The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has announced that his ministry is ready to launch the implementation of the National Values Charter.
The National Values Charter is a key document aimed at fostering civic responsibility and strengthening the bond between citizens and their country. Its primary objectives are to instill essential values, attitudes, and perspectives in citizens, ensuring they are informed about their constitutional rights while also emphasizing the government’s responsibilities towards them.
Rabiu Ibrahim, the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, stated that Mr. Idris made this announcement in Abuja on Wednesday during the expanded retreat of the National Orientation Agency (NOA).
Mr. Idris emphasized that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to promoting a moral, ethical, and cultural renaissance by instilling core values, attitudes, and perspectives among all Nigerians.
He highlighted that the National Values Charter—one of the ministry’s flagship initiatives through the NOA—is meticulously designed to ensure that Nigerians are fully informed about their constitutional rights and protections.
According to him, the initiative also aims to ensure that governments at all levels are aware of their constitutional obligations to the citizenry.
“On the one hand, it aims to ensure that all Nigerians are fully aware of their rights and protections under the constitution and the laws of the land, and that governments at all levels are equally aware of the constitutionally guaranteed obligations they have to the citizenry. This goal is encapsulated in the seven ‘Core Promises’ aspect of the Charter.
“On the other hand, it seeks to sensitize and awaken all Nigerians to our responsibilities as citizens of this great and beautiful country—which includes the responsibilities we have not only to one another but also to the government and the nation. This second goal is captured in the seven ‘Commitments’ aspect of the Charter,” the statement added.
Mr. Idris pledged to move forward with unwavering boldness and confidence, to cultivate a nation where mutual love and respect between citizens and the country are deeply ingrained.
The Minister highlighted that the NOA has become a crucial instrument for shaping national narratives and dialogues, fostering unity amid diversity, and promoting a sense of inclusivity and belonging throughout the nation.
He commended Director General Lanre Issa-Onilu for skillfully adapting to the evolving landscape of public communication by leveraging technology to enhance public awareness and engagement, while incorporating a feedback mechanism suited to the 21st century.
Mr. Idris described the expanded retreat as a significant step forward, offering a valuable opportunity to refine the NOA’s vision and intensify its efforts to drive progress, with the potential to profoundly influence Nigeria’s future