The Niger State Government has introduced a new policy requiring religious leaders to submit their sermons for approval before delivering them publicly.
Governor Umar Bago disclosed the development during an interview on TVC’s Politics on Sunday. He explained that the measure is aimed at curbing harmful or inciteful preaching that could undermine peace and security in the state.
“I didn’t ban evangelism,” Bago said. “For everyone going to sermon on Friday, he should bring his scriptures for review, and it’s normal. Even in Saudi Arabia, this is done. We cannot allow clerics to preach messages that are anti-people or anti-government and think it’s acceptable.”
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According to the governor, security agencies, including the DSS, Police, NSCDC, and the military, will work with the state government to enforce the directive.
The policy goes beyond sermon approval. Clerics will now be required to obtain official licenses before they can preach. Earlier this month, Umar Farooq, head of the state’s Religious Affairs office, announced that preachers must secure licenses within two months.
“All they need to do is visit our office, fill out the form, and face a panel that will screen them before they can start preaching,” Farooq explained.
The move has sparked debate among residents and religious groups.
