NOA begins campaign on national values charter for prosperous Nigeria

The National Orientation Agency (NOA), an Agency under the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, has commenced a sensitization campaign on the national values charter to promote a united and prosperous Nigeria based on respect for tolerance, understanding, democracy and good governance.

The National Values Charter is divided into two broad sections comprising the Nigerian Promise and the Citizen’s Code. The Nigerian Promise consists of promises made by the country and represented by all elected and appointed leaders which are equality, democracy, peace and security, inclusivity, employment and entrepreneurship among others.

Similarly, the Citizen’s Code comprises a commitment to the Nigerian states and fellow citizens which includes discipline, the duty of care, tolerance and respect, leadership and transparency as well as environmental awareness among others.

Tessy Nnalue, director of orientation and Behaviour Modification at the Agency stated this during the commencement of the sensitization campaign in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, adding that the national values charter represents a blueprint for a united, prosperous and harmonious Nigeria.

Nnalue, who represented the Director-General of the Agency, Lanre Issa Onilu, said, “The National Values Charter also touched on our reverse to the old National Anthem ‘Nigeria We Hail Thee’ which she said is a symbol of our shared identity and heritage. Its lyrics remind us of a duty to promote peace, unity and progress.’’

According to her, NOA will sensitise Nigerians to the National Values Charter by promoting civic education and awareness, engaging stakeholders in value orientation, and fostering partnerships for national development.

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Nnalue called on Nigerians to join in ’embracing our diversity and promote tolerance, respect the dignity and worth of every individual and uphold democracy and the rule of law.’

Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, the Akwa Ibom State Director of the Agency, said the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu had initiated several policies and programmes to address the country’s socioeconomic challenges, explaining that the introduction of the student loans scheme, the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund and the removal of fuel subsidy were some of the economic initiatives to ensure economic reforms and growth.

He also identified the presidential compressed natural gas initiative, the establishment of conversion centres to promote the use of compressed natural gas, and micro-economic reforms focusing on improved investment, revenue generation and economic growth as some of the other reforms.

According to him, “the removal of fuel subsidy has made it possible for funds to be directed towards critical sectors like healthcare, education and infrastructure and security while the unification of the foreign exchange market to reflect the actual value of the Naira has boosted investors confidence.”

He said the Federal Government had committed N50 billion as conditional grants to nano businesses nationwide to empower one million small businesses and foster entrepreneurship and economic growth.

He also noted, “N100 billion had been made available for the CNG rollout programme to promote the use of compressed natural gas, reducing reliance on traditional fuels and enhancing environmental sustainability.”