Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has restated the commitment of his administration to youth inclusion and to create platforms that will foster tolerance among the citizens of the state.

Governor Sanwo-Olu gave this assurance at the 2024 International Day for Tolerance held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium Alausa, Ikeja, with the theme: 'Tolerance Projects, the Beauty in the Diversity of Human Groups'.

Sanwo-Olu said it is imperative for youths to understand the importance of inclusivity and how to navigate differences with an open heart and mind, as his government is working to ensure all individuals in the state cohabit peacefully.

The governor, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Central Internal Audit, Mrs. Oyeyemi Ayoola, explained that tolerance requires continuous effort, educational initiatives that cultivate empathy, love that protect against hate and discrimination, stressing for platforms for dialogue that brings communities together.

He said: "As a government, we are committed to promoting initiatives that celebrate our diversity. We will continue to champion advocacy programmes that focus on inter-cultural dialogue, ensuring that the younger ones learn the values of respect and understanding from an early age.

"Furthermore, we will support community projects that bring together individuals from various backgrounds, encouraging collaboration and friendship. We recognise that building a truly tolerant society is an ongoing journey, it requires constant vigilance against divisive forces and steadfast commitment to educating our youth about the values of compassion and understanding."

"Tolerance is a cornerstone of peace and stability, especially in today's world where intolerance and discrimination are challenging the fabric of unity across the nation. As a state, we are committed to fostering an environment where all residents, regardless of backgrounds, are so valued and respected."

He reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to building a State where everyone feels valued and respected by honouring the national diversity.

In his welcome address, Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr. Ibrahim Layode, said that this year's event focuses on the need for youths to embrace positivity and optimistic mindset for them to blossom at home and global stage.

Layode, who expressed the need to strengthen the resilience amongst the youths to enable Lagos and Nigeria forge an inclusive and tolerable society, said that Lagos is aware that tolerance has become a collective project and has since been implementing numerous policies aimed at promoting harmony among the people and will continue in that direction in the coming years. 

The Commissioner, however, called for continuous engagement of the youths in the process of building the society and added that building tolerance amongst the youth requires deliberate actions as citizens must continue to work towards fostering understanding and unity.