By NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to embrace a renewed sense of responsibility, patriotism, and value-driven citizenship that reflect the ideals upon which the country was founded.
The Director-General of NOA, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu made the call in his Independence Day goodwill message signed by Deputy Director of Communication and Media, Mr Paul Odenyi on Wednesday in.
Issa-Onilu called on citizens to use the moment to reflect deeply on what it means to be a Nigerian, drawing strength from the nation’s diversity, resilience, and shared aspirations for unity, peace, and progress.
According to the NOA D-G, the 65th independence anniversary presents Nigerians with another opportunity to rededicate their lives to the core national values of discipline, integrity, self-reliance, and social justice.
“The future of Nigeria depends not just on leaders in office, but on how every citizen chooses to uphold these values in everyday life”
While highlighting President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to revive the economy, he urged Nigerians to embrace this year’s celebration as a call to deepen their commitment to nation-building.
He further explained that they could do such through civic responsibility, volunteerism, and active community participation.
He noted that 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.
Issa-Onilu also charged institutions of learning, faith-based organisations all stakeholders in the country to lead community conversations around the national identity, cultural preservation, and the importance of active citizenship in a democratic society.
He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to sustained advocacy for civic values, public awareness on government programmes, and national unity.
He also 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. (NAN)