Mohammed Bago, the governor of Niger, has urged the people of the state to reject all forms of violence, embrace peace, and be accepting of all religions.

Bago made the announcement at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi Conference Centre in Minna at the fifth annual gospel music event dubbed “Shout” in 2023.

Bago, noting with concern how people have allowed themselves to be split along religious lines, described the event as a platform to propagate the gospel of oneness via music in a statement signed by Chief Press Secretary Bologi Ibrahim and sent to the governor on Saturday.

He expressed his appreciation for the idea and mentioned that it would foster unity and religious concord amongst the followers of the two main religions.

The governor said he was there to thank God and the people for helping him win the election.

The Governor pledged to turn the Trade Fair Complex Minna into a Square in order to provide a more spacious location for the “Shout” the following year, even promising the organiser of the event of the Government’s unwavering support.

He also gave the populace assurances about his administration’s dedication to putting an end to state instability.

Bago then pleaded with the populace to help the current government realise the idea of a “New Niger,” one that is gender-neutral, tribal-free, and free of religious prejudice.

Along with other senior government officials, the governor was accompanied by his deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, and chief of staff, Abdullahi Gbatamangi.

Recall that Bago visited “Shout” last year as part of his campaign, asking attendees for their votes and promising to return for Thanksgiving this year.

“Shout” is organised by Pastor PeterRock Sadiq, the resident pastor of House on the Rock in Minna.

Thousands of worshippers from both inside and outside of Nigeria attended the event, which featured several gospel performers.

Here are a few pictures from the occasion: