The Vatican has appointed Edward Daleng, an Augustinian priest from Plateau state, as vice-regent of the Pontifical Household.
Daleng, who has recently been seen accompanying Pope Leo XIV at official engagements, now occupies a role equivalent to a deputy chief of staff in the papal administration.
As vice-regent of the Pontifical Household, Daleng is responsible for the pope’s non-liturgical and administrative affairs, including the coordination of audiences, official visits and the organisation of the papal household.
The position places the Nigerian priest at the centre of the Vatican’s day-to-day administrative operations surrounding the pope’s public and official activities.
Daleng, a member of the Order of St Augustine (O.S.A), hails from Plateau state and is one of the most senior Nigerians to hold an administrative role within the Vatican in recent years.
His appointment has drawn attention among Catholics and Nigerians alike, with many noting that he is expected to feature prominently alongside the pope during major engagements.
