The Imo Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to shun shortcuts to wealth and adopt a lifestyle rooted in integrity and hard work.
The agency also encouraged citizens to take advantage of government initiatives designed to improve their quality of life.
Speaking at a press briefing in Owerri on Thursday, the NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, highlighted these points as part of a nationwide campaign against the get-rich-quick mentality.
Issa-Onilu, speaking through the agency’s Director of Public Enlightenment and Mass Mobilisation, Mrs. Theresa Maduekwe, emphasized the need for citizens to collaborate in fostering a healthy, secure, and morally upright society.
He highlighted the increased tendency for individuals to engage in criminal activities to acquire wealth during the festive season and cautioned that fraudulent practices, including internet scams, are now criminalized by the government.
To tackle the decline in societal values and alleviate economic challenges, he noted that the government has introduced youth empowerment programs and skill acquisition initiatives.
Issa-Onilu stated that the government has enhanced the nation’s security framework by providing better equipment, training, and increased funding for security agencies.
He emphasized that these efforts require active citizen support, urging people to report suspicious activities and collaborate with law enforcement agencies.
He also called on citizens to uphold justice and respect the rights of others, noting that the commemoration of World Human Rights Day serves as a reminder of their civic duty to promote these values.
He also addressed the issue of HIV/AIDS, urging Nigerians to adopt responsible health practices and show support for those living with the virus.
He called on traditional, religious, and educational institutions, as well as civil society organizations, to amplify the campaign’s message and broaden its reach.
The NOA State Director, Mrs. Stellamaris Demian-Igwe, emphasized that the campaign aims to tackle the erosion of societal values and raise awareness about its dangers.
She added that the agency plans to hold town hall meetings with stakeholders and conduct door-to-door advocacy to ensure the campaign’s success.
