NOA kicks against Yahoo Yahoo, launches nationwide campaign on 5 critical issues
The National Orintation Agency (NOA) has flagged-off a nationwide sensitisation campaign on five thematic issues that are central to nation’s well-being, unity, and development
The Director General of NOA, Mall. Lanre Issa-Onilu, launched the campaign at a press conference on Friday in Lokoja, with the theme: “Promoting Awareness, Ethical Values and National Development”
According to him, the campaign aims to address Security awareness, Tax Reforms, Shunning get-rich-quick syndrome, World Human Rights and World HIV/AIDS Days.
“Today, we are commencing a nationwide mobilization of Nigerians to unite in our commitment to addressing these pressing issues and fostering a more informed, secure, and ethical society.
“The challenges before us require collective action and active participation from all Nigerians,” Issa-Onilu stated.
He enjoined citizens to shun the get-rich-quick syndrome by rejecting shortcuts to wealth and embrace integrity, hard work, and the opportunities provided through government initiatives to make life better for citizens.
“In this Yuletide season, the tendency to resort to criminal ways to acquire ill gotten wealth so as to impress others is heightened.
“The NOA will in this month of December be carrying out nationwide sensitisation against the get rich quick syndrome.
“As we commemorate World Human Rights Day, the government remains committed to protecting the dignity of every Nigerian,” he said.
He pointed out that the Bills: Nigeria Tax, Nigeria Tax Administration, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment, were designed to ease the burden on hardworking Nigerians while ensuring everyone contributes fairly.
“Taxation is essential for funding national development, but we recognize that it has been a source of concern for many Nigerians due to issues like multiple taxation and its impact on low-income earners.
“To address these challenges, the government is implementing reforms to make the system fairer and less burdensome for citizens.
“By supporting this effort, we can create a tax system that works for all and funds the development projects that will improve our nation,” he said
Issa-Onilu, who was represented by the Acting State Director of NOA, Kogi Directorate Patrick Edogbanya, added that the campaign would also compliments the efforts being made by relevant health authorities which coincides with the World HIV/AIDS Day.
He said the agency would join the global community within the week across the 36 states, the FCT and the 774 Local Governments, in raising awareness.
Speaking on security awareness, the NOA DG stressed that security remained a top priority for the government by strengthening security architecture through better equipment, training, and increased funding for security agencies.
He added: “These efforts require the active support of citizens, who must report suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
“We are urging citizens to be conscious of the fact that Security begins with you and I”.
According to him, the government’s recent efforts include: “Strengthening legal frameworks to address human rights violations, including gender-based violence and child trafficking.
“Establishing support centers for survivors of abuse and violence in collaboration with civil society.
“Promoting constitutional awareness to ensure citizens understand their rights and responsibilities.
“These efforts can only be successful when citizens stand for justice, respect the rights of others, and report violations to the appropriate authorities.
“We will in this nationwide campaigns also be urging citizens to recognize that they also have civic responsibilities to uphold.
“This campaign represents more than government initiatives—it is a call to action for every Nigerian to join hands in addressing these five critical issues.
“Together, we must create a society that is healthy, secure, ethical, and united in purpose”.
He, therefore solicited the support of all stakeholders such as the traditional leaders, religious institutions, civil society organizations, and educational institutions to amplify these messages and extend their reach.
The NOA DG further urged the media to partner with the Agency in spreading these critical messages through their platforms, ensuring every Nigerian is adequately informed and inspired to act.
He added: “The government is doing its part, but no government can succeed alone. Addressing these five key areas requires collaboration from all citizens, stakeholders, and institutions.
“Together, we can build a healthier, safer, and more ethical Nigeria. Let us commit ourselves to these ideals and work tirelessly to make them a reality for our beloved nation”.
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