According to Bago, preachers must submit their scriptures for review before delivering their sermons. He justified this measure by citing Saudi Arabia's similar practice. The governor emphasized that the state government is working with security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), Police, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to monitor and approve sermons.
The Director General of Niger State Religious Affairs, Umar Farooq, echoed the governor's statement, saying that anyone interested in preaching must obtain a license within two months. Farooq outlined the licensing process, which involves filling out a form and facing a screening panel.
Reactions from religious leaders have been mixed. The Chief Imam of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Bashir Yankuzo, acknowledged the government's role in maintaining peace and security but emphasized that preaching is a divine command. On the other hand, Islamic scholar Uthman Siraja condemned the ban as an infringement on religious rights.
The Christian Association of Nigeria, Niger state chapter, expressed unawareness of the ban and promised to issue a statement once officially informed.