The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, on Wednesday called on religious and traditional leaders across the country to deepen tolerance, strengthen grassroots mobilisation and promote peaceful coexistence as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
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 polls.
The SGF made the call in Abuja while speaking at the first triannual meeting of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) held at Rockview Hotel under the theme, “Religious Literacy for National Cohesion.”
He said that with the nation approaching the end of the current political and electoral cycle, religious and traditional leaders have a moral responsibility to strengthen collaboration, youth education, and peace-building efforts in their communities.
Akume said, “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 stressed the need to eliminate all forms of manipulation capable of creating division within communities, noting that peaceful elections begin with responsible leadership at the grassroots.
The SGF said Nigeria’s religious and cultural diversity makes tolerance and religious literacy essential for national cohesion, stressing that understanding one another’s beliefs and practices remains key to building trust and sustaining peace.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
