By Lanre Oloyede
Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his 71st birthday, describing his advocacy for peace, human dignity and the vulnerable as an inspiration to humanity.
In a birthday message to the Catholic Pontiff, Adebayo recalled his encounter with the Pope at the Vatican within the past year, saying the meeting strengthened his appreciation of the Pontiff’s humility, warmth and commitment to human welfare.
Adebayo said Pope Leo’s voice had become increasingly important amid global challenges, including wars, terrorism, poverty, displacement, inequality and the social implications of rapid technological advancement.
He said the Pope’s consistent calls for peace, dialogue, reconciliation and solidarity underscored the need to place human dignity at the centre of global affairs.
The SDP candidate also stressed the importance of the Pope’s message to Africa, particularly as the continent’s youthful population continues to face security, economic and developmental challenges.
“His persistent call for peace, dialogue, reconciliation and solidarity is particularly significant for Africa, a continent whose young population carries enormous hopes but also faces serious security and development challenges,” Adebayo said.
According to him, Nigeria and other African countries require a global environment in which peace can foster economic development, technology can be harnessed for the benefit of humanity, and international cooperation can help reduce poverty and inequality.
Adebayo prayed for continued good health, wisdom and strength for Pope Leo XIV as he leads the Catholic Church and contributes to efforts toward a more peaceful and compassionate world.
“I therefore join millions of people around the world in wishing His Holiness a very happy 71st birthday. May God continue to grant Pope Leo XIV the wisdom and courage to guide the Church and to contribute to the building of a more peaceful, just and compassionate world,” he said.
Describing his Vatican meeting with the Pope as a singular privilege, Adebayo concluded his message with the Latin expression, “Ad multos annos, Your Holiness!”, wishing the Pontiff many more years of service to the Church and humanity.
