Abati Urges Catholic Bishops to Lobby for Papal Visit

Reuben Abati, a veteran journalist and former presidential aide, called on the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) to lobby for a visit from Pope Leo XIV, highlighting the dire need for prayers in Nigeria as the country approaches the 2027 general elections. Abati made this appeal during a Thursday morning show on Arise Television, referencing the recent remarks from the Catholic bishops urging President Bola Tinubu to address the worsening insecurity and ongoing violence in parts of the country.

He noted that Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to visit Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea in April, marking his first papal visit to the continent. Abati questioned the possibility of including Nigeria in the Pope's African tour and stressed the importance of spiritual intervention for the nation, particularly in light of the upcoming elections.

He emphasized that Nigeria is in a time of need and that prayers are crucial.