Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged religious leaders to use their moral influence to promote national unity, peace, and non-violent democratic participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Idris made the call in Abuja while speaking at the grand finale of the 2026 Charismatic Bishops Conference and the International Communion of Charismatic Bishops, Bishops, and Apostles.
The minister said Nigeria’s path to sustainable prosperity required a collective effort involving government, civil society, religious institutions, and citizens.
He noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had laid important economic foundations, including the growth of the country’s foreign reserves to more than $54 billion—the highest level recorded in about 18 years.
According to Idris, pastors, bishops, clerics, and other faith leaders occupy a unique position in shaping public opinion and influencing social behaviour.
He urged them to use their platforms to discourage ethnic and religious prejudice, promote truth, and encourage responsible citizenship.
“Religious platforms must be spaces for truth, tolerance, peace, and responsible citizenship—not instruments for division,” he said.
The minister also highlighted recent security gains, stating that approximately 1,000 terrorists, including some of their leaders, were eliminated during the first quarter of 2026.
He added that coordinated, intelligence-led operations led to the rescue of 308 abducted Nigerians in August.
As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, Idris warned Nigerians against turning political differences into violence, hate speech, or persecution. He called on religious leaders to preach peaceful participation and respect for democratic institutions.
He further cautioned against the misuse of social media to spread fake news, bigotry, and inflammatory content, urging citizens to verify information before sharing it.
“Our Constitution guarantees every citizen the freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. No Nigerian should be attacked, threatened, or discriminated against because of his or her faith,” Idris said.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to economic reform, institutional strengthening, infrastructure development, and investment in human capital.
However, he stressed that building a peaceful and secure Nigeria remained a shared national responsibility.
Idris commended the leadership of the Charismatic Bishops Conference for its prayers, community service, and continued support for national development.
