NOA Seeks Stronger Partnership with NAWOJ Ahead of Elections
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting national values, civic responsibility, and identity, while calling for stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists(NAWOJ) ahead of Nigeria’s next general elections.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by NAWOJ, the Director-General of NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the engagement as timely and crucial for strengthening democratic processes. He noted that effective nation-building depends on sustained partnerships between institutions responsible for public communication and citizen engagement.
Issa-Onilu highlighted NOA’s grassroots reach, with over 800 offices nationwide, and its origins from the Mass Mobilization for Self Reliance Social Justice and Economic Recovery framework. He also commended women journalists for their role in promoting ethical journalism and national development.
Emphasising the importance of youth engagement, he stressed the need to strengthen voter and civic education, particularly as a large portion of Nigeria’s population is under 35. He warned that digital and foreign media influences are reshaping societal values, making structured civic orientation more important.
The NOA boss further disclosed that the Agency is advancing the Nigerian Identity Project under the National Values Charter, based on a “seven-for-seven” principle outlining mutual responsibilities between citizens and government. He added that the Federal Executive Council has approved the reintroduction of Citizenship Studies into school curricula to promote national consciousness.
He also revealed plans to boost local children’s content, targeting at least 70 percent of cartoons to reflect Nigerian culture and values.
In her remarks, NAWOJ President, Aishatu Ibrahim, said the visit aimed to strengthen collaboration in civic education, ethical journalism, and the fight against misinformation ahead of the elections. She proposed joint initiatives including nationwide training, community outreach, and media campaigns to encourage informed and inclusive participation.
Also speaking, NAWOJ Board of Trustees member, Zubair Jide Atta, emphasised the need to integrate media and information literacy into the education system.
Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to promoting civic responsibility, national values, and inclusive governance as Nigeria prepares for the upcoming elections.
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