Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi revealed how he encouraged Peter Obi to greet President Bola Tinubu during an encounter at the Vatican in May 2025. The meeting took place at the inaugural mass of Pope Leo XIV in Rome.
Fayemi spotted President Bola Tinubu seated with other world leaders. He then urged Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, to join him in paying homage. Peter Obi agreed to the suggestion.
On reaching President Bola Tinubu, former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi broke the ice. He said, “Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence.”
Both Kayode Fayemi and Peter Obi are Catholics. President Bola Tinubu is a Muslim. President Bola Tinubu replied in a light hearted manner. He said, “I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I am the head of the Nigerian delegation.”
The response drew laughter from Peter Obi, who agreed with the statement. The three men shared a moment of pleasantries and exchanged jokes during the event.
The encounter marked a rare public interaction between President Bola Tinubu and his 2023 election rival, Peter Obi. Kayode Fayemi, who supported Bola Tinubu in the election, played a key role in facilitating the greeting.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga shared photos and details of the meeting on social media. The event occurred as world leaders gathered for the papal installation ceremony.
Kayode Fayemi later disclosed the behind the scenes push that led to the cordial exchange. The interaction highlighted a moment of unity among Nigerian leaders on foreign soil despite their political differences.
