NOA Launches Nationwide Sensitization Campaign to Promote Awareness and Ethical Values On National Development
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has flagged off a nationwide sensitization campaign focusing on five key issues critical to Nigeria’s well-being, unity and development.
The campaign, launched under the theme “Promoting Awareness, Ethical Values, and National Development”, seeks to engage Nigerians on World HIV/AIDS Day, security awareness, the get-rich-quick syndrome, World Human Rights Day, and tax reform bills.
Speaking at the Press Conference in Akure on Monday 9th of December, 2024, the Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, who was represented by Dr. Ayoola Abiodun Olufemi, Director Health And Social Services emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing these issues and noted that the campaign would be executed across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and the 774 local government areas of Nigeria, employing diverse messaging platforms to ensure nationwide reach.
Highlighting World HIV/AIDS Day, Issa-Onilu reiterated the government’s commitment to combating the disease through free testing, accessible antiretroviral treatment, and partnerships with organizations to tackle stigma and discrimination. However, he called on Nigerians to actively participate by adopting responsible health behaviors and supporting those living with HIV/AIDS to halt its spread.
On security awareness, the NOA Director-General underscored the government’s efforts to strengthen security architecture through improved funding, advanced technology, and community policing initiatives. He urged citizens to play their part by remaining vigilant, reporting suspicious activities, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies. “Security begins with you and I,” he reminded attendees.
Addressing the get-rich-quick syndrome, Issa-Onilu decried the erosion of ethical values driven by economic hardship and societal pressure. He highlighted the government’s youth empowerment programs, such as the National Social Investment Program (NSIP), and stringent enforcement of anti-fraud laws by agencies like the EFCC and ICPC. The campaign will focus on discouraging criminal shortcuts to wealth, particularly during the Yuletide season.
Commemorating World Human Rights Day, the NOA emphasized the government’s dedication to safeguarding human rights. Recent strides include strengthening legal frameworks against gender-based violence and child trafficking, establishing support centers for abuse survivors, and promoting awareness of citizens’ rights and responsibilities. The campaign will also encourage Nigerians to respect others’ rights while upholding their civic duties.
On tax reforms, Issa-Onilu provided a breakdown of the four proposed tax reform bills aimed at simplifying the taxation process, reducing the burden on low-income earners, and ensuring transparency. He highlighted the government’s efforts to prevent double taxation and use tax revenues to improve essential public services like schools and hospitals, creating a more equitable system for all Nigerians.
The nationwide campaign calls for collaboration between citizens, stakeholders, and institutions to drive positive change. The NOA urged traditional leaders, religious organizations, civil society groups, and educational institutions to amplify the campaign’s messages and foster community participation.
Mallam Issa-Onilu also appealed to the media to partner with the agency in disseminating information, shaping public attitudes, and inspiring collective action. “The role of the media is indispensable in ensuring every Nigerian is informed and motivated to act,” he said.
his remarks, the NOA Director-General pointed out that achieving these goals requires a unified national effort. “Together, we can create a healthier, safer, and more ethical Nigeria,” he stated, urging all citizens to commit to building a better future for the nation.
Present at the press Conference including, State Director NOA Ondo State Directorate, Mr. James Adekunle and other top officials.