NOA commences nationwide sensitisation campaign on HIV, security, tax reforms

By Abubakar Yunusa

Lanre Issa-Onilu, director-general (DG) of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), says the agency has commenced a nationwide sensitisation campaign on HIV/AIDS, security consciousness, get-rich-quick syndrome, human rights, and tax reforms.

Issa-Onilu spoke in Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital, on Wednesday during a news conference to flag off the sensitisation campaign.

He noted that there is a need for the sensitisation campaign of the five critical issues as they are central to the nation’s well-being, unity, and development.

The director-general, who was represented by Olufunke Salako, the NOA director in Ogun, said ‘promoting awareness, ethical value, and national development’ is the theme of the sensitisation campaign.

“Today, we are commencing a nationwide mobilisation of Nigerians in our commitment to addressing these pressing issues and fostering a more informed, secure, and ethical society,” he said.

“The challenges before us require collective action and active participation from all Nigerians.

“This campaign toward HIV/AIDS complements the efforts being made by relevant health authorities and coincides with World HIV/AIDS Day, which was marked on December 1.

“We also join the global community within the week across the 36 states, the FCT, and the 774 local governments in raising awareness.”

He added that the government had intensified efforts in providing free and accessible HIV testing and counseling services nationwide.

Issa-Onilu noted that the government also ensures antiretroviral treatment is available and accessible to people living with HIV/AIDS and partners with local and international organisations to combat stigma and discrimination.

“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 behaviours, and support those living with HIV/AIDS,” he said.

“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.

The NOA DG said the government had implemented youth empowerment programmes and skills acquisition initiatives to address the get-rich-quick syndrome.

“Citizens must reject shortcuts to wealth and embrace integrity, hard work, and the opportunities provided through government initiatives to make life better for citizens,” he said.

“In this Yuletide season, the tendency to resort to criminal ways to acquire ill-gotten wealth so as to impress others is heightened.”