Port Harcourt, Nigeria|Feb 8, 2026|Fr. Dr. Okhueleigbe Osemhantie Ãmos
For the fifth time since ascending to the papacy, Pope Leo XIV has spoken out against the relentless violence in Nigeria, stressing the Vatican’s deep concern for the suffering of people. At the Sunday Angelus, the holy Father declared his “sorrow and concern” over the latest wave of deadly attacks, describing them as “a grievous wound to humanity and to the dignity of every citizen.”
On February 3, tragedy struck Woro village in Kwara State, where at least 160 people were massacred in a single night of terror. The Pontiff’s words carried the weight of compassion and urgency, urging Nigerian authorities to act “with determination to ensure the safety and protection of the life of every citizen.”
Violence has spread further into Kaduna State, where armed groups abducted 51 people and killed six in raids across four villages. Among those taken was Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, parish priest of Holy Trinity Church in Karku. The Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan confirmed the attack, describing it as “an invasion by a group of terrorists.”
Beyond Nigeria, the Pope extended his prayers to victims of human trafficking and those affected by floods and landslides in Spain, Morocco, Portugal, and Sicily. His appeal was universal: suffering anywhere is a wound to humanity everywhere.
Pope Leo XIV’s persistence in addressing Nigeria’s plight is striking. No other nation has drawn so many papal appeals during his pontificate, a demonstration of Vatican’s strong solidarity with a people under siege. His voice remains a beacon, calling the world to prayer, compassion, and decisive action.
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