pope francis dies at 88

Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, has made history as the first American pope. His election has been met with global praise, with leaders like U.S. President Donald Trump, Colombian President Gustavo Petro, and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu offering support. Here’s a look at the key...

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a U.S.-born cleric with deep missionary roots in South America, has been elected the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. His swift election by the conclave reflects strong support among cardinals for his leadership style and global vision. Historic First...

The Roman Catholic Church has elected a new pope following the death of Pope Francis in April at age 88. White smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney and the ringing of St Peter’s Basilica bells confirmed the selection after the fourth ballot on day two of the conclave. The new pope’s identity is...

As the world watches for white smoke, Nigerian Catholics are not just anticipating a name — they’re hoping for a Pope who sees, understands, and responds to the realities of faith lived under pressure. Cardinals are in conclave at the Vatican to elect a new Pope, following Pope Francis’s...

Fulfilling Pope Francis’s last wish, his 2014 popemobile is being converted into a mobile health clinic to provide essential medical care to children in Gaza, addressing the dire healthcare crisis in the region. The popemobile, used during Pope Francis’s 2014 Holy Land visit, is being...

President Donald Trump posted an AI-generated image of himself as the Pope on Truth Social, drawing backlash from social media users who accused him of disrespecting the late Pope Francis' death. The controversial post has raised questions about Trump's intentions and sparked intense reactions...

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, speaking from Rome after attending Pope Francis's funeral, told Nigerians that poverty is not a crime. He emphasised that poverty could be seen as a virtue, urging unity and self-sacrifice, especially during the Easter period. Meanwhile, the World Bank warned...

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has stirred controversy by claiming that Pope Francis died due to the COVID-19 vaccine — a statement quickly fuelling debate and disbelief. Pastor Chris claimed during a recent sermon suggesting the vaccine was responsible for the Pope’s death. Pope Francis’ actual death...

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s surprise arrival at Pope Francis’ funeral drew spontaneous applause, highlighting the emotional weight of the moment. Zelenskyy arrived quietly at St. Peter’s Basilica for the funeral service. The crowd broke into spontaneous applause as he entered. His...

Pope Francis’ funeral Mass drew world leaders, clerics, and pilgrims to St Peter’s Square, marking an emotional farewell to a beloved global figure. Pope Francis’ wooden coffin was carried into St Peter’s Square to ringing bells and applause. Over 250,000 mourners visited his body in the days...

Today, the world bids farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. His funeral at St. Peter’s Square reflects his lifelong commitment to humility and inclusivity. Attended by over 200,000 mourners — including global leaders and marginalized individuals — the ceremony honors his...

Nigerian Senate President Godswill Akpabio is set to lead the country’s official delegation to the funeral of Pope Francis. This significant role comes amidst global mourning for the pontiff, who passed away recently. Akpabio’s appointment underscores the importance of diplomatic relations...

African cardinals are set to play a key role in selecting the next Pope, marking a significant moment for the Catholic Church. This move is seen as a step towards a more inclusive leadership, with Africa’s growing influence within the Church now undeniable. Highlights: Several African...

Pope Francis’s coffin has commenced its procession to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, where it will lie in state for three days. The event marks the beginning of public mourning following the pope’s death on Monday at the age of 88. Highlights: The procession began at the Santa Maria...

Lionel Messi, captain of Inter Miami, has shared a heartfelt tribute following the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88. In an emotional social media post, Messi reflected on the Pope’s remarkable legacy, noting his universal influence and deep faith. The tribute serves as a moment of...

Following Pope Francis' death, the Catholic Church prepares for the papal conclave, where cardinals will elect his successor. This process, rich in history and tradition, ensures that the next pope will be chosen by a group of senior church leaders. Highlights Papal Conclave Process: After...

Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke, which led to a coma and irreversible heart failure. His death occurred on April 21, 2025, at 7:35 AM in his Vatican residence. Despite recent health challenges, including double pneumonia, his death was unexpected...

Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, has left behind a testament reflecting his lifelong devotion to simplicity and humility. In his will, he requested to be buried in a modest grave at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, diverging from the tradition of papal...

Peter Cardinal Okpaleke of the Ekwulobia Diocese is the only Nigerian cardinal eligible to vote in the upcoming papal conclave. At 62, he is under the age of 80, meeting the Vatican's criteria for participation. The other three Nigerian cardinals—Francis Arinze (92), Anthony Okogie (88), and...

Serie A has postponed all matches scheduled for Monday following the death of Pope Francis at 88. The Vatican confirmed he passed away due to double pneumonia. The league announced that the affected fixtures will be rescheduled, though new dates have yet to be confirmed. Highlights: All Serie...