The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to demonstrate greater commitment to national unity, responsible citizenship and economic development as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
The agency urged citizens to support efforts aimed at sustaining the country’s achievements since independence and building a more peaceful, productive and prosperous nation.
The Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, made the call in his Independence Day message, emphasising that Nigeria’s continued progress depended on the collective contributions of the government and its citizens.
Issa-Onilu described Nigeria’s independence from colonial rule as a defining moment in the country’s history, saying it provided Nigerians with the opportunity to determine their collective destiny and shape the nation’s future.
He noted that although Nigeria had faced several challenges since gaining independence, the country had continued to make progress, urging citizens to acknowledge the achievements recorded while remaining committed to addressing areas requiring further improvement.
According to him, sustaining the gains of independence requires citizens to take greater responsibility for the country they desire, rather than leaving the task of national development solely to the government.
“We must continue to hold on to the gains of our independence by taking responsibility for the Nigeria we want. The progress of our country depends not only on what the government does, but also on what each of us contributes as citizens,” he said.
The NOA director-general stressed that building a stronger Nigeria required active public participation, cooperation and a shared commitment to national development.
He maintained that government initiatives could achieve more meaningful and sustainable results when citizens actively contributed to their implementation through productive activities, compliance with the law and responsible conduct.
Issa-Onilu also called for renewed patriotism among Nigerians, urging them to place the collective interest of the nation above personal considerations and work together towards a common future.
He said the independence anniversary should serve not only as an occasion to reflect on Nigeria’s historical journey but also as an opportunity for citizens to renew their commitment to the responsibilities associated with nation-building.
The NOA chief further urged Nigerians to protect the country’s peace and unity as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He cautioned against allowing political differences to weaken national cohesion, urging citizens to reject hate speech, electoral violence and other actions capable of threatening peaceful coexistence.
According to him, political competition should not undermine the bonds that unite Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic, religious, cultural or political differences.
He encouraged political actors and citizens to embrace issue-based discussions, respect divergent opinions and resolve disagreements through lawful and democratic channels.
Issa-Onilu also emphasised the importance of respecting the rule of law before, during and after the 2027 general elections, noting that peaceful political engagement remained essential to preserving national stability.
He urged Nigerians to recognise that the country’s unity was a shared responsibility and that protecting democratic institutions required the cooperation of political leaders, community stakeholders and ordinary citizens.
The director-general further called on citizens to sustain the gains of independence through increased productivity, self-reliance and responsible citizenship.
He said every Nigerian had a role to play in building a stronger nation, stressing the importance of productive work, adherence to national values, peaceful coexistence and positive contributions to local communities.
Issa-Onilu encouraged Nigerians to demonstrate patriotism through their everyday actions, including respect for public institutions, responsible conduct and participation in activities that promote the common good.
He added that national development could not be achieved through government policies alone, but also required a citizenry willing to contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic and social advancement.
The NOA director-general reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to promoting patriotism, national unity and responsible citizenship across the country.
He said the agency would continue to provide Nigerians with accurate information on government policies and programmes while encouraging constructive public participation in national development.