NOA to reinvigorate spirit of unity, patriotism through National Values Charter, anthem campaign

By Bushrah Yusuf-Badmus

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has said its nationwide campaign on the National Anthem and National Values Charter, was to reinvigorate the spirit of unity, patriotism and national pride across Nigeria.

The Director, Kwara NOA Directorate, Mr Segun Adeyemi while addressing a news conference on Tuesday said the campaign initiative was designed to further unite and reorioent the nation.

He said it was through concerted sensitisation and reorientation efforts that the national commitment can be renewed and strengthen Nigeria’s identity as one people bounded by a common destiny.

”The National Anthem is not just a ceremonial song, it embodies the soul and spirit of the Nigerian nation.

”Alonside the anthem, the National Values Charter enshrines the fundamental principles that should guide our conduct as citizens.

”These values include integrity, patriotism, selflessness and a sense of duty to the nation.

”Sadly the values have been overshadowed by the challenges of daily survival and the pursuit of personal gain at the expense of national interest.

”By embracing the values enshrined in our national anthem and the national values charter, we can foster a spirit of unity, patriotism and collective responsibility for a more prosperous nation,” he said.

The NOA boss added that the agency will work with educational institutions to integrate the National Values Charter into the school curriculum and daily recitations of the national anthem, fostering a sense of pride and patriotism from an early age.

Mr Adeyemi added that the National Values Charter comprised of the Nigerian Promise (critical responsibilities of the government and its officials) and the Citizen’s code (key values and obligations of citizens).

The NOA boss said the charter has already been approved by the Federal Executive Council.

He called on active participation of religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the private sector and the media.

Mr Adeyemi said the task of reorienting a nation is not the one that the government can undertake alone , but the concerted efforts of every sector of the society.

The NOA Director General, Mallam Issa Onilu said NOA is strategically repositioned to perform better than before with activities, training and retraining of staff.

Onilu represented by the Director of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Oluyemi Ayoola urged Nigerians to be good followers and be patriotic.

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