Minna, Niger State — Governor Umar Bago has announced a new directive requiring all religious preachers in the state to submit their sermons for official review and approval before delivering them to the public.
Speaking on TVC’s Politics on Sunday on September 14, 2025, Bago clarified that the policy is not a ban on evangelism or Islamic preaching but a safeguard against inflammatory messages and extremist indoctrination.
“I didn’t ban evangelism,” Bago explained. “For anyone preaching on Friday or any other day, they should bring their scriptures for review. Even in Saudi Arabia, this is normal. We cannot allow clerics to spread messages that are anti-people or anti-government and think it’s acceptable.”
Security and Oversight
The governor said the measure would be enforced in partnership with national security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the military.
“We want to be able to see what they are preaching and hear what they are saying,” he added. “This is about protecting our communities and ensuring peace.”
Preaching Licence Required
This directive follows a statewide requirement for religious preachers to obtain licences before engaging in public preaching. Clerics have been given a two-month window to comply.
The policy has sparked debate across Niger State’s religious and civic circles. Bashir Yankuzo, Chief Imam of the Federal University of Technology, and Raphael Opawoye, Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, have both voiced concerns over the government’s sweeping powers to vet religious messages.
Balancing Security and Freedom
Supporters argue the move will curb hate speech and extremist recruitment, while critics warn it could limit freedom of religion and expression. The state government maintains the regulation is essential to prevent radicalisation and maintain public order.
