Ukorebi Esien I October 1, 2025
ABUJA — As Nigeria celebrates her 65th Independence Anniversary, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on citizens to look beyond ceremonial festivities and embrace renewed patriotism, civic responsibility, and value-driven citizenship.
In a goodwill message, NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said the anniversary provides Nigerians with an opportunity to reflect deeply on the meaning of nationhood, drawing strength from diversity, resilience, and shared aspirations for peace and progress.
He emphasized that Nigeria's future depends not only on leaders but also on how citizens uphold core national values such as discipline, integrity, self-reliance, and social justice in their daily lives.
"The future of Nigeria depends not just on leaders in office, but on how every citizen chooses to uphold these values in everyday life," Issa-Onilu stated.
The NOA boss acknowledged President Bola Tinubu's ongoing efforts to revive the economy and urged Nigerians to complement such initiatives through civic engagement, volunteerism, and active participation in community development.
He further stressed that true patriotism is expressed not only through symbolic acts but also in everyday conduct — respecting national symbols, upholding the rule of law, and contributing positively to society.
Issa-Onilu also tasked schools, religious institutions, traditional leaders, and civil society groups to use the occasion of Independence to lead discussions on national identity, cultural preservation, and active citizenship.
Reaffirming the Agency's commitment to promoting civic values and national unity, the DG encouraged Nigerians at home and abroad to proudly reaffirm their allegiance to the country and work together to build "the Nigeria of our dreams."