Ilorin residents were on Friday treated to a colourful sensitization roadshow as the National Orientation Agency (NOA) took its campaign for positive values, patriotism, and community responsibility across major streets of the Kwara State capital. The awareness walk, which kicked off from the agency’s state office at the Federal Secretariat, Fate Road, passed through Maraba, Muritala Muhammed Way, Sabo-Oke, Offa Road, and GRA before returning to its base. The campaign drew the attention of motorists, commuters, and traders who were engaged in different local languages by NOA officials. Addressing residents at the Maraba Motor Park, the Zonal Director of NOA North Central, Princess Dr. Priscilla Gondoaluor, explained that the initiative was aimed at making Nigerians embrace the Renewed Hope Agenda by appreciating ongoing government efforts and playing their part in national development. “Security is not for government alone; it is a collective responsibility. Citizens must support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements. That is how we can make our country safe,” she said. Gondoaluor highlighted government’s efforts in road construction, educational loans, and youth opportunities, while urging Nigerians to take advantage of them. She also appealed to those yet to register for voter cards to do so, stressing that electoral participation is the strongest way to influence governance. On his part, the Kwara State Director of NOA, Alhaji Dare Abdulganiyu Olurotimi, said the agency was determined to steer youths away from fraudulent practices and social vices. He raised concerns about indiscriminate celebrations of “graduations” at lower school levels, describing them as unhealthy trends that encourage wayward behaviour among children. “Parents must discourage these so-called graduation parties. Academic achievements should be celebrated at real milestones, not turned into excuses for excesses,” he warned. Olurotimi further advised residents to stop blocking waterways or building on riverbanks, stressing that flooding and erosion can be prevented if people take responsibility. He also reminded Nigerians to respect national symbols such as the Naira, the flag, and the President’s portrait. “The culture of spraying or stepping on money at parties devalues our currency and identity. We must return to the values of patriotism, honesty, and integrity,” he added. NOA disclosed that the sensitization drive is ongoing across all states of the federation, with local government officers taking the campaign down to grassroots communities to instill discipline, patriotism, and shared responsibility among Nigerians.
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