*Urges Religious Institutions to Prioritize Youth Moral Training By Awwal Umar Kontagora Niger State Governor, Umaru Mohammed Ba...
*Urges Religious Institutions to Prioritize Youth Moral Training
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
Niger State Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago, has attributed the increasing cases of thuggery and youth restiveness in the state to inadequate moral upbringing, urging parents and religious institutions to play a more active role in shaping young lives.
The governor made the remarks on Saturday while declaring open the annual conference of the Nupe Christian Fellowship International (NCFI) at the Cathedral Church of St. John in Bida, Niger State.
He emphasized that parental guidance and proper moral education remain key solutions to curbing crimes, thuggery, and unrest among youths.
Represented by Hon. Jonathan Vatsa, a former Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism and an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Governor Bago stressed that religious bodies have a critical responsibility in reinforcing moral values among young people.
The governor disclosed that his administration reintroduced Christian Religious Studies (CRS) and Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) in public schools to promote ethical training and instill the fear of God in students.
“We recognize the importance of religious education in molding the character of our youth. The absence of proper moral upbringing is a major factor in the rise of social vices,” he said.
Beyond educational reforms, Bago pledged his government’s commitment to tackling thuggery and unrest, stating, “No responsible government will fold its arms and allow miscreants to terrorize innocent citizens.”
He assured the Christian community in Niger State of equitable treatment, emphasizing the state’s secular status.
“Niger State is a secular state, and we will ensure fairness to all religious adherents. The reintroduction of CRS and IRS in schools reflects our commitment to justice and equity,” he added.
The governor also announced a donation of ₦10 million to the Nupe Christian Fellowship International.
Earlier, NCFI President Jacob G. Tsado commended Governor Bago for the state’s infrastructural development over the past two years, describing his leadership as exemplary.
He noted that the annual NCFI conference fosters unity among Nupe Christians and promotes spiritual and socio-economic revival.
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