Catholic Church in West Africa has resolved to embark on interreligious dialogue with a view to tackling growing extremism and Afro-traditionalist movements.
The Church, through the Reunion of Episcopal Conferences of West Africa (RECOWA) made this decision at its 5th Plenary Assembly on May 12, 2025, after a week-long session held at the Hotel Fleurs de Lys in Dakar.
The event drew 148 delegates, including cardinals, bishops, priests, religious, and lay faithful, under the theme: “For a Synodal and Self-Reliant Church in the Service of Justice and Peace in West Africa.”
At the meeting, there were key deliberations focused on enhancing synodality, promoting justice and peace, empowering the vulnerable, and advancing financial autonomy for the Church.
The assembly called for greater participation of lay faithful in decision-making, improved pastoral planning across dioceses, and stronger governance rooted in accountability and transparency.
In light of rising insecurity and social injustice, RECOWA urged dioceses to strengthen peacebuilding efforts from grassroots communities and to become bold voices against corruption and violence.
The bishops also stressed the need for interreligious dialogue in the face of growing extremism and Afro-traditionalist movements.
One of the standout resolutions was the push for the construction of a permanent RECOWA headquarters, funded through regional solidarity efforts. The conference also committed to integrating African cultural values in liturgy, theology, and pastoral ministry.
Notably, Bishop Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo was among the participants, contributing to the meaningful discourse and helping generate interest and direction for the future of the Church in West Africa.
A statement by the Oyo Diocese disclosed that RECOWA’s leadership, represented by President Most Rev Alexis Touabli Youlo and Secretary General Rev. Fr. Vitalis Anaehobi, pledged to implement the agreed resolutions and entrusted the mission to divine grace and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.