By Our Reporter
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has called on religious and traditional leaders across Nigeria to take proactive steps in promoting tolerance, grassroots mobilisation and peaceful coexistence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Akume made the appeal on Wednesday in Abuja at the first triannual meeting of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council, held at Rockview Hotel under the theme, “Religious Literacy for National Cohesion.”
He urged faith-based and traditional institutions to lead efforts in fostering unity and preventing manipulation capable of inciting violence before, during and after the elections.
According to the statement signed by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, released on the official X handle of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the 2027 general elections are fast approaching and NIREC, through our traditional and religious leaders, faith-based organisations and youth associations, has the moral responsibility for strengthening collaboration, grassroots mobilisation, youth education, peaceful co-existence, tolerance, security and protection of lives and property,” Akume said.
The SGF emphasised that peaceful elections begin with responsible leadership at the grassroots, warning against divisive tendencies and manipulation that could fracture communities.
Highlighting Nigeria’s diverse religious and cultural landscape, Akume stressed that religious literacy and mutual understanding remain critical to building trust and sustaining national peace. He noted that NIREC’s role in promoting dialogue and coexistence has become increasingly vital amid growing global and local tensions.
Akume warned that stereotypes, misinformation, insecurity and identity-based divisions continue to fuel conflicts, often worsened by political and economic interests.
“The world today continues to encounter formidable challenges capable of generating conflicts, driven by lack of understanding, stereotypes, ineffective communication and the weaponisation of identity,” he said.
He maintained that government’s role is not to politicise religion but to promote responsible citizenship, understanding and unity among Nigerians.
On education, Akume called for improved teaching of religious studies through better-trained teachers, quality learning materials and value-based instruction that promotes empathy and respect.
He also raised concerns over insecurity in the education sector, warning that attacks on schools and prolonged closures are deepening the country’s learning crisis.
“A child cannot learn fraternity in fear; a nation cannot preach literacy while schools are under threat,” he said, urging stronger implementation of safe school policies.
The SGF further stressed the importance of combining religious literacy with media and information literacy to counter misinformation and hate speech. He referenced Nigeria’s collaboration with the UNESCO in establishing the International Media and Information Literacy Institute, aimed at equipping citizens with skills to verify information and reject divisive narratives.
Akume called on schools, media organisations, universities, faith communities and traditional institutions to work together in nurturing a generation of Nigerians grounded in patriotism, humility and peaceful coexistence.
He urged religious leaders to act as the conscience of society by promoting truth, resolving conflicts and discouraging hatred, warning against the misuse of religion to justify violence and discrimination.
Akume disclosed that the Federal Government has already set in motion measures to support religious and traditional institutions in maintaining peace ahead of the elections, adding that further stakeholder engagement would follow the council’s recommendations.
He expressed optimism that deliberations at the NIREC meeting would yield practical solutions to strengthen national cohesion as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 polls.
