The National Orientation Agency (NOA) have underscored sports as a powerful and unifying force capable of transcending barriers of tribe, religion, and political affiliation, with which the collective desire to win often brings people together under a common purpose.
The Director General of NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated this in Abuja , while presenting 5,000 copies of the reintroduced national anthem, the Nigerian national flag, and a plaque highlighting the National Values Charter to the National Sports Commission.
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The aim of the presentation is to deepen national consciousness and promote the use of key national symbols, amongst Nigerian citizens.
The Director General NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, who was represented by the Director, Special Duties and State Operations, Mr David Akoji, explained that the agency had received complaints and video clips showing athletes struggling to accurately sing the national anthem, prompting him to approve the donation of anthem copies to the commission to enhance correct understanding and performance.
While presenting the plaque containing information on the National Values Charter, he said: “the charter serves as a vital social contract between the government and citizens, adding that it encompasses the Nigerian Promise, the Citizens’ Code, and key institutional policies designed to guide the behavior and responsibilities of all Nigerians”.
Responding, the Chairman, National Sports Commission, Mr. Shehu Dikko, emphasised the significant role of sports as a key driver of the country’s economy, highlighting that : “beyond fostering national unity, sports also create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth” .
The Chairman, who described the gesture as timely and impactful, especially as the Nigerian Falcons prepare to face Morocco in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final, also added that the materials would be distributed at the event to help strengthen national pride and ensure proper rendition of the anthem.
The NOA delegation, was led by the Director of Special Duties and State Operations, Mr David Akoji, comprised other senior officials including the Director of Communication and Media, Mallam Bala Musa; Director of Civic, Values and Democracy Education, Dr Olukemi Afolayan; Director of Youth Engagement and Inclusion, Mrs Blessings Oyem; Director of Legal Services, Mr Dogo Williams; and Director of Environment, Energy and Climate Change, Mr Emeka Egbugara.