Niger State orders Muslim preachers to submit sermons for approval

Nigeria’s Niger State, has mandated that Muslim preachers submit their sermons for government approval before delivering them publicly.

Governor Umar Bago says the policy aims to prevent inciting messages and maintain public peace, not restrict religious practice.

The directive, which excludes Christian preachers, follows a new law requiring all Muslim clerics to obtain preaching licenses through screening and certification within two months.

Some Islamic scholars have condemned the move, calling it a violation of religious freedom and urging authorities to target only those who incite violence.

The state government has begun implementing the policy in coordination with security agencies.