NOA Launches Sensitization Campaign on National Anthem, Values Charter in Jos

In a bid to reinforce national identity and promote unity, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) launched a nationwide sensitization and public enlightenment campaign on Nigeria’s new National Anthem protocols and National Values Charter on Tuesday in Jos, Plateau State.

The campaign was unveiled during a stakeholders’ engagement, aimed at encouraging collective responsibility in promoting national values.

During the event, Mrs. Kaneng Tabitha Pam-Hworo, Director of NOA Plateau State, underscored the campaign’s importance in addressing Nigeria’s enduring challenges related to national identity.

“This is the launch of a nationwide sensitization campaign focused on the National Anthem and the National Values Charter.Our nation, with its diversity of ethnic, religious, and linguistic groups, has struggled with a cohesive national identity since independence. This campaign aims to promote awareness and understanding of these vital elements of our identity.” She said.

Furthermore, Pam-Hworo underscored the unifying essence of the National Anthem. She explained that, going forward, the first stanza will be sung at most public gatherings, while the second stanza will be recognized officially as the national prayer.

“The National Anthem is more than just words—it carries the spirit of our nation, reminding us of our values, history, and aspirations.From today, the last stanza will serve as a national prayer, except during key national events like Independence Day, Democracy Day, and occasions when the President is present, where all stanzas will be sung.”She noted.

The National Values Charter, unveiled at the event, outlines seven promises made by the Nigerian state to its citizens, including the promotion of equality, democracy, entrepreneurship, and security.

Pam-Hworo emphasized the government’s commitment to these principles, stating, “The Nigerian Promise consists of seven core promises: equality for all, ensuring democracy thrives, fostering entrepreneurship and employment, promoting peace and security, creating inclusivity, ensuring freedom and justice, and upholding meritocracy.”

She further noted that the charter also sets out commitments for citizens, such as discipline, tolerance, and accountability amongst others, as crucial steps toward building a cohesive society and addressing the systemic problems that have plagued the nation.

To ensure the effectiveness of the campaign, Pam-Hworo highlighted that the agency has rolled out several initiatives, including civic education programs, the enrollment of citizens in value-driven programs, and orientation programs for public officials.

In his keynote address, Dr. Gad Shamaki Peter, Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, emphasized the necessity for Nigerians to rebuild trust and national identity through the National Values Charter, describing it as a crucial tool for restoring the foundational principles of the country.

He highlighted that the country’s ethnic and religious diversity, while rich, has often been a source of division rather than unity.“The disconnection we face as a nation is not just abstract—it manifests in our politics and how we see ourselves as Nigerians,The erosion of trust has led to a sense of hopelessness, and it’s time to transform that by embracing the values set out in the charter.”he said.

He also called for personal responsibility, urging citizens to exemplify discipline and tolerance.“Through meritocracy, transparency, and care for one another, we can redefine what it means to be Nigerian and build a nation where everyone belongs,” Dr peter added.

In a goodwill message, His Royal Majesty, Emir of Wase, Dr. Mohammed Sambo, representing the traditional rulers, encouraged citizens to embrace the National Anthem and the values charter as steps toward meaningful progress. He urged Nigerians to reflect on the values embedded in the anthem and work towards collective growth.

The event also saw commitments from the Plateau State Ministry of Education and the state’s Information and Communication Department to collaborate with NOA in ensuring that younger generations fully understand the importance of the National Anthem and the values it promotes.