The Federal Government, through the National Orientation Agency (NOA), unveiled its 2025 Counter-Terrorism Strategy on Wednesday, launching a two-week nationwide enlightenment campaign aimed at bolstering public awareness of security, disaster preparedness, national values, and respect for Nigeria’s identity symbols.
The NOA reaffirmed the importance of respecting Nigeria’s national symbols, the flag, anthem, and pledge, and integrating civic education in schools to inspire pride in the nation’s heritage.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, the NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated that the initiative would be rolled out simultaneously across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and all 774 local government areas.
He said: “Today marks the beginning of a two-week nationwide civic engagement drive across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, and across all 774 Local Government Areas of our great country.
“This is not just another campaign; it is a coordinated national awakening that touches the very heart of our identity, safety, values, and development. The National Orientation Agency, in line with its constitutional mandate, is rolling out five thematic campaigns designed to address some of the most pressing issues in our communities today.
“Our democracy thrives only when citizens are informed and actively engaged. Our communities are safer when citizens are alert and cooperative. Our youth flourish when guided by the right values. Our heritage endures when we uphold our symbols and identity. Our lives and livelihoods are preserved when we prepare ahead of natural disasters.”
Issa-Onilu noted that citizens’ safety and national unity depend on collective responsibility, adding that communities must be proactive in preventing crime, responding to disaster warnings, and fostering national pride.
With Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) projections indicating high flood risks in 27 states, he urged communities to clear drainage systems, comply with relocation advisories, and embrace early warning systems.
On security, he emphasised that it is everybody’s business, urging citizens to promptly report suspicious activities and cooperate with security agencies to maintain community safety.
He also cautioned against extreme graduation celebrations that endanger lives, instead promoting safe, disciplined, and patriotic events.
As part of the campaign, press conferences will be held in all states and the FCT, while grassroots outreach will target markets, schools, motor parks, religious institutions, and community halls. Information materials in English and the major Nigerian languages will be distributed, with daily radio, television, and social media campaigns.
He called on the media, traditional and religious leaders, civil society, student unions, and community groups to join in fostering patriotism, unity, and vigilance.
Issa-Onilu added, “Let us use these two weeks to ignite a new spirit of patriotism, vigilance, unity, and responsibility. Together, we can make the values we preach the values we live.”
