Niger State Governor Umar Bago, a Muslim, ignited mixed reactions after proclaiming himself “born again” during a visit to Living Faith Church in Minna on May 4. The announcement, made at the church’s 44th-anniversary service, was accompanied by a ₦50 million donation and a pledge to construct a road on the premises.  

Public Reactions Divide

Critics, including social media users like Chief CeeKee, argued the move mocked Christian traditions, while supporters such as Beee hailed it as a step toward unity. Cultural anthropologist Okoye Chukwuebuka warned such declarations risked inciting religious tensions, stressing that formal conversion rites in major faiths cannot be bypassed through mere statements.  

Agricultural Focus and Recent Events

Bago, dubbed the “farmers’ governor,” has prioritized agricultural development to engage youths and curb insecurity. In a related effort, President Tinubu secured a $2.5 billion livestock sector investment (dated December 2025) for Niger’s Borgu region. The governor also mourned the December 2024 death of Katcha LGA chairman Danlami Saku in a road accident, calling it a profound loss.  

The incident highlights the delicate interplay of religion, leadership, and public perception in Nigeria’s diverse sociopolitical landscape.