As Nigerians step into a new year filled with hope and expectations, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has made a heartfelt appeal for unity, describing it as the nation’s strongest weapon against insecurity.
In his New Year message, Issa-Onilu called on citizens to rekindle patriotism, embrace collective responsibility and actively participate in national life, stressing that peace and development cannot be achieved by government efforts alone.
While acknowledging ongoing government actions to tackle security challenges, the NOA boss emphasized that insecurity thrives where citizens feel disconnected from the nation’s affairs.
According to him, lasting security can only be achieved when Nigerians see themselves as stakeholders and work together for the common good.
He urged Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and regional differences, warning that forces bent on dividing the country often exploit such fault lines to undermine peace and unity.
Issa-Onilu noted that restoring confidence in the Nigerian project requires a revival of shared national values, adding that unity, vigilance and civic engagement must become everyday commitments, not just slogans.
Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s firm stance on security, he highlighted recent international collaboration with the United States that led to a successful airstrike on terrorist enclaves.
He described the operation as a reflection of decisive leadership and Nigeria’s growing global security partnerships.
The NOA Director-General also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and youth groups to take the lead in promoting peaceful coexistence, tolerance and respect for the rule of law within their communities.
He concluded by wishing Nigerians a year filled with peace, unity and fulfilled aspirations, urging citizens to remain hopeful, engaged and committed to building a safer and better Nigeria for all.
Reporting by Abiola Peters