Abstract

Religious intolerance continues to pose a significant challenge in Nigeria, contributing to social unrest, violence and divisions among adherents of different faiths. This study investigates the relevance of Pantaleon Iroegbu’s concept of God to the promotion of religious tolerance in Nigeria. Grounded in his Uwa ontology, Iroegbu presents God as the ultimate source, foundation and sustaining principle of all existence. Using expository and hermeneutical methods, the study examines his understanding of God and evaluates its significance for interreligious relations within Nigeria’s pluralistic religious environment. It also considers conceptions of God from dominant religions in Nigeria namely, Christianity, Islam and African Traditional Religion to identify points of similarity and difference. The study finds that Iroegbu’s conception of God stresses the unity and interconnectedness of all beings, since all reality derives from the same Divine source. This perspective provides a philosophical basis for respect, dialogue and peaceful coexistence among followers of different religions. The research further reveals that religious intolerance is often fueled by exclusivist attitudes, misconceptions and a failure to recognize shared spiritual and moral values. By portraying God as the transcendent ground of all existence, Iroegbu’s philosophy encourages greater understanding, acceptance and cooperation across religious boundaries. The study concludes that Iroegbu’s concept of God offers a valuable framework for advancing religious tolerance in Nigeria. It recommends the promotion of Interfaith dialogue, philosophical reflection and common ethical values as practical strategies for fostering unity and peaceful coexistence.