By Al-Kadriyar Abdullahi
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has reaffirmed the importance of values-driven citizen engagement as a key strategy for addressing insecurity and strengthening national unity across Nigeria.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Director of Communication and Media, Bala Musa, following the Youth and Security Strategic Dialogue held in Bauchi State.
The Director-General of the Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, who was represented at the event by the Zonal Director, North-East Zone, Nura Kobi, stress that sustainable national development depends not only on government policies but also on the attitudes and responsibilities of citizens.
“Security is a shared responsibility. When citizens are vigilant, responsible, and actively engaged, communities become safer and more resilient,” the Director-General stated.
Values as a framework for national transformation
The Agency highlighted the National Values Charter (NVC) as a strategic framework for promoting national transformation and strengthening mutual accountability between government and citizens.
According to the Director-General, the initiative provides a practical approach to tackling insecurity, corruption, youth restiveness, and misinformation through the promotion of discipline, accountability, respect for diversity, rule of law, and active civic participation.
“If both government and citizens fulfill their responsibilities, Nigeria will achieve its full potential,” he added.
Strengthening civic education and national integration
The NOA reaffirmed its mandate to promote public enlightenment, civic education, and national integration, noting that effective communication remains central to achieving national policy goals.
The Agency says it ongoing interventions focus on promoting shared values, countering misinformation, enhancing citizen participation, and building trust between communities and government institutions.
It adds that this approach positions the Agency as a preventive mechanism within the national security framework by addressing misinformation, social disengagement, and negative behavioural trends.
Youth engagement and responsible citizenship
The Agency also expresses concern over the spread of misinformation and the growing “get-rich-quick” mentality among some young Nigerians, warning that such trends threaten social stability and national cohesion.
It urge young people to verify information before sharing, pursue skills development, and engage in lawful economic activities that contribute to national development.
“The spread of false information undermines peace and stability.
Responsible communication is a fundamental civic obligation,” the Director-General emphasized.
Enhancing community-security collaboration
The dialogue further underscored the need for stronger collaboration between citizens and security agencies.
The Agency calls for deeper community-based engagement to improve early warning systems, strengthen community safety structures, and enhance conflict prevention mechanisms.
Call for collective responsibility
The National Orientation Agency called on Nigerians to support national development by embracing values that promote peace, unity, integrity, and accountability across ethnic, religious, and socio-cultural divides.
It reaffirmed its commitment to building a value-driven society where citizens play active roles in governance, peacebuilding, and national progress.
