Ondo State NOA Conducts Roadshow to Promote National Value Charter, Electoral Awareness
The Ondo State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), in a determined effort to embed national values within the community, organized an impactful roadshow to sensitize the public on the National Value Charter and electoral awareness ahead of Governorship election in the state.
This initiative, aimed at fostering patriotism and national unity, saw NOA officials connecting directly with the people to promote values essential for societal growth.
Led by the state director, Mr. James Adekunle, the roadshow began at the popular Adegbemile Cultural Centre and proceeded along major routes, including Oba Adesida Road, Arakale, and NEPA Market, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
During the event, messages of electoral awareness, national pride, and values outlined in the National Value Charter were communicated in various Nigerian languages and dialects, ensuring accessibility for all community members.
At several stops, the National Anthem was sung, reinforcing the importance of every Nigerian knowing it well. Director James Adekunle emphasized that while the first stanza should be sung at all events, the complete anthem should be reserved for special occasions like Democracy Day and gubernatorial or presidential inaugurations.
He also shared that the third stanza of the anthem has been designated as the new national prayer, symbolizing unity and goodwill.
Addressing the pressing issue of declining values, Mr. Adekunle expressed concern over the erosion of discipline and morality across Nigeria. To counter this, he introduced the National Value Charter’s Seven Promises to Citizens, which include commitments to Equality, Democracy, Entrepreneurship and Employment, Peace and Security, Inclusivity, Freedom and Justice, and Meritocracy. He also presented the Seven Core Citizen Codes, encouraging all Nigerians to embrace values such as Discipline, Duty of Care, Tolerance and Respect, Leadership, Transparency, Environmental Awareness, and Resilience.
As part of its educational initiatives, NOA plans to include indigenous value-based film content for children, integrate citizenship education from primary through tertiary institutions, and establish Citizens Brigades with 37,000 members – 1,000 representatives from each state and the Federal Capital Territory – to foster civic responsibility.
NOA representatives also addressed the upcoming November 16 Ondo State gubernatorial election, urging people not to sell their votes and to demonstrate integrity.
Speaking in various dialects to ensure inclusiveness, they reminded voters of the importance of participating actively in the electoral process and discouraged electoral apathy.
During his conversation with journalists, Mr. Adekunle expressed enthusiasm over the public’s positive response, particularly from market traders, stating that it reflected hope for Nigeria’s future. He encouraged community stakeholders to continue promoting the principles within the National Value Charter, which he described as a “social contract” between Nigeria and its citizens.
“We are here to encourage everyone to come out on November 16 and vote for the candidate of their choice,” Mr. Adekunle stated, reaffirming NOA’s commitment to serving as a watchdog to ensure the election is free, fair, and credible.
Several NOA officials were present at the event, including Mr. Ralph Oguntibeju, Mr. Oluwadare Adebayo, and Mrs. Adekunle.
The Aare Iyalaje/Iya-Loja of Ondo State, Chief (Mrs.) Kemi Adedapo Aishida, commended NOA for its efforts and lent her voice to the call for a peaceful and transparent election.