In a remarkable appointment that has drawn attention across the Catholic world, Pope Leo XIV has named Rev. Fr. Edward Daniang Daleng, OSA, a Nigerian priest, as Vice Regent of the Prefecture of the Papal Household — one of the Vatican’s most prestigious offices.

The Prefecture of the Papal Household is responsible for coordinating papal audiences, ceremonies, liturgies, official events, and other activities involving the Pope’s direct engagements within Rome and across Italy. It also handles spiritual retreats for the Holy Father, meetings of the College of Cardinals, and relations with the Roman Curia.

Fr. Daniang, a member of the Order of St. Augustine (OSA), has long been known for his dedication to theological scholarship and pastoral service. Before his new appointment, he served as General Councilor and later as Procurator General of the Augustinian Order, managing official relations with the Holy See.

Born on April 4, 1977, in Yitla’ar, Kwalla, Plateau State, Nigeria, Fr. Daniang joined the Augustinians in 2001, made his solemn profession in 2004, and was ordained a priest in 2005. He holds a Doctorate in Moral Theology from the Pontifical Alphonsian Academy in Rome, where his doctoral research focused on the dignity and care of terminally ill patients.

Fr. Daniang’s relationship with Pope Leo dates back over two decades. The two first met in 2001, when the then–Father Robert Prevost (now Pope Leo XIV) visited Nigeria as Prior General of the Augustinian Order. Their friendship deepened over the years as Daniang moved to Rome in 2002 and worked closely with the Augustinian leadership.

Following the Pope’s election, Fr. Daniang described him as “a humble and simple man with a deep love for Africa,” noting that as Prior General, Pope Leo visited Nigeria at least ten times.

This appointment marks another milestone in the growing recognition of African clergy in key leadership positions within the Vatican.