The National Value Charter has been described as social contract between the citizens and government at all levels.
The Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Issa Onilu, stated this in Uyo, while declaring open the sensitization exercise on National Value Chatter and National Anthem for stakeholders at the weekend.
Represented at the event by the Director Orientation and behavioral modification, Barr. Tessy Nnaleu, the DG explained that the Charter is divided into two broad sections, which has: the Nigerian promise made about the country and represented by all elected and appointed leaders, including: equality, democracy, peace and security, inclusivity, employment, entrepreneurship, among others.
He said the Citizen’s code comprises commitment to the Nigerian states and fellow citizens, such as discipline, duty of care, tolerance and respect, leadership and transparency as well as environmental awareness, among others.
According to him, the sensitisation campaign on the National Values Charter is aimed at promoting a united and prosperous Nigeria based on respect, tolerance, understanding, democracy and good governance.
“The values charter represents a blueprint for a united, prosperous and harmonious Nigeria. Its also touched on our reverse to the old National Anthem ‘Nigeria We Hail Thee”, which is a symbol of our shared identity and heritage.
“Its lyrics remind us of a duty to promote peace, unity and progress.
“NOA will sensitise Nigerians on the National Values Charter by promoting civic education and awareness, engage stakeholders in value orientation and foster partnership for national development”. The DG stated
He called on Nigerians to join in embracing diversity and promote tolerance, respect the dignity and worth of every individual and uphold democracy and the rule of law.
Speaking, Akwa Ibom State Director of the Agency, Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, said that the current administration has initiated several policies and programmes to address the country’s socio-economic challenges, adding that the introduction of the students loans scheme, the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund and the removal of fuel subsidy were some of the economic initiatives to ensure economic reforms and growth.
He identified the presidential compressed natural gas initiative, establishment of conversion centres to promote the use of compressed natural gas, micro-economic reforms focusing on improved investment, revenue generation and economic growth as some of the other reforms.
According to him, the removal of fuel subsidy has made it possible for funds to be directed towards critical sectors like healthcare, education and infrastructure and security while the unification of the foreign exchange market to reflect the actual value of the Naira has boosted investors’ confidence.
He noted that the federal government has committed N50 billion as conditional grants to nano business across the country to empower one million small businesses, foster entrepreneurship and economic growth.
He however disclosed that N100 billion has been made available for the CNG rollout programme to promote the use of compressed natural gas, reducing reliance on traditional fuels and enhancing environmental sustainability.
The event was attended by heads of selected public and private schools, teachers and students mostly from the rural area in the state.
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