The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to shun the get-rich-quick syndrome, which is fast eroding the moral fabric of the society.

The agency further urged Nigerians to reject shortcuts to wealth and embrace integrity, hard work, and the opportunities provided through government initiatives to make life better for the citizens.

Director General of NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, gave the advice, yesterday, in Port Harcourt as part of activities to mark the flag-off of nationwide sensitisation campaigns on World HIV Day, Security Awareness, Discouraging Get-Rich-Quick Syndrome, World Human Rights Day and the Tax Reform Bills.

Issa-Onilu said that the government recognises that economic hardship often drives individuals toward unethical practices, noting that in addressing this, the government has implemented youth empowerment programmes, including the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) and skill acquisition initiatives, supported small and medium enterprises through grants and loans to promote entrepreneurship.

Meanwhile, amid the controversies surrounding the tax reform bills at the National Assembly, the NOA Director explained that the bills are meant to entrench fairness, equity and justice in the tax regime of the country.

He said the reforms would entrench the fiscal federalism in the country. Represented by the National Director, General Services, of the agency, Rebecca Nasamu, he announced that the sensitisation campaign is themed, “Promoting Awareness, Ethical Values and National Development.”

According to the NOA Director, the campaign is aimed at mobilising Nigerians to unite in addressing pressing issues facing the country and fostering a more informed, secure, and ethical society.

He said: “Taxation is essential for funding national development, but we recognise that it has been a source of concern for many Nigerians due to issues like multiple taxation and its impact on low-income earners. To address these challenges, the government is implementing reforms to make the system fairer and less burdensome for citizens.

“The tax reform bills are all about fairness, equity and justice. The tax reform is for even distribution where taxes are paid, where goods are consumed and where those goods are not consumed,” the DG stated.

He listed the benefits of the bills, including the elimination of double taxation, support for low-income earners, and simpler and transparent processes.

Issa-Onilu assured that the revenue from taxes would be used to improve essential public services like schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, ensuring citizens see the benefits of their contributions.

He urged Nigerians to support the bills, saying: “These reforms are designed to ease the burden on hardworking Nigerians while ensuring everyone contributes fairly. By supporting this effort, we can create a tax system that works for all and funds the development projects that will improve our nation.”