The Niger State Government has introduced a new policy that requires all preachers to submit their sermons for approval before delivering them in public.
Governor Umar Bago announced the move during an appearance on TVC’s Politics on Sunday, saying the step is necessary to curb inciteful or harmful messages that could threaten peace.
According to him, the state is not banning evangelism but wants to ensure that religious messages do not promote division or anti-government sentiments. “Even in Saudi Arabia, this is done,” Bago noted.
Why the New Sermon Approval Policy?
Nigeria has in recent years witnessed cases where inflammatory preaching fueled violence, particularly in the North. Religious clashes, coupled with banditry and insurgency, have made states like Niger highly vulnerable.
Governor Bago stressed that the new system will allow security agencies, including the DSS, Police, Civil Defence, and the military, to monitor religious activities more closely.
“We want to be able to see what they are preaching and hear what they are saying,” he said.
In addition to sermon approval, the government is rolling out a licensing system for all clerics. Earlier this month, Umar Farooq, head of the Niger State Religious Affairs, confirmed that preachers must obtain licences within two months.
He explained that clerics would be required to fill out forms and appear before a panel for screening before they can legally preach.
“This is not to stop people from worshipping, but to ensure sermons promote peace and unity,” Farooq stated.
