By Chibuike Nwabuko
Abuja (Precise Post) – In a renewed effort to foster national unity and deepen public consciousness around national identity, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has donated 5,000 copies of the reintroduced national anthem, alongside Nigerian flags and a National Values Charter plaque, to the National Sports Commission.
The donation was made during a formal presentation ceremony held in Abuja. Representing the Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, the Director of Special Duties and State Operations, Mr. David Akoji, emphasized the unifying power of sports, stating that it transcends barriers of ethnicity, religion, and political affiliation.
He noted that the agency had received numerous complaints and video evidence of athletes struggling to correctly recite the national anthem at public events. In response, the Director General approved the distribution of anthem copies to enhance correct rendition and strengthen patriotic pride among sports professionals and fans alike.
“This initiative is about reinforcing the symbols and values that bind us together as a nation,” Akoji said. “Sports offer a unique platform where the desire to win unites us under one flag and anthem.”
The NOA also presented a plaque containing the National Values Charter, described as a critical social contract between the government and its citizens. The charter outlines the Nigerian Promise, the Citizens’ Code, and key institutional values that serve as behavioral and ethical guidelines for both leaders and the public.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, commended the NOA’s gesture, describing it as both timely and impactful—especially as the Nigerian Falcons prepare for their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final clash against Morocco.
“Sports is not only a tool for unity, it’s a major driver of economic growth and youth empowerment. These materials will be distributed during the final to help instill a deeper sense of national pride and ensure the anthem is properly rendered,” Dikko said.
The NOA delegation also included senior officials such as Mallam Bala Musa, Director of Communication and Media; Dr. Olukemi Afolayan, Director of Civic, Values and Democracy Education; Mrs. Blessings Oyem, Director of Youth Engagement and Inclusion; Mr. Dogo Williams, Director of Legal Services; and Mr. Emeka Egbugara, Director of Environment, Energy and Climate Change.
