this moment for Catholics around the world, emphasizing the joy and renewed sense of hope it brings. He described the election of Pope Leo XIV as a milestone that symbolizes a fresh chapter for the Catholic Church, full of promise and spiritual rejuvenation.

Archbishop Okoh expressed optimism that the newly elected Pope will continue the noble legacy of his predecessors by promoting values such as peace, justice, unity, and inclusiveness. He noted that CAN believes Pope Leo XIV is well positioned to provide strong spiritual leadership and moral guidance at a time when the world deeply needs it. The association also offered prayers for the Pope’s wellbeing, asking for God’s wisdom, strength, and good health to accompany him throughout his pontificate. “May God guide and strengthen him in his ministry,” the CAN statement read.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the new Pope, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the United States, was elected as the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. Upon his election, he adopted the name Pope Leo XIV. The official announcement was made in the traditional manner from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where Cardinal Dominique Mamberti declared “Habemus Papam” (“We have a Pope”) to the thousands of faithful assembled in St. Peter’s Square.

At 69 years old, Pope Leo XIV is the first American ever to ascend to the papacy. He previously served as the Superior General of the Augustinian Order. He succeeds Pope Francis, the Church’s first Latin American pontiff, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88.