NOA DG Urges Nigerians To Unify Around A National Identity

The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, has identified the absence of a unified national identity as a major factor contributing to Nigeria’s challenges.

He argued that without a strong sense of collective identity, achieving national unity, patriotism, and love for the country becomes nearly impossible.

Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja during the presentation of the agency’s 7-7 National Values Charter, Issa-Onilu highlighted how this framework aims to address Nigeria’s identity crisis. He explained that the charter promotes mutual accountability between leadership and citizens as a means of fostering national cohesion. “Our failure as a country is because our national identity has not evolved,” he stated. “Until we evolve a national identity, we cannot achieve the unity, patriotism, and love for the country that we are looking for.”

Issa-Onilu pointed out that past efforts to build a shared sense of purpose often focused too narrowly on citizens while neglecting leadership and institutional roles. He said, “This disconnect has left individuals relying on ethnic or religious affiliations, preventing the emergence of a unified identity,” and criticized previous initiatives for prioritizing slogans over meaningful reforms.

Drawing inspiration from nations like Japan and the United States, Issa-Onilu stressed the role of institutional reforms in shaping societal values. “For most countries, one can clearly define their citizenship. When you see Americans, Japanese, or Chinese, they have their attributes. Even foreign students in the U.S. are taught the American way of life,” he noted.

The 7-7 National Values Charter proposes a dual commitment: the “Nigerian Promise,” outlining the government’s responsibilities to its citizens, and the “Citizen Codes,” defining citizens’ obligations. Both components are structured around seven pillars designed to strengthen accountability and foster a sense of connection between the people and the state.

Issa-Onilu urged the swift implementation of these reforms, emphasizing their importance for building a unified and prosperous nation. “The success of these reforms could lay the foundation for a stronger emotional bond between Nigerians and their country,” he concluded.

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