Niger governor orders clerics to submit sermons for approval

Niger State Governor Umar Bago has directed religious preachers in the state to submit their sermons for approval under a proposed law aimed at regulating religious preaching.

Speaking during an interview on TVC’s Politics on Sunday on September 14, 2025, Governor Bago clarified the provisions of the controversial bill, stressing that the measure seeks to curb hate speech, incitement, and messages capable of fueling insecurity.

He dismissed claims that the regulation was designed to suppress religious freedom, insisting that the move would ensure sermons promote peace, unity, and social stability.

The governor stated: “I didn’t ban evangelism.

“Everyone attending the Friday sermon should bring their scriptures for review, and it’s normal. Even in Saudi Arabia, this is done. We cannot say because you have been allowed to be a cleric, you will go out and preach messages that are anti-people, anti-government, and think it’s normal.”

The governor also revealed that security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the military, would collaborate with the state government to monitor compliance.

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Earlier, the Director General of Niger State Religious Affairs, Umar Farooq, disclosed that anyone who wishes to preach in the state must obtain a licence within two months.

“All they need to do is visit our office, fill out a form, and face a screening panel before they can start preaching,” Farooq explained.

The directive has sparked debate across the state. Chief Imam of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Bashir Yankuzo, said while preaching is a divine command, the government has a role to play in preventing security threats.

“People preach to earn God’s pleasure. The government cannot dictate who preaches. But if someone is using abusive words or causing security threats, then the government can step in to maintain peace,” he said.

Similarly, the Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, Raphael Opawoye, said the body was yet to receive official communication about the regulation.

“The Christian Association of Nigeria is not aware of the ban. We shall come up with a statement when we are officially informed,” Opawoye stated.

The Star