Religion Should Unite Nigerians, Not Divide Them — Fashola

Former Lagos State Governor and former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has urged Nigerians to promote religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, stressing that religion should bring people together rather than create division.

Fashola made the call on Sunday while speaking 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 religious faith should remain a personal conviction and should not be forced on others.

He encouraged Nigerians from different religious backgrounds to respect one another, saying mutual understanding and tolerance were essential to national unity.

“Religion should unite rather than divide people,” Fashola said, while calling for greater respect among followers of different faiths.

Speaking about the role of God in human life, Fashola described God as the ultimate architect of the universe.

He said divine influence could be seen through various aspects of people’s lives, including family, friends, schools, workplaces and other relationships that provide guidance and direction.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Fashola recalled his early upbringing in the Anglican Church and explained how his experiences contributed to his development.

He also recounted several dangerous and near-death experiences during his younger years, which he attributed partly to youthful recklessness and ultimately to divine protection.

He challenged the audience to consider how much control human beings truly have over the course of their lives.

“If God gave us the opportunity to arrange our life’s journey by ourselves, can any one of us decide which phase of our life should come first?” he asked.

Fashola said the uncertainties and unexpected experiences of life should encourage people to recognise the continuing influence of God in their lives.

The keynote speaker and Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Revd. Olusola Odedeji, described the annual programme as an avenue for reflection, testimonies and gratitude.

He said, “God in my life is a call to reflection, testimonies and appreciation,” adding that people could experience loneliness without necessarily being alone.

Odedeji also praised Fashola for serving as a role model to young Nigerians.

He noted that many young people from across the diocese attended the event to hear about Fashola’s experiences and draw inspiration from his life.

Earlier, a member of the Torchbearer Society and former Chairman of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye, commended Fashola for his achievements in public service and his contributions to Lagos State and the church during his tenure as governor.

The annual lecture brings together prominent Nigerians from different backgrounds to share experiences on faith, leadership, public service, business and other aspects of life.

The event was attended by clergymen, professionals, community leaders and young people, with speakers emphasising the importance of religious tolerance, faith, peaceful coexistence and national unity.

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