Niger Govt denies banning Islamic scholars, clerics from preaching

The Niger State Bureau for Religious Affairs has clarified that it has not banned Islamic scholars and clerics from preaching in the state

The Bureau in a statement signed its Media Aide, Amb. Haruna Mustapha (Dago) said instead, it is introducing a Da’awah Registration Form and Certification to promote religious harmony and unity in the state.

“This information is incorrect and amounts to misinformation. The Agency does not have the authority to arbitrarily ban Islamic scholars or clerics unless there is a clear violation of established guidelines, ” Mustapha noted.

He stated that Islamic scholars and clerics will need to obtain the form and undergo a basic evaluation prior to certification.

The Bureau disclosed that the registration period commences from September 4 to September 30, 2025, adding that the initiative aims to ensure that preaching aligns with values of peace and mutual respect.

“For clarity, the meeting held on 4th September 2025 by the Peace and Conflict Management Committee, under the leadership of the Director General, was convened to introduce the Da’awah Registration Form and Certification Process.

“This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to prevent misunderstandings and curb the spread of misleading preaching across the state,” he added.

Furthermore, the statement maintained that the Committee has been mandated to issue guidelines to all applicants, and any violation from the guidelines may lead to withdrawal of the certificate granted.

Niger Govt denies banning Islamic scholars, clerics from preaching