Bamun Nii-Veror
The National Values Charter when fully launched will serve as a social contract between the Nigerian government and its citizens, said the Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu.
Speaking during the One-day Workshop on Civic Responsibility and National Values for Voluntary Organisations held at NOA Conference Hall, Mallam Issa-Onilu who was ably represented by the Director, Civic, Values and Democracy Education, Dr. Olukemi Afolayan explained that the Charter would articulate the responsibilities of both the government and the citizens towards nation building.
” President Bola Tinubu is expected to formally unveil the National Values Charter “, the DG posited, adding that, ” it defines the Nigeria promise, the governments commitment to equality, democracy, entrepreneurship, peace, inclusivity, freedom and democracy”.
The Charter, he said, would also highlight a ‘Citizens Code’ calling on Nigerians to embrace discipline, duty of care, tolerance, leadership, accountability, environmental awareness and resilience.
While calling on the Voluntary Organisations to support the campaign and serve as role models in their communities to promote patriotism and public trust, the DG maintained that, Voluntary Organisations had historically played key roles in moral reawakening, youth mobilisation and community development dating back to the colonial period, he noted.
Explaining further, the Deputy Director, Mrs Rhoda Sadus stressed that the Charter was a critical component of a broader National Identity Project, aimed at global reputional management, while adding that, ” this is the first time any Nigerian Organisation is targeting global reputational management including broadcasts on International Channels like CNN and others.
The National Values Charter, she continued, was conceived to outline the responsibilities of both the government and its citizens, a departure from past initiatives that only targeted citizens.
Mrs Sadus said, ” we believe that when the government and the people fulfil their obligations, national development would follow suit”.
The Workshop attracted the presence of representatives from the Boys Brigade, Boys Scout Association of Nigeria, Girls Guide Association of Nigeria and Man O War.
Others includes, the Red Cross Society of Nigeria, National Cadet and our gallant War Against Indiscipline, (WAI).
The vote of thanks was however given by the Deputy Director, Mrs Ebelle Okonkwo.
