Faith should unite, not divide Nigerians — Fashola

Former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, has called for greater religious tolerance, saying individuals should be allowed to practise their faith without imposing their beliefs on others.

Fashola, a Muslim who said he was raised in the Anglican tradition, spoke on Sunday while delivering a lecture at the annual “God in My Life” series organised by the Torchbearer Society of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral in Ikeja, Lagos.

Reflecting on the role of faith in his life, the former governor recounted experiences from his childhood and public career which he said strengthened his belief in divine providence.

He also shared accounts of dangerous and near-death experiences, which he attributed to God’s intervention and protection.

Fashola described God as the ultimate architect of the universe and said His influence could be seen through people and institutions that shape individuals’ lives, including family members, friends, schools and workplaces.

He challenged the audience to reflect on how much control people have over the circumstances and timing 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.

The former governor also stressed the need for mutual respect among people of different religious backgrounds, saying religion should serve as a source of unity rather than division.

The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Revd. Olusola Odedeji, who served as chief host, described the event as an opportunity for reflection, testimony and gratitude.

Odedeji commended Fashola for his example of leadership and said many young people across the diocese attended the event to draw lessons from his life and experiences.

“God in my life is a call to reflection, testimonies and appreciation,” the bishop said, adding that people could “be lonely but not alone.”

The annual lecture, organised by the Torchbearer Society, brings together prominent Nigerians from different backgrounds to share personal experiences about faith and its influence on their lives, leadership and careers.

Former Nestlé Nigeria chairman, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye, who welcomed Fashola to the event, also praised his contributions to public service and the church.

The programme attracted clergy, professionals, community leaders and young people from across Lagos, with discussions centred on faith, leadership and social cohesion.