The Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Catholic faithful both in Nigeria and around the world following the successful conclusion of the Papal Conclave and the election of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV.
In a statement issued by its National President, Prince Mosediq Kazeem, SAN, the Islamic organization hailed the emergence of Robert Prevost, the first American to be elected Pope, as a historic milestone that ushers in a new era for the Catholic Church.
Kazeem described the development as a powerful testament to the enduring strength and unity of the global Catholic community, saying it reflected the continuation of apostolic succession and the Church’s commitment to spiritual leadership.
“We commend the Catholic faithful in Nigeria for their steadfast prayers, unwavering devotion, and commitment to the spiritual well-being of the Church throughout this sacred process,” Kazeem stated.
He added that as Nigerian Catholics join believers across the globe in embracing the new Pontiff, the Ansar-ud-Deen Society prays that his papacy will be marked by divine wisdom and a profound dedication to advancing peace, justice, and human service.
“As the Catholic community in Nigeria joins the universal Church in welcoming the new Pontiff, we pray that his papacy will be blessed with wisdom, humility, and a deep dedication to the mission of peace, justice, and service to all humanity. May his leadership inspire renewed hope, strengthen faith, and advance the work of the Gospel both in Nigeria and across the world,” he stated.
Kazeem emphasized the Society’s enduring commitment to promoting religious tolerance and mutual respect, quoting from the Qur’an to underscore the historical bond between Muslims and Christians.
“While the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria remains committed to fostering interfaith harmony and understanding in the spirit of interfaith harmony, the group invokes the words of the Qur’an ‘…And you will find the nearest of them in affection to the believers are those who say, ‘We are Christians.’ That is because among them are priests and monks, and because they are not arrogant.’ (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:82),” he quoted.
He concluded with a prayer for continued peace and collaboration between both faiths: “May Almighty Allah continue to bless the Catholic Church in Nigeria, strengthen the bonds of peace between our communities, and grant abundant grace to Pope Leo XIV as he leads the flock of Christ with compassion and justice.”
