The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has called on staff of the Federal Ministry of Finance to uphold Nigeria’s national symbols as a sacred civic obligation, describing patriotism and adherence to the National Values Charter as critical pillars of national identity and unity.
Issa-Onilu made the appeal during a sensitisation and training workshop on the promotion of Nigeria’s national symbols and the National Identity Project held in Abuja.
He stressed that the NOA, as the custodian of the nation’s symbols, is committed to ensuring that Nigerians understand, respect and properly use them, noting that they represent the country’s unity, heritage and collective aspirations.
Speaking on the National Identity Project, anchored on the National Values Charter, the NOA boss explained that the initiative was introduced to strengthen national cohesion by creating a social contract that clearly outlines the responsibilities of both government and citizens. According to him, the Charter is designed to build trust, encourage accountability and promote a shared sense of national purpose.
Issa-Onilu in a statement by Bala Musa , Director Communication and Media of the agency, highlighted several initiatives already undertaken by the Agency to entrench the Charter, including a global reputation management campaign for Nigeria, partnerships to promote value-based cartoon content, and collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education to develop a national values curriculum for secondary schools. He added that discussions are also ongoing with the National Universities Commission and other education regulators to extend similar programmes to tertiary institutions.
In his remarks, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, applauded the NOA for championing programmes that strengthen Nigeria’s national identity and promote patriotism among citizens.
Oyedele announced that the Ministry would appoint National Symbols Ambassadors to drive awareness within the Ministry and would also obtain sensitisation materials from the NOA to educate staff on the National Values Charter.
He further pledged the Ministry’s support for the Agency’s programmes and called for sustained collaboration through regular sensitisation, knowledge sharing and public enlightenment on national values.
During the workshop, participants received practical guidance on the proper rendition of the National Anthem, the correct display and use of the Nigerian Flag, as well as the principles governing other national symbols and the National Values Charter, all aimed at reinforcing civic responsibility and national consciousness.
The NOA delegation included the Director of Communication and Media, Mallam Bala Musa, and the Director of Civic, Values and Democracy Education, Dr. Olukemi Afolayan, while the Ministry was represented by members of its management team and staff
