NOA Ogun Flags off Nationwide Sensitization Campaign on National Anthem, National Value Charter

The National Orientation Agency, Ogun State Directorate, Wednesday, in Abeokuta, flags off the Agency’s National Identity Project (NIP) programme with Press Conference on Nationwide Sensitization Campaign on the National Anthem and National Value Charter

Addressing the media at the Press Conference to herald the programme in Ogun State, the State Director, Mrs. Funke Salako, said the Agency drew its inspiration for the project from Mr. President‘s declaration “we must build Nigerians to build Nigeria”

She said in pursuit of this novel declaration from the President, National Orientation Agency, Nigeria., is embarking on a nationwide campaign on the National Anthem and the National Value Charter, an increasingly interconnected world, the elements of which serves as the foundation of our unity, pride, and purpose as a nation.

She describes the National Identity as not merely a set of symbols or a collection of historical events; it is the essence of who we are as a people encompassing our shared language, traditions, and values, and forming the bedrock of our cultural heritage. Our national identity, she added, fosters a sense of belonging, allowing us to connect deeply with one another and to celebrate our diversity that enriches our nation, making it vibrant and resilient.

Mrs. Salako further posited that the National Identity Project is the systemic reintroduction of the positive values we always had as a people and to reecho the messages to the leaders and the led that as we embrace our identities, we must also recognize the challenges we face world over as a result of globalization, migration, and technological advancements which sometimes dilute our cultural ties hence making it imperative we actively engage in preserving and promoting our national identity, ensuring that future generations inherit a rich and meaningful legacy for a better nation

On the National Value Charter, the NOA Ogun boss said the charter is not just a document but a commitment to uphold and promote the core values that define our nation. It articulates principles such as respect, integrity, inclusivity, and responsibility which if adhered to will reinforce our national identity and create a framework for collaboration and understanding among our citizens, therefore the Charter serves as a guide for individuals, institutions, and government bodies, encouraging us to align our actions with the ideals we cherish and empowers citizens to actively participate in nation-building, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility toward our collective future.

She highlighted the National Value Charter as based on 7 Citizens codes and the 7 Nigerian promises. The citizens codes, she mentioned, are the expectation of the government from the citizens which includes Discipline, Tolerance and Respect, Duty of Care, Environmental Awareness, Resilience, Leadership, Transparency while the 7 Nigerian promise the citizenry likewise expects from the government are

Equality, Inclusivity, Entrepreneurship and Employment, Democracy, Peace and Security, Freedom and Justice, and Meritocracy.

She said part of what the Federal Government intended to do is the creation of institutions that will be the support system for this project, and will lead to the creation of 37,000 Citizens Brigade members across the country, which will translate to 1000 Citizen Brigade per state including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with adequate representation in primary and secondary schools in the country fashioned after the Boys Brigade with a “Catch them Young and Train them on National Values” Agenda

She disclosed that the other half of the Agency’s campaign, is the promotion and popularisation of the National Anthem with the intent to encourage everyone to learn and reflect on the Anthem. And in carrying on this campaign, the NOA will be engaging in a series of activities such as Town hall meetings, stakeholders engagement, roadshows, social media campaigns, conventional media appearances, etc, till December 2024.

“As we reflect on our national identity and the principles outlined in the National Value Charter, let us remember that each of us plays a crucial role. We must embody these values in our daily lives, promoting unity, respect, and compassion in our communities. By doing so, we not only honor our past but also pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

In conclusion, let us stand together, embracing our national identity and upholding the values enshrined in the National Value Charter. Together, we can build a nation that is not only proud of its heritage but also committed to fostering a harmonious and prosperous society for all”, she said.

The Press Conference was attended by the General Manager, Radio Nigeria Paramount FM 94.5, Mr. Akintola Akinyinka and the press crew from Galaxy Television, Ogun State Television, OGTV, Radio Nigeria Paramount FM 94.5, Splash FM 106.7, Wise FM 87.9, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Fresh FM 88.5, Vanguard Newspaper, and Salient News Online Newspaper and Ogun Broadcasting Corporation OGBC 90.5FM

More pictures below: