Nigeria, May 18 -- Pope Leo XIV, was officially has been inaugurated in a grand ceremony in St. Peter's Square that drew tens of thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries from around the world.

The 267th Bishop of Rome assumes leadership following the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, after a decade-long papacy.

At precisely 12 noon, the Vatican curtains parted and Pope Leo XIV emerged to cheers, making his first appearance in the iconic Popemobile.

He received the Ring of the Fisherman, symbolizing his spiritual succession from Saint Peter.

Among the world leaders in attendance were:

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and diplomats from nearly 200 ...