In a historic display of diplomatic engagement and interfaith solidarity, Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, represented President Paul Biya at the solemn inauguration of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate this Sunday, 18/05/2025, at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City of Rome. The event, which brought together over 200,000 faithful from across the globe, along with heads of state, senior religious dignitaries, and official delegations, showed its global significance. The Cameroonian delegation, led by Minister Atanga Nji, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to interreligious dialogue, peace, and respect for the universal values of the Catholic Church. Their presence at the Vatican highlighted the long-standing ties between Cameroon and the Holy See. The atmosphere in St Peter’s Square was filled with spiritual symbolism as Pope Leo XIV made his way through the crowd in the popemobile, greeting pilgrims before pausing to pray at the tomb of Apostle Peter, a gesture marking his continuity with the Church’s sacred mission as its 267th successor. In his first homily as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV spoke passionately about the pillars of his ministry, which are love and unity. Addressing a world deeply fractured by conflict, prejudice, and fear, the Holy Father urged the faithful to embody the principles of compassion and solidarity. His words resonated as a call for reconciliation, stressing that the Church must serve as a beacon of unity and a catalyst for healing divisions. He emphasised his commitment to working alongside all members of the Church in favour of collective engagement towards building a reconciled world. Following the Eucharistic celebration, Pope Leo XIV granted a brief audience to official delegations present, including the one led by Minister Atanga Nji. Some Cameroonian bishops were also spotted, like His Lordship Michael Bibi, Bishop of Buea Diocese; His Grace Andrew Nkea, Archbishop of Bamenda Archdiocese and President of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon; His Grace Samuel Kleda, Archbishop of Douala Archdiocese; and His Lordship Joseph-Marie Ndi-Okalla, Bishop of Mbalmayo Diocese. This gesture of diplomatic courtesy further solidified the bonds of friendship between Cameroon and the Vatican. Through Minister Atanga Nji’s participation, the nation expressed its solidarity with the values of peace and unity championed by the new pope, reinforcing its place in the global dialogue for harmony and mutual respect.