By Nkechi Eze
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has called on religious and traditional leaders across Nigeria to intensify efforts in promoting tolerance, peaceful coexistence and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to an official signed statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, Akume made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during the first triannual meeting of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) held at Rockview Hotel, under the theme “Religious Literacy for National Cohesion.”
Akume said faith-based and traditional institutions must take the lead in fostering understanding among citizens and preventing manipulation capable of triggering violence before, during and after the elections. He stressed that peaceful elections are anchored on responsible leadership and community-level engagement.
“The 2027 general elections are fast approaching and NIREC, through our traditional and religious leaders, faith-based organisations and youth associations, has the moral responsibility for strengthening the network of collaboration, grassroots mobilisation, youth education, peaceful co-existence, tolerance, security and protection of lives and property in our communities,” he said.
The SGF warned against stereotypes, misinformation and identity-based divisions, noting that such factors have continued to fuel conflict and insecurity in many societies. He observed that political and economic manipulation often worsens existing tensions, making dialogue and mutual understanding critical.
Akume emphasised that Nigeria’s religious and cultural diversity makes religious literacy essential for national cohesion, adding that government’s role is to strengthen citizenship values rather than politicise religion or encourage intolerance. He also noted that while religious education exists in school curricula, greater attention must be paid to improving teaching quality, learning materials and values that promote empathy and respect.
He further raised concerns over insecurity in the education sector, warning that attacks on schools and disruptions in learning environments undermine national development. According to him, safe and uninterrupted education remains central to building a stable society, stating that “a child cannot learn fraternity in fear.”
Akume also called for stronger integration of religious literacy with media and information literacy to combat misinformation and hate speech. He referenced Nigeria’s collaboration with UNESCO in establishing the International Media and Information Literacy Institute, stressing the need for citizens to verify information before sharing it.
The SGF urged religious leaders to use their influence to promote peace, resolve conflicts and discourage the misuse of religion for violence or discrimination. He expressed optimism that NIREC’s deliberations would yield practical solutions to strengthen national unity and stability ahead of the 2027 elections.
