NOA chief warns youths against misinformation threatening national unity

The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, has urged Nigerians, particularly youths, to avoid misinformation and divisive narratives capable of undermining national unity and development.

Issa-Onilu gave the warning on Tuesday while delivering a public lecture titled “Positive Mindset and Communication for Success” during the reunion of the University of Ife Muslim Graduates Association at Obafemi Awolowo University in Osun State.

According to a statement shared on the agency’s official X handle, the NOA boss stressed that communication remains a powerful tool for shaping public perception, building trust and promoting peaceful coexistence within society.

He warned that careless communication, especially in the digital age, could fuel social division and weaken efforts aimed at achieving national progress and stability.

Issa-Onilu also encouraged young Nigerians to use their voices and social platforms responsibly, urging them to see themselves as active contributors to nation-building rather than passive observers.

The NOA Director-General further stated that national development depends not only on government policies and programmes but also on the mindset of citizens and the quality of conversations within society.

He noted that resilience, hope and solution-driven thinking are essential for overcoming national challenges, adding that fostering optimism and responsibility among citizens would strengthen unity and collective growth.

Issa-Onilu also reiterated the need for Nigerians to uphold shared national values such as integrity, accountability, patriotism and respect for the rule of law in line with the objectives of the National Values Charter initiative.