Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has advised those advocating for the election of an African Pope to prioritize the continent’s development and unity first. In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm, Bishop Kukah remarked, “Let’s win the World Cup first,” suggesting that Africa should achieve significant milestones before aspiring for such positions in the Catholic Church.
He emphasized that the process of electing a Pope is not based on regional entitlement or turn-taking. “Electing a pope is not an ‘Emilokan’ scenario,” he said, referencing the Yoruba term meaning “it’s my turn,” which has been popularized in Nigerian political discourse.
Reflecting on his experiences in Rome during the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Kukah highlighted the Vatican’s role as a global hub for moral diplomacy. He noted that the election of a Pope transcends regional considerations and is guided by the Holy Spirit, not by human calculations or lobbying.
Bishop Kukah also addressed the broader implications of leadership in Africa, urging religious, traditional, and political leaders to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s growth. He stressed that Africa’s development depends on the integrity and competence of its leaders, rather than symbolic representations in global institutions.
