In a bid to reignite national pride and foster unity, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has launched a nationwide sensitisation campaign aimed at reinforcing the significance of Nigerias National Anthem and National Values Charter.
Speaking with newsmed in Ilorin, Kwara State, the Director-General of the NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, through the Kwara State Director of the agency, Olusegun Adeyemi, noted that the campaign is part of the Governments effort to address diminishing patriotism and loyalty to the nation.
He said, Many Nigerians may start asking such questions as, is this the priority, or is this the next thing? But its a priority to promote such things that bind us together and also make Nigeria a priority. Thus, its our contribution to the task of nation building, he said.
The NOA Director-General, who stressed importance of reorienting Nigerians, said that the time has come to rebuild citizens sense of duty to the nation. We must build Nigerians to build Nigeria, quoting President Bola Tinubu.
He emphasised that the campaign is focused on renewing citizens commitment to national unity, patriotism, and the values that bind the country together. The campaign will center on the National Anthem and the National Values Charter, both of which serve as pillars of the Nigerian identity,he said.
According to the NOA, the National Anthem is not just a ceremonial song but a reflection of Nigerias struggles, aspirations, and commitment to justice and prosperity.
He said, The National Values Charter outlines seven promises from the government to its citizens, including equality, peace, security, and meritocracy, while the citizens are expected to uphold values such as discipline, patriotism, and integrity.
The campaign will run from October to December 2024 and will involve various programmes at state and local levels, including town hall meetings, school outreach initiatives, and community fora.