Tens of thousands of people are expected to attend to see him in person for the first time.

The 69-year-old former missionary and head of the Augustinian Order was elected on Thursday as the successor to Francis, becoming the 267th pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church.

The conclave lasted less than 24 hours.

When he stepped onto the balcony shortly afterwards as Leo XIV, he greeted the more than 100,000 people waiting below with the words, “Peace be with you all.”

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This was followed by loud cheers.

On Saturday, the new pope made one of his first trips outside the Vatican to visit the grave of his predecessor.

He was taken to the Marian church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, the final resting place of Francis, the former pope from Argentina.

At the grave, which bears the simple Latin inscription “Franciscus,” Leo prayed.

Source: dpa/NAN

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He said the Pope’s vision was anchored on justice, inclusiveness, humility, dialogue, and a preferential option for the poor.

He said the Pope’s leadership qualities deeply resonated with the aspirations “I hold for Imo State.”

Amadi, who made his position known in a statement in Abuja, said those marginalised in the world had hope under the new Pope.

He said: “With a heart full of joy, I extend my warmest congratulations to you on the historic election of Pope Leo XIV as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church.

“This is a moment of deep spiritual significance – a time of renewal, hope, and recommitment to the timeless values that anchor the Church and inspire billions across the globe.

“Pope Leo XIV’s ascension to the papacy is not only a triumph of faith but a clarion call to all of us in leadership and public service. His vision, anchored in justice, inclusiveness, humility, dialogue, and a preferential option for the poor, deeply resonates with the aspirations I hold for Imo State.

“The Pope’s commitment to bridging divides, uplifting the marginalized, and promoting peace mirrors my own conviction that leadership must be measured not by words but by transformative action-action that improves lives, strengthens communities, and advances the common good.

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“In Imo State, where the Catholic faithful have long been pillars of moral guidance, community service, and social development, I recognize your invaluable role in shaping a society rooted in compassion, integrity, and progress.

“I am particularly inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s example of servant leadership-a leadership that listens, unites, and delivers.

“May this new chapter in the life of the Catholic Church ignite in all of us, regardless of faith, a renewed dedication to justice, reconciliation, and the pursuit of a society where every individual can thrive.

“Congratulations once again to the Catholic Church and to the faithful in Imo State. Together, may we build a future worthy of our highest ideals.”

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