As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence Anniversary, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on citizens to move beyond ceremonial celebrations and embrace a renewed sense of responsibility, patriotism, and value-driven citizenship.
NOA Director-General , Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, in a goodwill message, urged Nigerians 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.
Issa-Onilu emphasized that Nigeria’s future depend not just on leaders in office but on how every citizen choose to uphold core national values such as discipline, integrity, self-reliance, and social justice. He highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to revive the economy and encouraged Nigerians to deepen their commitment to nation-building through civic responsibility, volunteerism, and active community participation.
The NOA Director-General 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. He charged institutions of learning, faith-based organizations, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to lead community conversations around national identity, cultural preservation, and the importance of active citizenship in a democratic society.
Issa-Onilu reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to sustained advocacy for civic values, public awareness on government programs, and national unity. He 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 their dreams.
