From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Ilorin residents witnessed a colourful roadshow as the National Orientation Agency (NOA), took its sensitisation drive across major streets of the Kwara State capital, urging citizens, especially young people, to shun social vices and embrace patriotism.
The awareness walk, which kicked off from the NOA State Headquarters at Fate Road, moved through Maraba, Muritala Muhammed Way, Sabo-Oke, Offa Road, and GRA before returning to the Secretariat, attracting the attention of motorists, traders, and passersby.
Addressing the crowd at Maraba Motor Park, the NOA North Central Zonal Director, Princess Priscilla Gondoaluor, said the campaign was aimed at strengthening citizens’ trust in governance while encouraging active participation in securing lives and property.
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“Security is a collective responsibility. The government has recruited more personnel, but citizens must also play their part by providing useful information,” she stated.
She lauded federal government’s interventions in education and infrastructure, urging Nigerians to recognise ongoing developments.
According to her, “Roads are being constructed, educational loans are now available, and opportunities are open for young people. Citizens should change the mindset that government is not working for them.”
Gondoaluor also encouraged those yet to obtain voter cards to register, noting that participation in elections remains a vital tool for shaping the nation’s future.
Kwara State Director of NOA, Alhaji Dare Olurotimi, while addressing participants, emphasised the agency’s focus on youth development and warned against fraudulent practices and cultural trends that could derail future leaders.
He particularly condemned the recent trend of lavish celebrations for “graduations” at nursery and primary levels, describing it as a breeding ground for moral decay. “Parents must resist such practices. Graduation should be reserved for real academic milestones, not occasions that expose children to wayward lifestyles,” he warned.
Olurotimi also cautioned residents against activities that worsen flooding, such as blocking waterways and erecting structures on riverbanks, while calling on citizens to protect national symbols. “The habit of spraying or stepping on money at parties degrades our currency. We must protect our national identity and embrace values of patriotism, honesty, and integrity,” he stressed.
The sensitisation was conducted in multiple local languages to ensure inclusivity, while educational materials were distributed to participants. NOA disclosed that similar campaigns are currently being replicated across all states of the federation and the FCT, with grassroots officers extending the message to local communities.
