National Orientation Agency kicks off nationwide campaigns on government programs, flood, disaster preparedness & security awareness, wants Nigerians to ignite new spirit of patriotism

 

By Clem Ezeolisah 

Nigeria stands at a defining moment, our democracy thrives only when citizens are informed and actively engaged – Mallam Onilu

 

 

The federal government through the National Orientation Agency has announced the commencement of the 5- theme massive nationwide campaign to get the people adequately informed of the various programs initiated by the government for the development of nation and the safety and security of the people.

 

The objective of “the two weeks mass campaign is to ignite a new spirit of patriotism, vigilance, unity and responsibility that will carry us to a safer, stronger and more united Nigeria”.

 

According to the NOA Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa -Onilu during the press conference to announce the start of the campaign, Wednesday in Abuja, “Today marks the beginning of a two- week nationwide civic engagement drive across the 36 states and FCT and across the 774 local government areas in the nation

 

“This is not just not another campaign, it is a coordinated national awakening that touches the very heart of our identity, safety, values and development.”

 

The campaign, to commence next Wednesday, targets five areas such as national enlightenment on government policies, programs and activities, flood mitigation and disaster preparedness and national security.

 

Other areas include national values reorientation for students against extreme sign- out practices and national identity project and national symbols.

 

The Director General stated that the campaigns would involve press conferences in all the 36 states and FCT, grassroots outreach will take place in markets, schools, motor parks, religious institutions and community halls in 774 LGAs.

 

“IEC materials in English and major Nigerian languages will be distributed. Radio, television  and social media campaigns will run daily to reach Nigerians wherever they are. Feedback channels including toll free lines and social media platforms are to be activated for the citizen engagements.”

 

Mallam Onilu called on all Nigerians to be part the campaign as “This campaign will succeed only if you are part of it, seek information from credible sources, prepared ahead of emergencies and work with security agencies to keep our communities safe”.

The DG said about 4000 staff of the agency have been fully mobilized to ensure that the length and breadth of the country are fully covered during this campaign.