From Mgbo Nnachi, Yenagoa
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has launched a nationwide campaign urging Nigerians to respect the national anthem and other symbols, emphasizing the need to restore national values such as discipline and integrity.
Dr. Edward Banigo, the Bayelsa State Director of NOA, highlighted that the Federal Executive Council recently approved a National Values Charter aimed at guiding citizens in their civic duties.
President Bola Tinubu signed a bill on May 29, 2024, reintroducing the national anthem “Nigeria, we hail thee,” which reflects the nation’s aspirations for unity amidst diversity. This anthem is seen as a call for harmony and patriotism among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
The new charter outlines citizens’ responsibilities and the government’s commitments, fostering a bond between the people and their leaders.
NOA plans to incorporate values orientation into programs like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to instill these principles in future generations..
He said: “The second goal captured the seven commandment of government to the citizens, it balances rights and responsibilities within our democratic context, serving as a bond between the people and government.
“The National Anthem has been changed to ‘Nigeria we hail thee’ which resonates with Nigerians more due to its historical context, its patriotic fervour and its embodiment of our nation’s aspirations and unity despite differences in our tribes and tongues.
“The National Orientation Agency as the custodian of the nation’s national symbols as well as the lead government agency in social mobilization, awareness creation and value orientation and in line with its statutory mandate, has designed a nation-wide campaign to sensitize Nigerians and galvanized them to embrace the National Anthem and National Values Charter.” He said.
The Director General of National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said the national values charter will be institutionalize, which will see to incorporation of values orientation as part of NYSC and ITF and reintroduction and promotion of national symbols.
