Niger Govt Clarifies Sermon Approval Policy

Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has dismissed claims that his administration has outlawed religious preaching, stressing that the government’s new directive is only to regulate sermons in order to safeguard peace and security.

Recently, the state government announced a policy that sparked outrage across the state and beyond.

The directive requires that, henceforth, any preacher , from any faith or religion , must submit an outline of their sermon to the government for vetting and approval before delivery.

Officials explained that the measure is to check inciting messages capable of sparking unrest. Enforcement will involve the DSS, Police, Civil Defence Corps and the military.

Governor Bago said the intention is not to stifle evangelism or worship, but to prevent religious extremism.

“We have not banned preaching in Niger. What we are saying is that clerics must be licensed, and sermons vetted, so they do not endanger public peace,” he stated.

Some Islamic scholars see the move as a safeguard against hate speech, but others , including Christian leaders argue it infringes on religious freedom.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state said it has not received formal notice of the policy and will respond once officially briefed.

Despite the defence by government, concerns remain among critics who insist the directive could violate constitutional rights to freedom of worship and expression, and might open the door to undue state interference in religious practice.