RAYMOND O L U S E S A N AINA (original) (raw)

Uploads

Videos by RAYMOND O L U S E S A N AINA

The volumes deal with current realities (doctrinal, pastoral, moral, social) in Post-Vatican II A... more The volumes deal with current realities (doctrinal, pastoral, moral, social) in Post-Vatican II African Catholicism. Copies are available on Amazon.

Papers by RAYMOND O L U S E S A N AINA

The International Journal of African Catholicism Winter 2023, Volume 13, Number 1 , 2023

While Fratelli Tutti adheres to recent magisterial teachings on Catholic social morals, this cont... more While Fratelli Tutti adheres to recent magisterial teachings on Catholic social morals, this contribution makes the case that the encyclical is related to the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace. This essay, relying on the critical rhetorical communication theory, concludes that several stated tasks outlined in the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Fratelli Tutti have not been realised in Nigerian Catholicism. The article argues that Fratelli Tutti's contact rhetorical symbolism must be domesticated and allowed to challenge Nigerian Catholicism if the Catholic Church in Nigeria is to demonstrate its fidelity to Catholic social imagination and thought. There are many choices, but not all of them need to be hierarchy-driven.

Bulletin of Ecumenical Theology, vol. 31, 2019

Migration is an integral dimension of human history, and nations are beneficiaries of human mobil... more Migration is an integral dimension of human history, and nations are beneficiaries of human mobility. Contemporary migration waves and trends that have both prospects and challenges contribute to the emergence of anti-migration policies and postures in many nations. This article contributes to the conversation on how migrants and host nations can exercise their rights (to migration and border protection) without a clash or an infringement of rights. We present a three-pronged thesis. The first situates African migration within the purview of human rights. The right of Africans to migration is not absolute-every host nation has a right to border protection. The second contends that since the world is the birthplace of all humans, and humans are beings-in-relationship, a civilization of communion and the globalization of citizenship are relevant paradigms for articulating a theological response to the contemporary trend of migration from the Global South to the Global North. The third proposes a theology of migration grounded in a reconsideration of the right to migration not as an isolated right, but as part of making an option for migrants. These theological paradigms rooted in a civilization of communion would inspire the treatment of migrants as persons created in the image of God, whose rights and dignity ought to be promoted, protected and preserved.

nrpages: 440status: publishe

Journal of Catholic social thought, 2023

A more dynamic approach to Catholic social thought that encourages a prophetic discernment can cr... more A more dynamic approach to Catholic social thought that encourages a prophetic discernment can critically challenge the official narrative presented in the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, which is widely popular in Africa. This article develops this argument by revisiting three key problems that CST encounters in the African reality: poverty, violence, and justice. Significantly, the postcolonial discourse of “anthropological poverty” serves as both a justification for and a critique of the Compendium. This article highlights how a prophetic discernment’s dynamic approach, through the lens of anthropological poverty, enriches or critiques official Catholic social teaching’s views on the problems of poverty, violence, and justice. The discussion that follows in the article establishes how a less hierarchical approach to contemporary social questions is both necessary and attainable, while showing that this approach is, in part, taking place in Africa.

Images about Africa in the northern hemisphere are generally negative and pessimistic. In spite o... more Images about Africa in the northern hemisphere are generally negative and pessimistic. In spite of instant global communication, why have these images persisted till date? This contribution shall revisit these perceptions and the images embodying them to unearth the motivations and rationale. The central argument, based on some narratives and experiences, is that ignorance feeds these images and stereotypes. Furthermore, positionality of non-African experts and some groups of African scholars and activists contribute to this culture of ignorance and paternalism. The contribution shall end with an ethical evaluation of the persistence of the images and the extent of moral responsibility of the authors and carriers of the racist stereotypes embedded in the images. (DIPF/Orig.)

Justice, Development, and Peace Commission's Directors'/Stakeholders' Meeting, 2022

This is a summary of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria's (CATHAN) Vademecum for Ele... more This is a summary of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria's (CATHAN) Vademecum for Electors in Nigeria: Manual for Responsible Citizenship according to Catholic Social Teaching (October 2018). The document is the outcome of a resolution passed at CATHAN’s annual conference in April 2018. The synopsis was delivered on May 11, 2022, at the Catholic Resource Centre in Abuja, during the Justice, Development, and Peace Commission's Directors'/Stakeholders' Meeting.

African Journal of Criminology and Justice Studies Ajcjs, Jun 1, 2010

The lack of peace in most post-colonial African nation-states is tied to unresolved political asy... more The lack of peace in most post-colonial African nation-states is tied to unresolved political asymmetry among peoples with contending narratives of origins and power relations. The Justice system bequeathed to these states at their flag independence has been unsuitable for evolving a justice continuum that can ameliorate the asymmetry and consequent conflicts. However, Restorative Justice appears to hold promises and inspirations for affected nation-states. Nevertheless, this article contends that a perceived hyper-romanticisation of Restorative Justices promises must be tempered with critical realism about its ambiguities. Nigeria's Restorative Justice experiment, Human Rights Violation Investigation Commission, serves as point of reference.

Peace is a journey, starting from the interior of the persons involved, but aimed towards a re-cr... more Peace is a journey, starting from the interior of the persons involved, but aimed towards a re-creation of the community for the sake of justice and well-being after disasters. So, in (proactive) intervention during a humanitarian crisis, 'aid delivery' is not enough. Aid agencies need to embrace comprehensive peace-building. That is the principal thesis of Opongo in his Making Choices for Peace. So, he proposes 'field diplomacy', a vital tool in post-conflict peacebuilding, as integral to aid agencies' activities.

Journal of Inculturation Theology, 2012

Since Light of the World, the book-interview of Pope Benedict XVI, was publicly presented on Nove... more Since Light of the World, the book-interview of Pope Benedict XVI, was publicly presented on November 23, 2010, it has elicited various responses worldwide, especially with regard to his opinion on the possibility of ‘sex with condom’ in the face of real threat of HIV infection of some categories of persons. This contribution examines some of the commentaries and responses, with a specific Nigerian focus. This contribution and the critical engagement with some ‘teachers of the faith’ should be seen as part of Africans’ theological ethical contributions to the discussions within and outside the Roman Catholic Church on the (un)likely reasonability of ‘sex with condom’ in some cases as opined by the Pope.

FACULTY OF THEOLOGY, CATHOLIC INSTITUTE OF WEST AFRICA, PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA, 2019

EDITORIAL This issue of the Journal of Inculturation Theology (JIT) is another collection of sch... more EDITORIAL

This issue of the Journal of Inculturation Theology (JIT) is another collection of scholarly articles from reputable academics across the West African sub-region and Europe. The papers were carefully selected and edited from recommendations of the blind peer review panel. The expectation is that theologians, philosophers, educationists, clergy, religious men and women as well as the lay faithful will have source materials for research and discussion on the all-important issue of the Inculturation Theology. This is especially germane in view of the reality and urgency of the theology in Nigeria and many African nations. The authors have elicited rich, responsive and converging reflections and approaches on how to continuously provide enlightened and incisive Practical Inculturation Theology. This will influence the local Church and the wider society, in order to cherish and pursue this trend of Inculturation Theology. The Journal will hopefully serve as a major effort and catalyst towards such enlightenment to pursue the course of Inculturation Theology. Assuredly, this is the thinking that runs across the articles published by JIT in this digital age.

The Church, and indeed, the contemporary society are living through an epochal age. As digital residents, some today refused to migrate into the digital age; hence, they are the digital fugitives. Many of us make effort to explore the opportunities and threats; hence, they are the digital immigrants. While our young people born since 1980, who are versatile with modern technological toys and tools, are digital natives. We must collaborate and co-operate, in order to instruct and communicate the designs of God to His children in this New Era of Evangelization. Patrick Chukwudezie Chibuko, in his article Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the Liturgical life of Christians Today: An Anglophone West African Response opens “the academic excursus” by stating the functional relationship between the liturgy and the Information Communication Technology (ICT) on the human person and the larger society. As ICT is person oriented; in the liturgy, the Church celebrates a Personality, namely Christ, not as a theory, philosophy, ideology or figment of imagination. What liturgy recalls in celebration, ICT records and preserves for posterity in gadgets.

In pursuance of this mission of the Church as a communicating community with ICT, Elizabeth Titilayo Aduloju, in her paper, Navigating the Present-Day Digital Media Proliferation: A Challenge for Pastoral Agents in Nigeria, underscores a fact that the new media technologies have revolutionised the entire globe, altering substantially, the way people work, live, learn and how they spend their leisure time. In Nigeria, young people, who are ‘native speakers’/’digital natives’ of the digital language of computers and video game, are already spending more time on new media such as mobile phones, social media and the internet. With the new development, today’s young people encounter a lot of challenges such as gratuitous sex and violence, cyberbullying, trivialisation of news and many others.

The article, The Youth and Legacy of the SECAM Golden Jubilee (1969-2019), by Ferdinand Nwaigbo, calls attention to the problem of the contemporary youth which consists in living out the legacy of Christianity and in preserving their cultural identity and heritage. This is because Christianity is a religion with diversities of cultures, customs, traditions and legacies. The article elaborates the need to renew the commitment of the youth to bear witness to Jesus Christ, in a culture that is encapsulated in exploiting the youth, keeping them out of decision taking processes in a society marked with gender sensitivity and democratic revolutions.

In her write-up, The Impact of Globalization on Youth Identity Formation in Nigeria: The Moral Perspective, Anthonia Bolanle Ojo notes that Globalisation is the force behind the changes across the globe. It provides a series of powerful processes that enable both opportunities and risks to thrive. The paper explores how the young people live and experience the world, becoming more open and accessible while living in their own world in Nigeria.

Benjamin Yakubu Bala, in his article, Rising Spade of Suicide Among Young People in Nigeria: A Christian Moral Response, observes that the increasing spade of suicide among young people in the world and particularly in Nigeria is worrisome. The numbers are quite devastating and very scaring.

Good Governance and Overcoming Insecurity in Nigeria: An agenda for Political Leaders and Agents, by Raymond Olusesan Aina, laments that despite being touted as the biggest economy in Africa, Nigeria remains one of the countries in Africa where multidimensional poverty, daunting and daily crisis abound. Many structures in Nigeria are dilapidated. Violence, insecurity and lawlessness are the order of the day.

Relatedly, Ignatius M.C. Obinwa, in his article, Knowledge from Correct Education as Panacea for Conflicts and Lawlessness: Examining the Nigerian Context in the Light of Isaiah 11:1-9, discusses such manifestations of conflicts and lawlessness in Nigeria as corruption, bloody religious intolerance, nepotism and inter-tribal bloody combats in the light of Isaiah 11:1-9.

Cosmas Okechukwu Ebebe, in his write-up, Ministerial Priesthood and its Ecclesial Setting within an African Context, unveils that priesthood in the Catholic Church is of primary importance. This is because of the centrality of the Sacraments in the life of the Church. Through her perennial teachings, the Catholic Church is called the Church of the Sacraments since Sacraments are indispensable in the life of the Church.

In his contribution, Clergy-Laity Distinction: Testimonies of the New Testament, Wilfred Chidi Agubuchie studies the attestation of the New Testament (NT) to clergy-laity distinction in the Church. The paper argues that although the terms ‘clergy’ and ‘laity’ are not expressly employed in the NT to stratify the faithful, and notwithstanding that various offices were yet undeveloped, there are sufficient evidences showing that the primitive Church had distinction of offices and officers.
In sum, the Journal has to be in the possession of anyone who wants to be better informed on trends and directions of Theological Inculturation. The authors have concurred unanimously and unequivocally that for the Church to be truly the Church of Jesus Christ, she must be both universal and particular.

Emmanuel Chinedu Anagwo
Editor-in-Chief

Bulletine of Ecumenical Theology, 2019

Asian Horizons, 2018

Following the Church's traditional teaching on the sacrament of marriage, Amoris Laetitia eulogis... more Following the Church's traditional teaching on the sacrament of marriage, Amoris Laetitia eulogises marriage as an esteemed vocation, which needs proper discernment and sustained preparation. The document devotes space to the discernment phases of betrothal and newly married. This contribution argues that Amoris Laetitia misses out on a necessary phase prior to betrothal. This is a specific period of discernment which has not been given its pastoral attention. This contribution offers a possible framework for pastorally assisting parties in courtship to discern adequately as they view marriage on the horizon. This vocational discernment consists of the features of what Gaudium et Spes calls honourable courtship, pastoral care for honourable courtship, and specific challenges to courtship in an African context.

Beyond political self-exile and a sense of political ‘homelessness’, Catholics in Nigeria must em... more Beyond political self-exile and a sense of political ‘homelessness’, Catholics in Nigeria must embrace the civic demands imposed on them by their Catholic faith. Going forward, to 2023 and beyond, what are concrete actionable goals that the Church in Nigeria can pursue? This paper, delivered to the Catholic hierarchy and faithful, during the first 2019 Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria, offers 4 principles of Catholic Social Teaching and 8 actionable proposals that can deepen democratic culture in Nigeria through advocacy for Good Governance and pursuit of Common Good.

Amoris Laetitia should be seen for what it is and what it offers. It is a pastoral exhortation fo... more Amoris Laetitia should be seen for what it is and what it offers. It is a pastoral exhortation for all families. It offers a framework for pastors on how to deal with special moral issues in marriage and family life. This contribution argues that we should not presume that the dominant discussions at the 2014 and 2015 synods of bishops are necessarily the pressing needs of the People of God in Sub-Saharan Africa. This article shows that the synods glossed over some pressing concerns in Africa. It discusses how the Family of God in Africa can take inspirations from Amoris Laetitia on how to build up and promote the ‗joy of love in families.'

Images about Africa in the northern hemisphere are generally negative and pessimistic. In spite o... more Images about Africa in the northern hemisphere are generally negative and pessimistic. In spite of instant global communication , why have these images persisted till date? This contribution shall revisit these perceptions and the images embodying them to unearth the motivations and rationale. The central argument, based on some narratives and experiences, is that ignorance feeds these images and stereotypes. Furthermore , positionality of non-African experts and some groups of African scholars and activists contribute to this culture of ignorance and paternalism. The contribution shall end with an ethical evaluation of the persistence of the images and the extent of moral responsibility of the authors and carriers of the racist stereotypes embedded in the images.

Technology, including digital information and communication technologies (DICT), is not morally n... more Technology, including digital information and communication technologies (DICT), is not morally neutral. It is built on a rejection of God and divine providence. Hence, it has no regard for theistic perspective; neither does it consider the bigger picture that classical philosophy and religion consider. Yet, DICT has demonstrated the potential to be a powerful driver of revolution and social change. Besides, the virtual reality created by DICT has somewhat helped to cushion the negative effects of loneliness and emotional instability caused by necessary physical separation. Nonetheless, the human community cannot be blind to DICT's moral quandaries. How is DICT changing the understanding of common traditional notions like 'selfhood', 'community', 'friends', 'truth', and 'fidelity'? Do we use these technologies to celebrate the height of human nobility, or we use them to descend into the abyss of immorality? At what point can we say 'enough!'? Can we say 'enough!' again, or we are condemned to the technological imperative? These questions inspire this article's reflection, from a Christian theological ethics perspective.

The International Journal of African Catholicism Winter 2023, Volume 13, Number 1 , 2023

Bulletin of Ecumenical Theology, vol. 31, 2019

nrpages: 440status: publishe

Journal of Catholic social thought, 2023

Justice, Development, and Peace Commission's Directors'/Stakeholders' Meeting, 2022

African Journal of Criminology and Justice Studies Ajcjs, Jun 1, 2010

Journal of Inculturation Theology, 2012

FACULTY OF THEOLOGY, CATHOLIC INSTITUTE OF WEST AFRICA, PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA, 2019

EDITORIAL This issue of the Journal of Inculturation Theology (JIT) is another collection of sch... more EDITORIAL

Emmanuel Chinedu Anagwo
Editor-in-Chief

Bulletine of Ecumenical Theology, 2019

Asian Horizons, 2018

Images about Africa in the northern hemisphere are generally negative and pessimistic. In spite o... more Images about Africa in the northern hemisphere are generally negative and pessimistic. In spite of instant global communication , why have these images persisted till date? This contribution shall revisit these perceptions and the images embodying them to unearth the motivations and rationale. The central argument, based on some narratives and experiences, is that ignorance feeds these images and stereotypes. Furthermore , positionality of non-African experts and some groups of African scholars and activists contribute to this culture of ignorance and paternalism. The contribution shall end with an ethical evaluation of the persistence of the images and the extent of moral responsibility of the authors and carriers of the racist stereotypes embedded in the images.

The modest task I set out in this presentation is to offer an ethical perspective on the various ... more The modest task I set out in this presentation is to offer an ethical perspective on the various ways of confronting the reality of violence in Nigeria, a preeminent cleft country characterised by civilisational faultiness and prebendal politics. The paper offers a firm confession in Christian hope that Nigeria is not fated to self-destruction. Beyond its recurring ‘clashes of civilisations’, it is possible to pursue ‘embrace of civilisations’. Echoing Scott Appleby’s thesis in Ambivalence of the Sacred, paradoxically, religions have unique role to play in overcoming a heritage of toxic emotions and bloodbath.

34th Annual Conference of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria, 2019

'Inculturation’ means the process of making the faith at home in a particular culture. ‘All aspec... more 'Inculturation’ means the process of making the faith at home in a particular culture. ‘All aspects of life must be inculturated,’ says John Mary Waliggo. So, Moral Theology is subject to inculturation. To achieve this aim, Bénézet Bujo, one of the pioneers of African theology, and Paulinus Odozor, a second-generation African (moral) theologian, agree that there is the need for methodological foundations of African Christian ethics. In pursuing their aim and objectives both moral theologians confront themselves with methodological questions as articulated by Bujo: “Can the Moral law be founded on something other than the natural law?” and “How can one bind consciences of people from other cultural milieus to an ethics founded on natural law?” The subject of this paper, therefore, is the ensuing conversation between Bujo and Odozor, as they grapple with these questions. This project is a critical contribution to the development of an African Fundamental Moral Theology, which contests the claims to moral Esperanto of Western morality. The paper brings up to date the crucial acquaintance with African Fundamental Moral Theology and its methodology, as part of grounding new generation African theologians and missionaries in intercultural ethical reasoning.

34th Annual Conference of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria, 2019

This Presidential Address at the 2019 Annual conference of the Catholic Theological Association o... more This Presidential Address at the 2019 Annual conference of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria (April 23-26, 2019), sets the tone for the conference with questions for the conference participants. Can we say, within the context of this conference theme and bias, ‘ex Africa semper aliquid novi’? What’s new about doing theology in Africa today? Are African theological hermeneutics and projects creative and ingenious? These questions are looking back to what African theologians have been doing formally since 1956. As we courageously face those questions in the coming days, we have the future in view with regard to our theological vocation in the Church: ‘What will be the quality of the contribution of Nigerian Catholic Theologians at the next ecumenical council?'

Presented at the 2018 Annual conference of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria, on th... more Presented at the 2018 Annual conference of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria, on the imperative of moving beyond agonising to organising, as part of civic responsibility of faithful believers and citizens.

What does the revalorisation and deprivatisation of religion portend for transitional societies a... more What does the revalorisation and deprivatisation of religion portend for transitional societies and illiberal democracies like Nigeria, fronm the perspective of Catholic Social Thought and Moral Theology? (Presented at the 2018 Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria''s Anuual conference, between April 3 and 6, 2018)

Africae Munus speaks of Catholic schools as places to learn how to create a climate of harmony an... more Africae Munus speaks of Catholic schools as places to learn how to create a climate of harmony and peace (AM 134) in the light of a globalisation of intolerance and fractionalisation. Hence, Catholic schools should come up with programmes that can help shape the minds of young Africans for a more peaceful and reconciled future (AM 135). A pertinent area of study, according to Africae Munus, is traditional conflict resolution method, especially mediation (AM 33). Another area that needs to be studied is the role of restorative justice in conflict transformation (AM 83). The results of these studies have to be taught formally and informally as part of ‘Catholic Education at the service of Justice, Peace and Reconciliation’ if we shall bestow on the younger generation a world beyond intolerance, indifference and civilisational conflicts. Considering the foregoing, this paper argues that Nigerian theologians should seek to incarnate the teaching of the second ‘African Synod’ pedagogically by formulating a trans-disciplinary curriculum for ‘Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies’. This paper shall suggest the following themes for the curriculum: History & Myths; Conflict & War Foci; Intercultural/religious Learning; Health & Gender; Social Analysis; Globalisation; Peace-building Components; Negotiation and Peace-building Initiatives; Post-conflict ‘After-words’. (Text of a voluntary paper at the 32nd Annual Conference and Meeting of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria, April 20, 2017)

In designing an appropriate youth formation and ministry, does a nuanced understanding of 'cool' ... more In designing an appropriate youth formation and ministry, does a nuanced understanding of 'cool' have any place in forming the successors to the Church's success? (Text of presidential address at the 32nd Annual Conference and Meeting of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria, April 19, 2017)

A communique of the 32nd Annual Conference of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria, on... more A communique of the 32nd Annual Conference of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria, on the theme Youth Formation and Globalisation in Nigeria

How do we make sense of the audacious claim that the Church’s ‘option for the poor’ is an endurin... more How do we make sense of the audacious claim that the Church’s ‘option for the poor’ is an enduring challenge for societal transformation? Is there hope for such claim in a world whose global economy serves just 1% of its population? How hopeful is the claim given the fact that at least in Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa, while the Church opts for the poor, the poor are opting for Pentecostalism?

A key claim in Laudato si’ is that humans are to a great extent culpable for the current state of... more A key claim in Laudato si’ is that humans are to a great extent culpable for the current state of the earth. This position challenges Christian theology of creation and environmental ethics to pay close attention to what humans have accentuated in the last five decades and the system they have constructed to make this change so rapid and widespread. This contribution’s key assertion is that there is a theological ethical reasoning underpinning Laudato si’s various positions. What is this theological reasoning? Where in the schools of ethical theories can one locate Laudato si’? Or is the encyclical decidedly eclectic? If Laudato si’s aims and objectives are achieved, what’s the big deal then about the document’s method(s) of theological ethical reasoning? What does Laudato si’ teach us about deploying Christian ethics at the service of the ‘poorest of our sisters and brothers’? These questions form the basis of this contribution’s moral theological engagement with Laudato si’.

JORAS - Nigerian Journal of Religion and Society, Volume 6, 2016

Building sustainable peace in places violently torn apart is essential to Christian identity. Hen... more Building sustainable peace in places violently torn apart is essential to Christian identity. Hence, this contribution offers that the Body of Christ in Nigeria, attentive to her ethical responsibility in the light of advances in critical criminology, especially Victim Studies and Restorative Justice, must move beyond its current acrimonies to evolving structures and habits that care for victims and perpetrators of violence so as to build just peace. Africae Munus notes that the search for reconciliation, justice and peace in Africa cannot be an exclusive search. It must be ecumenical and interreligious (nos 88-96). The post-synodal exhortation, however, does not proffer areas of ecumenical actions for reconciliation, justice and peace. This limitation becomes clearer if one compares it with WCC's resource book, Participating in God's Mission of Reconciliation, which also focuses on reconciliation and justice in Africa. The article seeks to contribute to ecumenical dialogue of life, and particularly to suggest missing ecumenical structures in Nigeria. The Body of Christ united in suffering must respond ecumenically to heal Nigeria's past and present to realise a future hoped for.

JORAS - Nigerian Journal of Religion and Society, Volume 8, 2018

Amoris Laetitia has proved to be momentous. It addresses the state of the family, its challenges ... more Amoris Laetitia has proved to be momentous. It addresses the state of the family, its challenges in the present age and the role it can still play regardless of the challenges and even hostilities, on the heels of the 2014 and 2015 Synods of Bishops. Curiously, some of us had the erroneous perception that this synod was just about broken marriages, civil divorce, remarriage, access to the sacraments; and same-sex unions. Many of us in this part of the world let the media and Western narratives dictate how we follow and interpret doctrinal and pastoral developments in the church today. Unfortunately, we let this fixation neglect broader issues, especially our issues. This article directs our attention to the dire necessity of praxis-oriented reception of Amoris Laetitia in Nigeria. The contribution analyses reception efforts so far, and ends by offering how deepen and further the much-needed pastoral reception of the post-synodal exhortation especially in Nigeria is at the moment.

JORAS - Nigerian Journal of Religion and Society, 2013

This article revolves round two crucial questions about Nigerian youth. First, why are Nigerian y... more This article revolves round two crucial questions about Nigerian
youth. First, why are Nigerian youth easy instruments for
perpetrating mass violence? Second, how can the same Nigerian
youth become agents of transformation rather than destruction?
This contribution formulates a response to these questions in four
major movements. First, it examines the problem with Nigeria,
and focuses especially on the role of emotions in intractable
conflicts. Second, it presents an ethical imperative for some
problematic responses in the face of increasingly rapid insecurity
due to the proliferation of toxic emotions. Third, it reflects on
Thomas Aquinas' ethics of vengeance and the obligation of mercy
even to enemies. Finally, the article considers proposals that can
secure Nigeria's future and build trust in a land full of mistrust and
uncooperativeness.

JORAS - Nigerian Journal of Religion and Society, Volume 4, 2014

Nigeria appears fated to a volatile existence. It is apparently under the curse of centrifugal fo... more Nigeria appears fated to a volatile existence. It is apparently under the curse of centrifugal forces. While some scholars like Ola Rotimi argue that the 'Gods' are not to blame for the persistence of this violent existence, others like Wole Soyinka and the 'Gods' solely culpable. This article revisits this debate to offer hope that Nigeria is not necessarily fated to volatility. Yet we must confront ourselves with hard questions. Can there be justice that heals a divided nation where there are clashes of narratives about Nigeria's existence? How courageous are we in confronting our past, especially the truth about ourselves and groups to which we have 'primordial ties'? The article concludes by offering, through the perspective of the Human Rights Violation and Investigation Commission Report, some ways beyond the culture of impunity that has made developing national consciousness almost impossible even after a century of Nigeria's existence.

International Journal of African Catholicism, Volume 10, no. 1, 2020

This article argues that some ‘counterintuitive’ research results in secular sciences appear to c... more This article argues that some ‘counterintuitive’ research results in secular sciences appear to confirm a key Humanae Vitae’s message. Also, it argues that while the contraception markets may be slowing down in the West, the market is expanding in Africa, without regard to the moral morass and health hazards that even Western secular scientists are pointing out. The third argument is that secular scientific studies are grasping the message of the Church’s pro-life teaching. There is a connection between conjugal happiness and premarital sexual experiences. Accordingly, today’s youths need to explore the relationship between a ‘pro-life’ disposition demanded by Humanae vitae and honourable dating and courtship that the Church stresses in Gaudium et Spes (no. 49) and Catechism of the Catholic Church (nos 1632, 2350).

RELIGION AND VIOLENCE: The Potential for Conflict and Peace, 2021

There are socio-economic, ethnic, political, legal, and religious dimensions to protracted social... more There are socio-economic, ethnic, political, legal, and religious dimensions to protracted social conflicts in Nigeria. Religion is just a variable in protracted social conflict. This thesis on the relationship between religion and violence in Nigeria appears contrary to popular opinion. In defending my thesis, I suggest that Samuel Huntington’s ‘clash of civilisations’ and ‘cleft countries’, and John Paden’s analysis of Islam in Nigeria in the context of ‘civilisational fault lines’ help us understand religious violence in Nigeria. Nevertheless, Nigeria is not fated to self-destruction. Beyond its ‘clashes of civilisations’, it is possible to pursue the ‘embrace of civilisations’. Paradoxically, religions have a unique role to play.

Religion und Gewalt Konflikt- und Friedenspotenzial, 2018

Die langwierigen sozialen Konflikte in Nigeria haben sozioökonomische, ethnische, politische, rec... more Die langwierigen sozialen Konflikte in Nigeria haben sozioökonomische, ethnische, politische, rechtliche und religiöse Dimensionen. Religion ist nur eine Variable in den verfahrenen sozialen Konflikten. Diese These über die Beziehung zwischen Religion und Gewalt in Nigeria scheint der öffentlichen Meinung zuwiderzulaufen. Sie wird von Samuel Huntingtons Clash of Civilisations, dem "Zusammenprall der Zivilisationen" und seiner These der "zerrissenen Länder" sowie von John Padens Analyse des Islam in Nigeria vor dem Hintergrund der "Bruchlinien" zwischen den Zivilisationen untermauert und hilft uns, die religiös motivierte Gewalt in Nigeria zu verstehen. Nichtsdestotrotz ist Nigeria nicht zur Selbstzerstörung verdammt. Jenseits des Zusammenpralls von Zivilisationen ist es möglich, eine "Akzeptanz der Zivilisationen" anzustreben. Paradoxerweise spielen dabei die Religionen eine einzigartige Rolle. "Kämpfen und Töten für Gott" in Nigeria Für Nigeria, das kürzlich sein hundertjähriges Bestehen feierte, sind religiöse Konflikte ein relativ neues Phänomen.

Journal of Moral Theology, Volume 5, no. 2, 2016

THYPOSTATIC UNION IS HARDLY INVOKED in Catholic social ethics, unlike the more arcane doctrine of... more THYPOSTATIC UNION IS HARDLY INVOKED in Catholic social ethics, unlike the more arcane doctrine of the Trinity, which appears more popular for both the Church and public theologians. Yet, from the doctrine of the hypostatic union, humans can recognize that God encounters humans and beckons them on towards full reconciliation without destroying what defines them as humans. Rather, God unites them with himself. That “mode of being” should be Christians’ critical contribution to the public as inspired by their distinctive ethics. Accordingly, Catholic Social Teaching/Thought needs to acknowledge the promise of the “hypostatic union” as a more viable theological analogue in the Church’s theology of reconciliation.

AFRICAN ECO-THEOLOGY: MEANING, FORMS AND EXPRESSIONS, 2021

This work presents Laudato Si in such a manner that increases our awareness that we co-belong wit... more This work presents Laudato Si in such a manner that increases our awareness that we co-belong with the earth. Five years on, the Interdicasterial Working Group of the Holy See on Integral Ecology followed up with Journeying Towards Care For Our Common Home. It submits that we need to collaborate among ourselves to cope with present-day ecological concerns. The expository and analytical methods were employed.

NACATHS Journal of African Theology, Volume 30 (pp.193-210), 2022

Pope Francis says in Fratelli Tutti, no. 72: "We have seen, descending on our world, the dark sha... more Pope Francis says in Fratelli Tutti, no. 72: "We have seen, descending on our world, the dark shadows of neglect and violence in the service of petty interests of power, gain, and division." Pope Francis establishes his premise of 'dark clouds over a closed world' by highlighting "certain trends in our world that hinder the development of universal fraternity." Notably, for this contribution, Pope Francis refers to the illusion of communication 4 in the wake of what we now call "infodemic". The tragedy of COVID-19 is closely related to infodemic. Since it is the subject of this contribution, I shall treat it separately. Thereafter, I shall interrogate the famed success of Nigeria from the lens of Pope Francis' teachings in Fratelli Tutti and his Pandemic-themed book.

Truth in the Waters of Wisdom: Relevance of Old and New Fountains of Knowledge for Our Time (Fs Anthony Akinwale, OP, 2022

' social encyclical on human fraternity, Fratelli Tutti cites Thomas Aquinas' Summa Theologiae to... more ' social encyclical on human fraternity, Fratelli Tutti cites Thomas Aquinas' Summa Theologiae to back its declaration that love is distinguished as 'elicited' and 'commanded'; and 'commanded' love is the domain of a new kind of politics that will enhance human fraternity. In note 181, Fratelli Tutti states, "Catholic moral doctrine, following the teaching of Saint Thomas Aquinas, distinguishes between 'elicited' and 'commanded' acts; cf. Summa Theologiae, I-II, qq. 8-17.. . ." In the portion Fratelli Tutti cites, Aquinas invokes the distinction between elicited and commanded human acts in his discussion on the moral event and the internal and external principles of morality. How appropriate is this citation in the discussion on the Catholic Social Teaching's twin obligations in the Society: Social Justice and Charity 1 ? What has political love got to do with the structure of the human act, which is the subject of ST, I-II, qq. 8-17? How can we properly understand what is referred to as "'elicited' love" and "'commanded' love"? These questions revisit the content of FT 186, and they offer directions for the thrust of this contribution.

Treasures Old and New: Celebrating Three Great Men of Bodija, 2023

In his encyclical Fratelli tutti, Pope Francis presents a profound moral reimagining of fraternit... more In his encyclical Fratelli tutti, Pope Francis presents a profound moral reimagining of fraternity and social friendship. This text challenges the closed-world mentality that hampers our ability to perceive the unique perspectives of others, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and pluralism. This chapter examines Pope Francis' moral reimagining of fraternity and social friendship in Fratelli tutti. It begins by critically examining the vision for social friendship articulated in Fratelli tutti, highlighting the centrality of mercy and moral imagination in fostering a more just and humane future. It explores the driving force behind Pope Francis' advocacy and his unwavering hope in a world where universal fraternity prevails over exclusion. Finally, it discusses the implications of Pope Francis' moral reimagining for building a more just and peaceful world. Through a comprehensive analysis, this contribution sheds light on Pope Francis' moral illumination and its transformative potential.

Verlag Ferdinand Schöningh, 2021

ABUJA JOURNAL OF PHILOSOPHY AND THEOLOGY, 2022

APT 12 is leading the way in Nigeria, and among its primary audience, in offering thorough scient... more APT 12 is leading the way in Nigeria, and among its primary
audience, in offering thorough scientific research on the theme in
the light of the ongoing reception of Fratelli Tutti and the Synod of
Bishops on synodality. The leading articles on the theme offer
similar conclusions. The lack of civility and fraternity in ecclesial
and secular Palaver (conversations) is a violation of the premise
that every human being, formed imago Dei, has inherent value.
Palaver creates a sacred and safe venue for civil discourse and
fraternal dialogue.

Abuja Journal of Philosophy and Theology, Jun 2021

A pandemic throws up so much moral catch-22 in quick successions that every stakeholder (governme... more A pandemic throws up so much moral catch-22 in quick successions that every stakeholder (governments, administrators, hospital personnel, and individual persons) is confronted with lots of dilemmas that can sometimes lead to unrelenting 'moral distress'. A year on, many of us, initially scared of COVID-19, have started living our normal lives again. We are now in a post-COVID-19 era. Many churches have resumed full blast. APT 11 focuses on discussions, going forward, about our lives in the three publics – society, church, and academia - as COVID-19 loses its pandemic grip. Hopefully, these refections will help in view of the future. This will not be the end of highly infectious public health disease in the world. We struggled on various fronts at the outset of COVID-19 because we did not have contextually relevant and easily available resources on how to deal with a highly infectious disease. Who remembers any Nigerian pastor, theologian, bishop, or Catholic scholar in Nigeria who wrote or published anything for posterity after the Ebola virus pandemic in 2014? The current edition ensures that such question is not asked in the future.

Nigerian Journal of Religion and Society (JORAS), 2012

This article argues that ‘detraditionalisation’ as a response to the crisis of modernity can be s... more This article argues that ‘detraditionalisation’ as a response to the crisis of modernity can be successful if it is embarked upon interreligiously, within the Northern Nigerian context. Otherwise, the process will be considered as another instance of ‘Western/Christian’ hegemony. There are already attempts made within the Islamic tradition in this regard. Nasr Abû Zayd, for instance, argues that Islam can embrace modernity without much difficulty because the meaning of the Qur’an is not incompatible with the progress of the natural sciences. Abû Zayd is from a socially conservative context like Nigeria. He can serve as a model on how to make sense of Islam’s pathos towards Western modernity, exemplified in movements like Boko Haram, Hamas, Muslim Brotherhood, and the Taliban. He shows Muslims how to move beyond this pathos without sliding into fundamentalism or anti-religious secularism.

Abuja Journal of Philosophy and Theology (APT), 2020

This commemorative edition of the Abuja Journal of Philosophy and Theology (APT 10) marks the cen... more This commemorative edition of the Abuja Journal of Philosophy and Theology (APT 10) marks the centenary celebration of Pope Benedict XV’s Maximum Illud (MI, 1918), the foremost missionary document of the Church. MI emphasised the urgency and necessity of the propagation of the Christian faith, given that many lands and peoples had not yet heard of the gospel. One hundred years on, Pope Francis reaffirms that there is no letup in missionary activity in the world today; yet this propagation of faith is still the greatest challenge to World Christianity (Evangelii Gaudium, no. 11). The current volume contains articles from a host of scholars in church history (Valentine U. Iheanacho, Cosmas Nwosuh), theology (Paul Benedict Steffen, Francis Oborji, Marco Moerschbacher, John Paul Arowosoge, Anthony Igbekele, and Raphael Igbaoyinbo), and philosophy (Pius Akanninyene Ekpe).

Abuja Journal of Philosophy and Theology (APT), 2019

An online search on ‘foreign aid and Africa’s development’ will yield hits like ‘foreign aid is h... more An online search on ‘foreign aid and Africa’s development’ will yield hits like ‘foreign aid is hurting Africa’, ‘why foreign isn’t working in Africa’, or ‘foreign aid has helped Africa’. Some scholars argue that contrary to popular myth, foreign aid has not helped to accelerate Africa’s growth. On the contrary, it has boosted corruption, slower economic growth and poverty. Some Another school of thought claim that foreign aid has not accelerated Africa’s growth because of the double standard by the West, and its attraction for dirty money from developing countries. Yet, can one discountenance realities that overseas aid has offered lifelines to millions of Africans caught in intergenerational poverty and economic stagnation? What of several religious institutions that are offering critically needed pastoral, humanitarian and academic assistance to adherents – thanks to foreign aid and subsidies? So, has foreign aid helped Africa’s development? Has it helped the Church in Africa to be self-reliant, theologically creative and proactive? The jury is out. This edition of APT contains some interventions principally from the perspectives of philosophy and theology on the place, limits, promises, and ambivalence of foreign assistance to Africa in general, and to the Church in particular. (See more via http://aptjournal.org/latest-edition-2/)

Vademecum for Electors in Nigeria: Manual for Responsible Citizenship according to Catholic Social Teaching, 2018

As Nigeria inches towards the next general elections, members of the Catholic Theological Associa... more As Nigeria inches towards the next general elections, members of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria (CATHAN), at their annual Conference in April 2018, resolved to move beyond agonising about the current state of the nation. We determined to start organising. This document provides helpful criteria for Christians to make informed and conscientious choices when voting. For instance, what are the principal things to consider before casting one’s votes? What are things one must not consider before voting? How should people of faith, especially Christians, participate in political processes when “no political party and too few candidates share a consistent concern for human life and dignity”? This document has been designed to be a politico-theological reflection on and update of the 1979 teaching of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria’s, titled "Civic and Political Responsibility of the Christian: Joint Pastoral Letter of the Nigerian Catholic Bishops” (February 10, 1979).

APT 8 is on the theme "MIGRATION, INTERNAL DISPLACEMENT, HUMAN DIGNITY & RIGHTS". Caught between... more APT 8 is on the theme "MIGRATION, INTERNAL DISPLACEMENT,
HUMAN DIGNITY & RIGHTS". Caught between brokenness and reconfiguration of their narratives, what might migrants and internally displaced persons hope for? Can they hope to be ‘neighbours’ or they have to endure being seen as ‘leeches’ and threats? Can they hope for justice and compassionate liberality? Or they are not entitled to the goods of the earth in their new space? Should they hope for philosophers and saints to welcome them unconditionally?; Or they can only battle with politicians and demagogues contesting against enlarged ‘open spaces’? APT 8 investigates conversations about migration, internal displacement vis-à-vis human dignity, civil rights, multiculturalism, and preferential treatment. How do these issues challenge and inspire both the ‘hosts’ and the ‘guests’?

KUL Alumni News, 2019

An interview with Raymond Aina, who is a Nigerian priest and academic. He discusses his time stud... more An interview with Raymond Aina, who is a Nigerian priest and academic. He discusses his time studying at the University of Louvain in Belgium and his subsequent career in Nigeria. Aina emphasizes the importance of combining theology, life, and humor in his work. He has held various positions in Nigeria, including Academic Dean, Vice-Rector, lecturer, formator, President of CATHAN, pastor, and missionary priest.