By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The state Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Sokoto, Babangida Kurfi, addressed newsmen regarding the agency’s activities, highlighting the introduction of a new National Values Charter (NVC). This proposed social contract aims to instill national values among Nigerians, fostering national identity, unity, and cohesion.
Kurfi explained that the first component of the NVC includes the seven core promises made by the country as represented by elected leaders. Another key aspect is the seven citizen codes, which outline the commitments of citizens to the Nigerian state, emphasizing their obligations to contribute positively to the nation.
“The seven core promises are equality, democracy, entrepreneurship, peace, inclusivity, freedom, and meritocracy,” Kurfi enumerated.
He further elaborated that the seven citizen commitments reflect the dedication and responsibility individuals owe to each other and their nation. These commitments include discipline, duty of care, tolerance, leadership, accountability, environmental awareness, and resilience, collectively referred to as the “seven for seven” campaign.
“Our nation faces various challenges, including a struggling economy, insecurity in many regions, decaying infrastructure, and wavering moral values. It is crucial to inspire our citizens, remind them of our shared values and aspirations, and unite them under a common banner. This banner symbolizes our collective strength and resilience, represented by our new national anthem,” asserted the Director.
The main objective of the charter is to clearly define the pathway to nationhood, outlining the expected value orientation of both the government and citizens. Consequently, a sensitization campaign will be conducted across the state and its 23 local government areas.
