By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to respect the National Anthem and other national symbols to combat the erosion of national values.
Dr. Edward Banigo, the Bayelsa Director of NOA, emphasized this during a stakeholder meeting in Yenagoa, aimed at promoting the National Values Charter.
The Charter outlines two main goals: the Nigerian Promise, which includes commitments to equality, democracy, and inclusivity, and the Citizen Code, focusing on responsibilities like discipline and respect. Banigo stressed that these principles are essential for fostering unity and civic pride among Nigerians
Recall that the meeting was part of the activities for the sensitization of the public on the National Anthem and National Value Charter.
“The Charter essentially has two goals. The first is encapsulated in the seven commitments of government to the citizens which is known as the Nigerian Promise and they are:
“Equality, Democracy, Entrepreneurship, Peace and Security, Inclusivity, Freedom and Justice, and Meritocracy. The second goal captured the seven core responsibility of the citizens to the country and to their fellow citizens and it is called Citizen Code, comprising:
“Discipline, Duty of Care, Tolerance and Respect, Leadership, Transparency, Environmental Awareness and Resilience. The charter therefore balances rights and responsibilities within our democratic context, serving as a bond between the people and government,” he said.
According to him: “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.
He said that the ultimate goal of the nation-wide sensitization campaign being carried out by the NOA on the National Anthem and the National Values Charter is to ensure that Nigerians embrace and practice it’s ideas.
On his part, the Rev. Joseph Opelema, Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Bayelsa Chapter, commended NOA for the Stakeholder’s Meeting and sensitization campaign.
He urged all citizens to give respect to one another, for culture and values to be effective in Nigeria and to practice ethical value and orientation as citizens of Nigeria.
According to him, those at the top most times don’t do the right thing, even the law enforcement agencies don’t enforce the law, in most cases.
In his remark, Mr Tari Boco, Chairman Bayelsa Non-governmental Organization Forum, commented the NOA for her initiative in sensitizing the people.
He urged parents to ensure that their children/wards do the right thing at home, because charity begins at home.
According to him, I remember those days in Port-Harcourt, at Lagos Bus stop, till now you will see passengers people will be in queue waiting for vehicles.
“Let us try and change our mentality in all we do and have value for our dear nation Nigeria for we to move forward as a country.
The Eunice Nnachi Women Advocacy Foundation, ENWAF, Program Lead, Mrs Oby Ezissi emphasized how these symbols foster unity among Nigeria’s diverse cultures.
She said, “the national pledge and anthem encourage allegiance and collective pride and promotes patriotism and cultural awareness among citizens”