On Tuesday, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) launched a public awareness campaign in Enugu focused on Nigeria’s new national anthem and the National Values Charter. Mrs. Clara Nwachukwu, the Enugu State Director of NOA, announced that this initiative will unfold over the next three months. The implementation of the National Values Charter is intended to promote a moral, ethical, and cultural renaissance among the people of Enugu State.
Nwachukwu explained that the National Values Charter, a key initiative of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, is being rolled out through the NOA. The charter aims to embed positive values, attitudes, and perspectives in the hearts and minds of all Nigerians, regardless of their religion, ethnicity, or social class. She stated, “The goal of this program is to reorient and guide Nigerians towards the values and principles that have historically underpinned our culture and societal institutions.”
Highlighting the significance of the new National Anthem and the National Values Charter, Nwachukwu described them as pivotal for fostering national pride and identity, reflecting the evolving ideals and aspirations of the nation. She articulated that values are essentially accepted principles or standards of behavior that define individuals and communities.
She characterized the new National Anthem as a powerful call for unity, fairness, and prosperity among Nigerians. Nwachukwu urged the people to uphold the nation’s core values, which include love, patriotism, resilience, courage, dignity of labor, respect for life, belief in the family as a fundamental societal unit, justice, fairness, and environmental stewardship. She cautioned against the unregulated adoption of foreign values that could compromise these fundamental principles.
Nwachukwu emphasized that the nationwide awareness campaign transcends mere promotion; it represents a movement urging all Nigerians to embrace the shared values embodied in the national anthem and the National Values Charter. “As we progress, let us remember that unity, respect, and dedication to these values are essential for realizing the Nigeria we aspire to,” she said.
She acknowledged the ongoing challenges of ethnic consciousness that complicate Nigeria’s quest for a unified identity. While recognizing the importance of various socio-cultural and religious differences, she stressed the need to accept that all Nigerians share a common destiny. Reflecting on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nwachukwu reiterated the necessity of building a cohesive national identity through ongoing sensitization and reorientation efforts.