About Journal
West African Journal of Religion and Development Studies (WAJRDS) is the official and open access journal of the prestigious West African Advanced School of Theology Owerri Nigeria. As a peer-reviewed scholarly journal, WAJRDS publishes independently peer-reviewed cutting-edge research articles on broad religious, development, social science, and other interdisciplinary fields aimed at promoting sound academic scholarship in the international arena. The journal also publishes book reviews within the aforementioned scope. The Editorial Board accepts and considers scholarly articles for possible publication which follow high ethical standards and well-defined methodology and conclusion in British English. The opinions and views expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board. WAJRDS publication appears bi-annually. Also see the following pages below for further information about our journal.
Aim and Scope
The West African Journal of Religion & Development Studies aims to explore how religion and faith shape development in West Africa and beyond. It provides a platform for scholars, researchers, and faith-based practitioners to share knowledge, ideas, and findings on issues related to religion, ethics, peacebuilding, social justice, and community development. The journal covers topics in theology, biblical studies, African traditional religion, interfaith dialogue, education, gender, leadership, and the role of religion in economic, political, and social progress. WAJRDS welcomes well-researched articles that offer practical and theoretical insights. It encourages both academic and faith-based approaches that promote development, peace, and transformation in society. The journal is open to contributors from diverse religious and academic backgrounds, with a special focus on African realities. It is published periodically by our seminary as part of its mission to shape minds and serve the community.
Author’s Guidelines
Authors are invited to submit original and well-researched articles related to religion and development. All submissions must be written in clear British English. Articles should not exceed 8,000 words in total, including references and footnotes. Each article must include an abstract of not more than 250 words, summarising the purpose, method, and findings of the study. Keywords (between 4 and 6) should follow the abstract. Manuscripts must be typed in 12-point Times New Roman font, double-spaced, and submitted in Microsoft Word format. Referencing must follow the APA 7th edition style both in-text and in the reference list. Articles must be the original work of the author and not under review elsewhere. All submissions will go through peer review before acceptance. Authors are also responsible for ensuring proper grammar, clarity, and accuracy in their work. Submissions should be sent to the journal’s editorial email.
Criteria for Accepting and Rejecting Articles
Articles submitted to WAJRDS will be accepted or rejected based on the following clear criteria:
- 1. Relevance: The topic must relate to religion and development, especially in the African context.
- 2. Originality: The work must be the author’s original writing and not copied from others or already published elsewhere.
- 3. Quality of Research: The article must show good research methods, clear arguments, and sound conclusions.
- 4. Clarity and Language: The article must be clearly written in correct British English, free from grammar and spelling errors.
- 5. Structure and Format: The article must follow the journal’s guidelines, including APA 7th edition referencing and the word limit of 8,000 words. Reasons for Rejection: Articles will be rejected if they are off-topic, poorly written, plagiarised, not properly referenced, or lack academic quality.