A movement, not a moment
The Gary S. Maxey Network is a Christian interdenominational movement, officially inaugurated in Lagos, Nigeria in August 2026 — named in honor of Rev. Prof. Gary S. Maxey, founder of the West Africa Theological Seminary (WATS).
“Urging the African Church back to its biblical and theological center, and calling believers to purity of heart and Christ‑like holy living.”
As declared on the Network's inauguration banner, signed by its Conveners — Rev. Prof. Gary & Dr. Emma Lou Maxey — Lagos, August 2026.
Four convictions behind the Network
A call back to biblical Christianity
The Network emerged from deep concern for the contemporary spiritual climate of the Church — a call to Christianity grounded in Scripture, holiness, integrity, and genuine spiritual transformation, rather than outward religious performance.
Addressing doctrinal and moral decline
At the Network's launch, Prof. Maxey spoke candidly of the Nigerian Church's drift toward a human-centered, prosperity-focused gospel — and called for renewed surrender to Christ, freedom from sin, and purity of heart.
Raising a new generation of leaders
The Church's future depends on leaders who are properly trained, spiritually grounded, and accountable — not merely gifted communicators. The Network's concern extends beyond evangelism to the discipleship that must follow it.
Preserving Nigeria's evangelical heritage
Tracing a legacy through pioneers such as Joseph Ayo Babalola and Josiah Akindayomi, the Network's leadership stresses that earlier sacrifices cannot sustain today's generation without active stewardship — the promise of revival must be fought for, or it will be extinguished.
Focus areas
Sound Theological Education
Grounding believers and leaders alike in rigorous, biblically faithful teaching.
Spiritual & Ethical Renewal
Calling the Church to holiness, integrity, and Christlikeness over religious performance.
Cross-Cultural Mission
Carrying forward a missionary passion that has shaped the Network's founding vision.
Multiplying Leaders
Training leaders who go on to disciple others — not simply gather converts.
Rooted in WATS, carried forward together
The Network is closely associated with the legacy of the West Africa Theological Seminary through Prof. Maxey's leadership and the involvement of WATS alumni in its founding and direction. As WATS Provost Pastor Olufemi Emmanuel affirmed at the launch: “This is WATS' vision. This is WATS' mandate… and this is the vision we must now carry forward to renew, reignite, and raise for the future.”
The two organizations remain distinct, working in active partnership toward a shared calling.
