The Federal Government has approved September 16th as National Symbol Day, a move aimed at strengthening national pride and identity.
This decision was part of recommendations presented by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
The Director General of the NOA, Malam Isa Onilu, shared this during a press conference on the National Identity Project in Ibadan, where he was represented by Mrs. Adeola Adelaja.
Onilu highlighted the agency’s progress in its mission to reshape the national mindset through value orientation and attitudinal change campaigns.
He emphasized the importance of media involvement in achieving the NOA’s goals, noting that while slogans help raise awareness, they cannot alone bring about the deep transformation the country needs.
Lasting change, he explained, requires sustained action, collaboration, and a collective commitment to national ideals.
Onilu discussed the agency’s role, which goes beyond public awareness to actively promoting democracy, peace, moral conduct, and citizen support for government policies.
He proudly announced that proposals submitted by the NOA to the FEC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, had been approved.
These initiatives are expected to realign national values and encourage responsible citizenship.
He stressed that revitalizing national symbols like the flag, anthem, and pledge will play a key role in fostering national pride, and that the new National Symbol Day will serve as a reminder of their importance.
Furthermore, the integration of a National Values Charter into the school curriculum aims to ensure future generations grow up with a strong foundation in core values.
The replacement of the War Against Indiscipline Brigade with the Citizens Value Brigade reflects the agency’s focus on aligning discipline with democratic principles.
The media, Onilu said, is crucial in helping the NOA achieve its objectives. He urged media outlets to not only hold the agency accountable but also actively partner with them in driving the needed changes, knowing that a better Nigeria benefits everyone.
