Nigeria, April 25 -- The progressive signature of Pope Francis on the Vatican was unmistakeable from the beginning of his papacy. Since the Catholic pontiff died on Easter Monday, the remarkable positions taken by the Bishop of Rome on many socio-economic and political issues have been amply acknowledged in tributes from diverse quarters. The Pope stood for world peace. He preached compassion. He opposed the widening inequality and social injustice which define the world. He cautioned against irresponsibilty in matters of climate change. He appointed women to postions of responsibilty in the Vatican. He condemned the suffering of women and children as Israel bombed the occupied territory of Gaza, just as he rejected antisemitism. With his...