Msgr. Obiora Ike Inspires Global Dialogue on Sustainability and Theology at Frankfurt Conference

Frankfurt, Germany — 28 June 2025

Msgr. Obiora Ike, a renowned Nigerian theologian and President of the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice, Peace, and Caritas (CIDJAP), was a prominent voice at the international conference “Precarious Life – Sustainability and Theology,” which took place from June 26 to 28, 2025, at Goethe University Frankfurt.

The landmark event celebrated the 40th anniversary of the university’s Teaching and Research Focus on Intercultural Theology (THI) and convened scholars, clergy, and development experts from around the world. Participants came from countries including Germany, India, Chile, Japan, Ghana, DR Congo, Argentina, and Peru, engaging in thoughtful discussions on theology’s role in sustainable development, global justice, and intercultural cooperation.

Msgr. Ike, who also serves as Professor of Ethics and Intercultural Studies at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu State, and Pro-Chancellor of the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences, delivered a keynote that drew wide acclaim. He spoke passionately about the vital need for a theology that addresses the pressing issues of poverty, inequality, ecological destruction, and ethical governance.

Referencing his decades of work through CIDJAP, Msgr. Ike shared practical insights into how theology, when rooted in justice and compassion, can serve as a catalyst for peace, community empowerment, and systemic transformation. His message focused on aligning faith with social action, particularly within vulnerable and marginalised communities across Africa.

Throughout the conference, delegates explored how Christian spirituality and biblical readings can help foster a more just and peaceful global society. Topics included decolonial theology, gender equality, poverty alleviation, and the integration of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into theological education.

Msgr. Ike’s contribution was a highlight, offering a compelling blend of moral clarity, academic rigour, and real-world experience. He challenged the academic and faith communities to pursue a more courageous, ethical, and inclusive vision for theology in today’s fragile world.

The event concluded with a shared commitment among attendees to deepen intercultural theological collaboration and to harness the power of faith traditions in advancing sustainability, justice, and human dignity. Msgr. Obiora Ike’s presence and message were praised as both timely and transformative, echoing a lifetime dedicated to building a more humane and hopeful future.