𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞, 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬, 𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐲𝐬

Former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola has called on Nigerians to embrace greater religious tolerance, stressing that religion should serve as a force for unity rather than division.

Fashola made the call at the annual “God in My Life” lecture organised by the Torchbearer Society of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral in Ikeja GRA, Lagos.

The former governor, who is a Muslim, said faith should remain a matter of personal conviction and should never be imposed on others.

He urged Nigerians of different religious backgrounds to respect one another, noting that peaceful coexistence was essential to national unity.

Fashola said the role of religion should be to bring people together and promote mutual understanding, rather than deepen divisions among citizens.

Speaking on faith and human existence, the former governor described God as the ultimate architect of the universe, saying divine influence could be seen in different aspects of human life.

He said family members, friends, associates, schools and workplaces could all serve as channels through which people receive guidance and direction.

Fashola also reflected on his personal journey, recalling his early connection with the Anglican Church and the role his experiences there played in his upbringing and personal development.

He recounted several near-death experiences during his younger years, attributing his survival to divine providence.

The former governor challenged the audience to reflect on the extent to which human beings truly control the course of their lives, saying the uncertainties of life should remind people of God’s continuing influence.

In his keynote address, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Revd. Olusola Odedeji, described the programme as an opportunity for reflection, testimony and gratitude.

Odedeji also commended Fashola as a role model for young people, noting that many youths attended the event to learn from his experiences.

The annual lecture brought together clergy, professionals, community leaders and young people, with speakers emphasising the importance of faith, religious tolerance and national unity.