Pope Leo XIV sends video message to West Africa Youth Day

Pope Leo XIV sent a video message to participants of the first West Africa Youth Day, held from September 7 to 12, 2026.

The Pope praised the Episcopal Conferences of the region for making young people a central pastoral priority through this new event. He stated that spending time together in these ways helps youth grow in faith and learn the values of meeting and being open to others.

In his message, the Pope encouraged young people to move forward without losing hope despite various crises. He acknowledged that doubt, uncertainty, and insecurity can weigh heavily on them and disrupt their future plans.