Former Lagos State Governor and former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, has urged Nigerians to embrace religious tolerance and ensure that faith becomes a force for unity rather than division.
Fashola made the call on Sunday, August 23, 2026, while speaking at the “God in My Life” lecture series organised by the Torchbearers Society of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral (AVMCC), Ikeja, Lagos.
The former governor, who is a Muslim, stressed the importance of allowing individuals to practise their faith according to their personal convictions without imposing religious beliefs on others.
He encouraged Nigerians from different religious backgrounds to respect one another, describing mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence as important ingredients for national unity and development.
Fashola’s appearance at the church-organised lecture was also significant because the programme was designed as an inclusive platform for people of different faiths to reflect on the role of God in their lives, leadership and public service.
The Torchbearers Society had explained that Fashola was invited because of his experience in public service and leadership, while his Muslim faith was not considered a barrier to participating in the programme. The organisers also highlighted his family’s interfaith background as an example of mutual respect and harmony.
The “God in My Life” lecture series has previously featured prominent Nigerians, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, diplomat Christopher Kolade and retired Supreme Court Justice George Oguntade.
Fashola’s message comes amid continued calls for Nigerians to look beyond religious differences and build a society where people of different faiths can live and work together peacefully.
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