The Niger State Government has announced a new policy requiring religious preachers to submit their sermons for approval before addressing congregations.
Governor Umaru Bago confirmed the move during an appearance on Politics on Sunday on TVC, insisting that the measure is designed to prevent harmful preaching.
Bago explained that the government will no longer allow religious messages that could threaten peace, incite unrest, or challenge the authorities.
He argued that the policy is not an attempt to suppress evangelism but a step toward regulation.
“I didn’t ban evangelism. But 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,” Bago said. He stressed that clerics cannot be allowed to spread teachings “that are anti-people, anti-government and still think it’s normal.”
The governor also revealed that security agencies will monitor preaching across the state.
He said the Department of State Services (DSS), the police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and even the military will collaborate with his administration to track religious messages.
“It’s in that direction. We want to be able to see what they are preaching, hear what they are saying. We are working together with security agencies,” Bago declared.
The policy, however, does not stop at approval of sermons. Religious leaders in Niger State must now obtain a licence before they can legally preach.
Umar Farooq, head of the Niger State Religious Affairs Department, disclosed earlier this month that preachers have only two months to comply.
“It is true, the State Government has banned preaching. Any preacher who wants to preach must secure a licence between now and the next two months,” Farooq said.
He explained that clerics must visit the government office, collect and fill out a form, and then appear before a screening panel before receiving approval to preach.
The development has already raised controversy among religious groups, activists, and rights defenders. Critics argue that the policy could be used to silence dissenting voices and control religious freedom in a secular state.
Supporters, however, claim it will help curb hate speech, religious extremism, and political manipulation from the pulpit.
The issue is expected to dominate public debate in Niger State in the coming weeks as clerics and citizens weigh the implications of a government deciding what can or cannot be preached from the altar.
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