Abati Urges Catholic Bishops to Lobby Pope for Nigeria Visit

On Thursday, Reuben Abati, a former presidential aide and current television host, called on the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) to advocate for a visit from the Pope to Nigeria in preparation for the 2027 general elections. Speaking on a morning show, Abati highlighted the Pope's scheduled visit to four African countries in April, which includes Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea, marking the first papal visit to the continent.

He questioned the possibility of including Nigeria in this tour and stressed the necessity for spiritual intervention in light of the country's worsening insecurity and ongoing violence. Abati referenced recent comments from Catholic bishops urging President Bola Tinubu to address these pressing issues, indicating a broader call for the Church to take further steps in seeking the Pope's visit.