By: Monday Munkaila, Gombe
Nigerians have been urged to shun the get-rich-quick syndrome and reject shortcuts to wealth especially at this Yuletide period.
They should rather embrace integrity, hard work, and the opportunities provided through government initiatives to make life better for citizens.
The assertion was made by the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu while addressing a press conference in Gombe to flag-off Nationwide Sensitization Campaigns on the WORLD6 HIV Day, Security Awareness, discouraging get rich quick syndrome , world Human Rights Day and the Tax reform Bills on Thursday.
He warned that, “In this Yuletide season, the tendency to resort to criminal ways to acquire ill gotten wealth so as to impress others is heightened. The NOA will in this month of December be carrying out nationwide sensitization against the get rich quick syndrome.”
According to him,”The government recognizes that the erosion of our age long values and economic hardship often drives individuals toward unethical practices.”
He said that, “To address this, it has implemented youthe empowerment programmes such as the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) and skill acquisition initiatives.
It also Supported small and medium enterprises through grants and loans to promote entrepreneurship, Criminalized fraudulent practices, including internet fraud and financial crimes, with increased enforcement by agencies like the EFCC and ICPC.
The theme of the campaign is: “Promoting Awareness, Ethical Values and National Development”
Represented by the Director, Planning, Research and Strategy, Nura Yusuf Kobi, the DG stated that, Today, we are commencing a nationwide mobilization of Nigerians to unite in our commitment to addressing these pressing issues and fostering a more informed, secure, and ethical society. The challenges before us require collective action and active participation from all Nigerians.”
He highlighted the 5 Key Issues and Government Efforts on World HIV/AIDS Day which compliments the efforts being made by relevant health authorities coincides with the World HIV/AIDS Day.
He said that,”And we join the global community within the week across the 36 states, the FCT and the 774 Local Governments, in raising awareness.”
The government has intensified efforts to provide free and accessible HIV testing and counseling services nationwide, ensure antiretroviral treatment is available and accessible to people living with HIV/AIDS and partner with local and international organizations to combat stigma and discrimination.
The NOA DG added that, “However, it should be noted that the government alone cannot win this fight against HIV/AIDS. Citizens must take advantage of the services provided by government and other entities, practice responsible health behaviors, and support those living with HIV/AIDS.”
According to him,”Citizens have a big role to play in halting the spread of HIV/AIDS. We shall be carrying these messages across the length and breadth of Nigeria through our diverse messaging platforms.”
On security awareness, he stressed that, “Security remains a top priority for the government. Efforts to address insecurity include strengthening security architecture through better equipment, training, and increased funding for security agencies and expanding policing initiatives to improve collaboration between citizens and law enforcement.”
He added that,”Deploying technology, such as surveillance systems and intelligence gathering, to combat criminal activities.”
Issa-Onilu stressed that, “These efforts require the active support of citizens, who must report suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. We are urging citizens to be conscious of the fact that Security begins with you and I.”
On World Human Rights Day he said that,”As we commemorate World Human Rights Day, the government remains committed to protecting the dignity of every Nigerian.”
He stressed that, “Recent efforts include strengthening legal frameworks to address human rights violations, including gender-based violence and child trafficking and establishing support centers for survivors of abuse and violence in collaboration with civil society.”
Another measure is promoting constitutional awareness to ensure citizens understand their rights and responsibilities.
According to him,”These efforts can only be successful when citizens stand for justice, respect the rights of others, and report violations to the appropriate authorities. We will in this nationwide campaigns also be urging citizens to recognize that they also have civic responsibilities to uphold.”
In her welcome address, the State Director, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Adaline Waye Patari stated that,”This initiative is not just an event; it is a national movement aimed at addressing critical issues that affect our collective well-being and fostering a more informed, ethical, and united society.”
According to her, “As representatives of NOA in this state, we are proud to lead efforts in bringing this campaign to every community, engaging with citizens, and encouraging active participation in shaping the future of our beloved nation.”
Waye Patari stressed that, “Today marks the beginning of a purposeful journey to address five critical themes central to our nation’s progress: World HIV/AIDS Day; Security Awareness; Discouraging the Get-Rich-Quick Syndrome – Promoting integrity, hard work, and ethical values; World Human Rights Day – Protecting and upholding the dignity and rights of every Nigerian and Tax Reforms – Creating awareness about fair and transparent taxation as a tool for national development.
She added that, “These themes are interconnected, and together, they reflect the broader aspirations of our society: a healthier, safer, more ethical, and more prosperous Nigeria.
According to her,”The success of this campaign depends on all of us. Traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, youth groups, and the media are critical stakeholders in this endeavor. Your collaboration will amplify our efforts and ensure that the messages of this campaign resonate with every Nigerian.”
The NOA Director added that, ” We also call on citizens to embrace this campaign with the understanding that building the Nigeria of our dreams requires collective responsibility. Every action you take, no matter how small, contributes to the greater good.”
She stressed that, “The media, as the fourth estate of the realm, has a pivotal role to play in shaping public opinion. We urge our friends in the press to deploy your platforms to spread these vital messages. Together, we can educate, inspire, and mobilize citizens to take positive action.”
“As we embark on this campaign, let us do so with renewed commitment and determination. Together, we can overcome the challenges that confront us and build a Nigeria that we and future generations can be proud of. Let us work hand-in-hand to foster a society that reflects our shared values of health, security, justice, and development,” She concluded.
