The Niger State government has announced a new regulation requiring all religious leaders to obtain a license before preaching publicly within the state. Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago has set a two-month window for clerics to comply with this directive, stirring debate across religious communities.
Bashir Yankuzo, chief imam at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, expressed concerns, saying the government cannot fully prevent preaching but can regulate it if public safety is at risk. “The government cannot decide who can preach freely, but if preaching activities threaten security, regulation is understandable,” he said.
Raphael Opawoye, secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, stated that his group was unaware of the new requirement. According to Umar Farooq, Director-General of the Niger State Religious Affairs Agency, preachers must now obtain application forms from the agency. Once submitted, applicants will undergo a screening process before being authorized to conduct public sermons.
The measure follows similar regulations in other states, such as Anambra, where loud preaching in markets was restricted to reduce noise and public disturbances. Violations in Niger State may attract fines and other sanctions as part of the government’s effort to enforce security and order in public spaces.
This move has drawn criticism from civil society organizations, including Amnesty International, which described it as potentially overreaching. Despite the controversy, Governor Bago and his administration argue the licensing system is necessary to prevent the misuse of public spaces and regulate public gatherings for security reasons.
In a separate note, the Niger State chapter of the APC endorsed President Tinubu as the sole candidate of the party. Governor Bago was seen celebrating at the event in Minna, the state capital.
Summary & Commentary
The Niger State preacher licensing directive reflects the government’s attempt to balance religious freedom with public safety and order. While the policy aims to regulate public preaching and prevent security threats, it raises questions about religious liberty and administrative overreach. Civil society reactions suggest that clear guidelines and transparent enforcement will be critical to avoid alienating religious communities.
This development may also set a precedent for other states considering similar measures. Observers note that while regulation of public gatherings is not uncommon, imposing licensing requirements on religious preaching is a sensitive move that requires careful communication and stakeholder engagement.
