Nigeria’s Peter Cardinal Okpaleke, along with 17 other African cardinals, is now among the 135 cardinals eligible to vote in the next papal conclave that will elect the next Pope of the Roman Catholic Church.
Cardinal Okpaleke, who was elevated to the College of Cardinals by Pope Francis in August 2022, represents a significant voice from Africa in the global Catholic hierarchy. His inclusion among the electors further highlights the growing influence of the African Church within the Vatican.
Africa’s representation in the conclave reflects the continent’s expanding Catholic population and its pivotal role in the Church’s future. The list of electors includes cardinals from across the globe, all under the age of 80, as required by papal law for participation in the papal election.
Observers note that the increasing diversity of the College of Cardinals sets the stage for a future Pope who may emerge from outside Europe, possibly from Africa or Asia, where Catholicism is rapidly growing.
The Vatican has not announced any immediate conclave, but speculation about the future direction of the Church continues amid Pope Francis’ aging and occasional health challenges.
