Nigeria at 66: NOA urges citizens to support national unity, development
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to national unity and development as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, made the call in a message ahead of the anniversary, describing Nigeria’s independence from colonial rule as a defining milestone that gave citizens the opportunity to determine their destiny and shape the country’s future.
Issa-Onilu said Nigeria had made steady progress over the years despite the challenges it had faced, urging citizens to recognise the achievements recorded while remaining committed to addressing areas requiring further improvement.
He said, “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”.
The NOA boss stressed that government alone could not build the Nigeria citizens desired, calling for greater participation, cooperation and commitment from Nigerians in supporting national development efforts.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians to protect the country’s peace and unity by respecting political differences, rejecting hate speech and violence, and resolving disagreements through lawful and democratic means.
He said political competition should not be allowed to undermine the bonds that unite Nigerians, urging citizens to promote issue-based engagement, respect divergent views and uphold the rule of law before, during and after the elections.
Issa-Onilu also urged Nigerians to sustain the gains of independence through increased productivity, self-reliance and responsible citizenship, stressing that everyone had a role to play in building a stronger nation through productive work, respect for national values, peaceful coexistence and positive contributions to their communities.
