Reps want review of annual budgetary allocation to NOA

By Christiana Ekpa

The House of Representatives on Tuesday stressed the need for an upward review of the annual budgetary allocation to the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in the bid to improve Citizens’ orientation.
The House equally notes that the National Orientation Agency of Nigeria was established in 1993 with a clear mandate to promote civic responsibility and orient Nigerians on national values.
The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Adewale Hammed who harped on the need for a comprehensive re-orientation of citizens on national values, encouraging a growth mindset, and promoting the spirit of unity and patriotism.
“The House further notes that the Agency is empowered to among others, propagate the need to eschew all vices in public life, promote dignity of labour and consumption of local products and establish social institutions for fostering national integration.
“The House again notes that the Agency has an elaborate grassroots structure and extensive reach to the majority of Nigerians in all 36 States of the Federation including the Federal Capital Territory, and 774 Local Government Areas, it serves as a veritable tool for citizen mobilization and engagement.
“The House is aware that the budgetary allocation for the Agency in the Appropriation Act, 2024 is N8,819,470,967 only
“The House is concerned that the existing funding provided for the Agency is grossly inadequate to meet the extensive responsibilities of the agency and its offices across the nation.
“The House is also concerned that given the prevailing trend of youth restiveness and social vices in the nation, there is definitely an urgent need to implement measures for effective reorientation of citizens to curb vices, re-orient the people and encourage growth within our society.
“The House is cognizant that the current youth restiveness and social vices in the nation necessitate urgent measures for effective reorientation to curb these vices and promote societal growth.”
In the bid to improve its efficiency, the House urged Federal Government to review the budgetary allocation of the National Orientation Agency in line with current realities in subsequent budget estimates to enable successful re-orientation of citizens.