Abuja: The National Orientation Agency, NOA, has called on Nigerians to look beyond mere ceremonial observances and embrace a deeper sense of responsibility, patriotism, and value-driven citizenship. The Agency emphasised the need for citizens to embody the ideals and principles upon which the nation was founded, fostering unity, accountability, and collective progress.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the Director-General of NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, who made this call in his Independence Day goodwill message, urged Nigerians to use the occasion as a moment of reflection on what it truly means to be a citizen of the nation. He noted that Nigerians must continue to harness the nation’s diversity, resilience, and shared aspirations for unity, peace, and progress.
Issa-Onilu stated that ‘the country’s 65th Independence anniversary offers yet another opportunity for citizens to rededicate themselves to the core national values of discipline, integrity, self-reliance, and social justice.’ He emphasized that ‘the future of Nigeria depends not just on leaders in office, but on how every citizen chooses to uphold these values in everyday life.’
Issa-Onilu stressed the need for Nigerians to embrace this year’s celebration as a call to deepen their commitment to nation-building through civic responsibility, volunteerism, and active community participation. ‘True patriotism is demonstrated not only through symbolic acts but also in the daily conduct of citizens, by upholding national values, showing respect for national symbols, and adhering to the rule of law,’ he noted.
Issa-Onilu further encouraged institutions of learning, faith-based organisations, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to use the occasion to champion community dialogues on national identity and the preservation of cultural heritage. He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to sustained advocacy for civic values, public awareness on government programmes, and national unity.
Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, to proudly reaffirm their allegiance to the nation and work collectively towards building the Nigeria of our dreams.