The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has sensitised residents of Sokoto State on the National Values Charter and the importance of the new national anthem.
While briefing newsmen at the NUJ press centre on Tuesday, the Sokoto State Director of the Agency, Babangida Kurfi, described the new National Values Charter as a proposed social contract between the country and its citizens.
He explained that the charter is designed to instill national values in all Nigerians, foster national identity, and ensure unity and cohesion across the country.
Speaking on the new national anthem, Kurfi highlighted its historical significance and the reasons for its reintroduction:
“The Nigeria We Hail Thee National Anthem, which was sung on 1st October 1960, was abandoned in 1978 by the General Obasanjo administration. However, President Tinubu felt the need to return to the Nigeria We Hail Thee national anthem.”
Kurfi further elaborated on the challenges currently facing the nation and the role of the anthem in addressing them:
“Today, our nation confronts a different set of trials—our economy is struggling, insecurity haunts many regions, our infrastructure is in disarray, and our moral compass wavers in these challenging times. It is crucial to ignite the spirit of our citizens, remind them of our shared values and aspirations, and rally them under a common banner.”
He emphasised that the new anthem symbolises the collective strength and resilience of Nigerians:
“The lyrics are too real to be ignored; they speak directly to our sentiments as a diverse people grappling for a shared identity. The new national anthem tells the truth about us, it is inspiring, and capable of galvanizing a sense of pride and rallying us towards national cohesion.”
To ensure the message of the National Values Charter and the new national anthem reach every part of Sokoto State, Kurfi disclosed that the NOA has opened offices in all 23 local government areas of the state.
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