By Ude Ogbonnaya Israel
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) is deepening efforts to nurture patriotism in young Nigerians as Director-General Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu hosted pupils from two Abuja schools.
In a lively session at NOA headquarters, the Director-General discussed national values, respect for symbols, and the essence of good citizenship with the excited children.
To spark their interest, Issa-Onilu began with questions about their favorite cartoons and superheroes before introducing Captain Excellence, a Nigerian animation hero who champions doing the right thing.
He explained that NOA’s core mission is to help Nigerians become responsible citizens who respect laws, symbols, and values that strengthen national unity and pride.
Encouraging the children, he urged them to be “real Nigerians”—patriotic citizens who honor the flag, obey rules, and contribute positively to society from a young age.
Issa-Onilu emphasized that leadership begins in childhood, teaching that kindness, obedience, and helpfulness form the true foundation of greatness.
Using the National Anthem, he drew powerful lessons on unity, love for country, and commitment to selfless national service.
The NOA boss also highlighted the symbolism of the Naira, advising the children never to write on or squeeze it, describing such acts as disrespectful to the nation.
He proudly noted that NOA operates in all 774 local governments, promoting positive values through schools, communities, and media engagements nationwide.
Introducing the 7 Citizen Codes, Issa-Onilu urged the children to live by them, saying adherence would produce world-class Nigerians who are proud ambassadors of the country.
Mrs. Cynthia Ngozi Opene, Producer of Kiddies World on NTA Channel 5, who led the visit, praised NOA for the enlightening and inspiring interaction.
She described the visit as an eye-opener to the Agency’s immense role in shaping responsible citizens and promoting national reorientation from childhood.
Opene promised to amplify NOA’s message of patriotism and civic responsibility through her platform, commending the Agency’s Citizen Brigade initiative in schools.
The visiting schools included CK Academy, Bmuko Dutse, and Goldsworth Resource Development Academy, Jikwoyi Road, Dagbana.