NOA Begins Nationwide Sensitization Campaign On Human Rights, Security, Others
2 years ago 3 min read
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The National Orientation Agency (NOA) said it has begun a nationwide sensitisation campaign on HIV/AIDS, security consciousness, get-rich-quick syndrome, human rights and tax reforms.
The Director-General of NOA, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu said this on Tuesday during a One Day Sensitisation Town Hall Meeting in Asaba, Delta State.
Issa-Onilu, who was represented by the Director of General Services, National Headquarters, Abuja, Mrs Rebecca Nasamu, said there was a need for the sensitisation campaign of the five critical issues as they are central to the nation’s well-being, unity, and development.
According to him, the sensitisation campaign has the theme, “Promoting Awareness, Ethical Valued and National Development”.
“Today, we are commencing a nationwide mobilisation of Nigerians unity in our commitment to addressing these pressing issues and fostering a more informed, secure, and ethical society.
“The challenges before us require collective action and active participation from all Nigerians.
“This campaign toward HIV/AIDS complements the efforts being made by relevant health authorities and coincides with the World HIV/AIDS Day, which was marked on December 1.
“We also join the global community within the week across the 36 states, the FCT and the 774 Local Governments, in raising awareness,” he said.
He added that the government had intensified efforts to provide free and accessible HIV testing and counselling services nationwide.
The DG said the government also ensures that antiretroviral treatment is available and accessible to people living with HIV/AIDS, and partnering with local and international organisations to combat stigma and discrimination.
“Government alone cannot win this fight against HIV/AIDS, citizens must take advantage of the services provided by government and other entities, practice responsible health behaviours, and support those living with HIV/AIDS.
“Citizens have a big role to play in curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS. We shall be carrying these messages across the length and breadth of Nigeria through our diverse messaging platforms.”
Speaking on security, Issa-Onilu, noted that it remained a top priority for the government.
He said some of the efforts being made by the present administration include strengthening security architecture through better equipment, training, and increased funding for security agencies.
Others include: expanding policing initiatives to improve collaboration between citizens and law enforcement agencies as well as deploying technology, such as surveillance systems and intelligence gathering, to combat criminal activities.
He said all these efforts required the active support of all, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities and also cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
Commenting on the get-rich-quick syndrome, he noted that to address this, the government had implemented youth empowerment programmes and skills acquisition initiatives.
Issa-Onilu added that the present administration had supported small and medium enterprises through grants and loans to promote entrepreneurship.
He noted that the government had criminalised fraudulent practices, including internet fraud and financial crimes, with increased enforcement by agencies like the EFCC and ICPC.
“Citizens must reject shortcuts to wealth and embrace integrity, hard work, and the opportunities provided through government initiatives to make life better for citizens.
“In this Yuletide season, the tendency to resort to criminal ways to acquire ill-gotten wealth to impress others is heightened,” he said.
On tax reforms, he noted that the government was working to stop different levels of authorities from taxing people for the same thing.
He added that the reforms were designed to ease the burden on hardworking Nigerians while ensuring everyone contributes fairly.
“In all, NOA, will in December be carrying out nationwide sensitisation with different activities on the five critical issues to let citizens be informed, security conscious and shun crimes to get them rich quickly
“This campaign represents more than government initiatives, it is a call to action for every Nigerian to join hands in addressing these five critical issues.
“Together, we must create a society that is healthy, secure, ethical and united in purpose.
“The roles of stakeholders are very important, we call on media, traditional leaders, religious institutions, civil society organisations, and educational institutions to amplify these messages and extend their reach,” he said. (NAN)
