The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Kogi State has embarked on a comprehensive public awareness campaign to address pressing national concerns. The campaign, designed as a roadshow and series of advocacy visits, focuses on three key areas: security awareness, flood disaster management, and the reinforcement of national values. Recognizing the interconnectedness of these issues, the NOA aims to empower citizens with knowledge and encourage proactive engagement to foster a more secure, resilient, and ethically grounded society. This initiative reflects the agency’s commitment to bridging the gap between government policies and the lived experiences of Nigerians, thereby promoting unity and collective responsibility in tackling national challenges.
The security awareness component of the campaign emphasizes the crucial role of citizens in maintaining peace and order. The NOA stresses that security is a shared responsibility, urging residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities promptly, and cultivate a sense of community watchfulness. This proactive approach aims to prevent crime by creating an environment where potential threats are quickly identified and neutralized. Furthermore, the NOA highlights the importance of knowing one’s neighbors and building strong community bonds, as this fosters trust and mutual support, which are vital for effective security measures. The agency advocates for a united front against insecurity, encouraging citizens to see themselves as active participants in safeguarding their communities rather than passive bystanders.
In response to the recurring threat of flooding, particularly in vulnerable areas, the NOA is disseminating crucial information about flood disaster management. The campaign emphasizes the importance of adhering to early warning advisories issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and encourages residents in flood-prone areas to relocate to safer grounds. Furthermore, the NOA underscores the link between proper waste disposal practices and flood mitigation, highlighting how responsible waste management can significantly reduce the risk of flooding. By equipping citizens with this knowledge, the agency aims to empower them to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their properties from the devastating impacts of floods.
Beyond immediate security and environmental concerns, the NOA is also championing a national values reorientation campaign. This initiative seeks to instill a sense of patriotism, promote respect for national symbols, and encourage ethical conduct. The agency condemns extreme graduation practices that deviate from Nigerian traditions, emphasizing the importance of upholding cultural norms and values. By promoting a shared sense of national identity and pride, the NOA aims to strengthen the social fabric of the nation and foster unity amongst its diverse population. This focus on values underscores the belief that a strong nation is built not only on security and infrastructure but also on a foundation of shared values and ethical principles.
To ensure broad reach and impact, the NOA’s campaign employs a multilingual approach, disseminating information in various local languages, including Okun, Igala, Ebira, Yoruba, Hausa, Nupe, and Pidgin English. This strategy recognizes the linguistic diversity of Kogi State and aims to ensure that the message resonates with all segments of the population. The inclusion of a popular social media influencer and comedian, Mr. Glory Torere, further amplifies the campaign’s reach, particularly among younger audiences. Mr. Torere’s use of Pidgin English, a widely understood language, adds a relatable and engaging dimension to the campaign, making the information accessible and memorable.
The carefully planned roadshow, which commenced at Ganaja junction and concluded at the Post Office area of Lokoja, symbolizes the NOA’s proactive engagement with the community. By taking the message directly to the people, the agency demonstrates its commitment to reaching a wide audience and fostering direct dialogue. This approach not only disseminates information but also creates opportunities for community members to engage with NOA representatives, ask questions, and share their concerns. The campaign’s focus on direct community interaction reflects the NOA’s understanding that effective communication is a two-way street and that building trust and fostering collaboration requires active engagement with the people it serves. The roadshow, coupled with advocacy visits and stakeholder engagement meetings, forms a comprehensive strategy to promote awareness, encourage participation, and build a stronger, more resilient nation.
