A world churches delegation has asked Nigeria's religious leaders to encourage different ethnic and faith groups to promote lasting peace in violence-affected communities.

Nigeria's acting president, Goodluck Jonathan, a Christian, has been sworn in as the country's president following the death of his Muslim predecessor, Umaru Yar'Adua.

The progress of a bill in Nigeria that that would impose brutal penalties on shows of affection between lesbian and gay people has been halted in the face of national elections in the country.