Obi hails Pope Leo XIV at 70, prays for strength, peace
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his 70th birthday, describing his life as a testament to faith, humility, and courage.
In a post on his X handle on Sunday, Obi joined Catholics worldwide in celebrating the Pontiff, noting the significance of his birthday coinciding with the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross.
He praised the Pope for his leadership, guidance, and service to the Church, and prayed for his continued health and wisdom.
Obi wrote,”On this blessed day of your 70th birthday, our beloved Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV, I join the Universal Church and all people of goodwill in congratulating you, Holy Father.”
He further highlighted the Pope’s life as a model of perseverance and faith, saying,”Your journey through the years has been a living witness to God’s grace, shaping you into a shepherd whose life speaks of faith, humility, and courage.
“As you continue to preside over the Church in communion with the bishops, my heartfelt prayer is that the Lord will keep guiding and guarding you, granting you strength, peace, and joy in the sacred task you carry.”
On the symbolic timing of the Pope’s birthday, Obi said,”It is profoundly significant that your birthday falls on the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross.
“This sacred feast reminds us that the Cross, once a symbol of suffering, has become the sign of victory, redemption, and unshakeable hope.
“In the same way, your own life reflects how faith, perseverance, and fidelity to Christ can transform trials into triumphs.”
Obi concluded with a prayer for the Pontiff’s continued wellbeing.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Illinois, is the first American to ascend to the papacy in the Catholic Church’s history.
He was elected as the 267th pope on May 8, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis in April 2025.
Prevost, a dual U.S.-Peruvian citizen, had a distinguished career as a missionary in Peru and later served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.
His election was seen as a bridge between the Church’s traditional roots and its evolving global presence.
Upon his election, Prevost chose the papal name Leo XIV, honoring Pope Leo XIII, known for his advocacy for social justice.
