NOA Harps On Promoting Peace, Development

By  Rhoda Godwin in Yenagoa

The National Orientation Agency, NOA, has urged all Nigerians to join the agency in creating a more ethical and united nation for the sake of peace and national development.

Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu, Director General of the NOA, made the call during a press conference in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State, as part of a nationwide sensitisation campaign on five key issues.

Mallam Issa Onilu, represented by Mr Saturday Idemudia, stated that the purpose of the conference was to educate the media as a critical stakeholder on five key issues: health security, security awareness, discouraging the get-rich-quick syndrome, global human rights, and tax awareness.

Mr Idemudia went on to say that the agency is raising awareness about key issues to positively change citizens’ attitudes and behaviours.

“The government cannot win the fight alone; citizens must behave responsibly; Nigerians should unite in our commitment to ensuring that we address these issues.”

While speaking about security awareness, he stated that the federal government prioritises security and that measures have been put in place to strengthen security systems with modern equipment, as well as to expand the surveillance system to combat criminal activities throughout the country.

In response to some journalists’ questions about discouraging the get-rich-quick syndrome, he urged citizens, particularly young people, to reject shortcuts to wealth and embrace integrity.

In his opening remarks, Bayelsa State Director Mr Edward Banigo stated that the agency is on a mission to build a better Nigeria, which is the collective responsibility of all citizens.

Mr Banigo urged the media to use their various platforms to spread the message, inspiring and motivating citizens to take responsibility.

“Our values are rapidly eroding; all stakeholders, including educational, traditional, and religious institutions, should be aware of people’s sources of income before granting them positions or chieftaincy titles.”

The press conference will focus on raising awareness, promoting ethical values, and advancing national development.