… As Clerics Urge Youth To Believe In Nigerian Project
The Lagos State Government joined the global community in commemorating the 2024 International Day for Tolerance, with a renewed call for peace, inclusivity, and unity among its diverse population.
Themed: “Tolerance Projects the Beauty in the Diversity of Human Groups”, the event, held at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa, on Saturday, featured a Walk for Tolerance from the Secretariat to Allen Junction, Ikeja, aimed at sensitising residents about the need for tolerance.
The Walk was followed by a panel discussion at the Auditorium, bringing together stakeholders from various sectors, including Muslim and Christian faith adherents, to reflect on the importance of tolerance in Lagos – a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and global diversity.
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, represented at the event by his Special Adviser on Internal Audit, Dr. (Mrs.) Oyeyemi Ayoola, highlighted the pivotal role of tolerance in fostering peace and stability, particularly in a world increasingly challenged by intolerance and discrimination.
“Lagos State stands as a shining testament to the power of tolerance. Our differences are not a source of division but a strength that enriches our shared experiences and fuels collective growth”, the Governor stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an environment where all residents, regardless of their backgrounds and religious inclinations, feel valued and respected.
The Governor also emphasised that tolerance is not a passive ideal but an active pursuit, requiring continuous effort through educational initiatives, anti-discrimination laws, and platforms for dialogue.
“Our youth must understand the importance of inclusivity and learn to navigate differences with empathy and an open mind. Lagos will continue to set an example of resilience and inclusivity, embodying the essence of tolerance in every facet of its social fabric”, he added.
Sanwo-Olu further pledged that his administration would champion advocacy programmes and initiatives that celebrate diversity, ensuring that young people learn the values of respect and understanding from an early age.
The Chairman, House Committee on Home Affairs in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Abdulkareem Jubril, also felicitated with Lagosians, noting the significance of the celebration in a city like Lagos that accommodates people from diverse backgrounds.
He advocated for peaceful coexistence among residents, irrespective of religion, tribe, or political leanings, and assured that Lagos would remain a home to tolerant individuals.
In a goodwill message, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, called on civil servants to exemplify tolerance through effective service delivery devoid of religious or cultural sentiments.
Represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resource at the Lands Bureau, Mr. Murphy Owodeyi, Agoro stressed that tolerance should be a deliberate act aimed at creating a society where everyone feels valued.
Earlier in his welcome address, Hon. Ibraheem Layode, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, assured attendees that the State Government would continue to provide support and encouragement to the youth to facilitate their contribution to developing key sectors for the benefit of citizens.
He cited examples of young leaders excelling in leadership positions, such as the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya and Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr. Tubosun Alake, as a testament to the readiness of the government to prioritise youth inclusion in governance.
The event’s lecture, titled “Restoring the Lost Faith of the Youth in the Nigerian Project and Religious Means of Goal Attainment – A Task for All Stakeholders”, featured perspectives from Professor Saheed Olurotimi Timehin of Lagos State University (LASU) from an Islamic viewpoint and Rt. Rev. Prof. Dapo Asaju of the Anglican Communion from a Christian perspective.
Both lecturers emphasised the need for a new generation of detribalized citizens to drive the change Nigeria requires. Both speakers urged religious leaders to promote peace and harmony while discouraging materialism from their sermons.
Bishop Asaju attributed the nation’s challenges to societal decay and called on Nigerians to stop blaming politicians, stressing that every citizen has a role to play in rebuilding the country.
The event climaxed with a youth discussion panel, where participants from diverse backgrounds critically examined the lecture topic and explored actionable solutions for restoring faith in Nigeria and fostering unity.
