Abuja, NIGERIA – The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has issued a powerful call to Nigeria’s religious and traditional leaders to spearhead efforts in promoting tolerance and national cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking on Wednesday, at the first triannual meeting of the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), Akume emphasized that these institutions are the primary bulwark against political manipulation and identity-based violence.
Under the theme “Religious Literacy for National Cohesion,” the SGF noted that as the current political cycle draws to a close, leaders must focus on grassroots mobilization and youth education to prevent the weaponization of misinformation.
Okay News reports that Akume highlighted the dangers of stereotypes and identity-based divisions, which he said are often exacerbated by economic and political stressors.
Beyond the immediate electoral concerns, the SGF raised an alarm over the “education crisis” fueled by insecurity. He asserted that “a child cannot learn fraternity in fear,” calling for a strengthening of the Safe Schools policy to protect children from attacks and prolonged closures. Akume advocated for a curriculum shift that prioritizes empathy and responsible citizenship, alongside a push for increased media and information literacy to combat the spread of hate speech.
