Lanre Issa-Onilu Archives

National Ordinance Day: NOA Charges Nigerians to Honour National Symbols

The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has called on Nigerians to show greater respect and commitment to the country’s national symbols as the nation commemorates National Ordinance Day 2025. Speaking in Abuja, the DG reminded citizens that the National Flag, Coat of Arms, National Anthem, Pledge, Constitution, and other emblems of sovereignty represent the unity, dignity, and identity of Nigeria. He stressed that giving proper recognition to these symbols is both a civic duty and a mark of patriotism. “Respect for our national symbols is respect for Nigeria itself. Each time we hoist the flag correctly, recite the pledge sincerely, or sing the anthem with pride, we affirm our loyalty and commitment to the ideals of our nation,” Issa-Onilu said. The DG noted that September 16 is set aside annually as National Ordinance Day to commemorate the handover of Nigeria’s national symbols at independence. He urged Nigerians to use the day as a reminder to live out the values of unity, discipline, and service embedded in the ordinances. Issa-Onilu further encouraged schools, communities, organizations, and government institutions to consciously integrate respect for national symbols into their daily practices, saying this will help deepen national identity and strengthen social cohesion. The NOA reaffirmed its commitment to continuous nationwide sensitization and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that every Nigerian understands and upholds the dignity of the country’s symbols.

DG NOA Advocates Strong Family Values for National Security

Fola Badmus4 days ago4 days ago02 mins

The Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has called for the reinforcement of strong family values as a foundation for national security, stressing that the stability of the home directly influences the stability of the nation. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) Haske Biyu 2025 in Jaji, Kaduna state, Onilu described the family as the first school of citizenship where values, discipline, empathy, and responsibility are first instilled. He noted that when families are grounded in love and structure, they nurture responsible citizens who contribute positively to the nation. He warned that the breakdown of family systems often leads to societal instability, with consequences such as youth delinquency, drug abuse, cultism, and even recruitment into extremist groups. According to him, moral neglect, poverty, and lack of parental guidance can become a breeding ground for insecurity if not addressed from the home. The event in jaji drew the participation of critical security stakeholders from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), reflecting a broad-based commitment to strengthening national security.