By Isaiah Eka
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged the traditional institution and other stakeholders in Akwa Ibom to embrace acts that promote unity, peace and development.
Mr Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, NOA Director in Akwa Ibom, made the call at the opening of the national cohesion campaign on Tuesday in Ukam, Mkpat Enim.
Mkpoutom said that it was the duty of the traditional rulers and other leadership institutions to preach against crime, violence and other social vices within their communities.
Speaking at the event which brought together traditional rulers, youths, women and opinion leaders, the NOA chief said that Nigeria’s unity should be protected by every citizen.
“We should collectively shun any act capable of truncating national unity and progress, let’s embrace national cohesion as a pathway to development.
“Let us discourage piracy, kidnapping, illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, youth restiveness among others. They are detrimental to the development of the nation,” he said.
He urged Akwa Ibom people to see the state’s rich cultural diversity, abundant natural resources, and vibrant population as a unique identity and tool for national cohesion.
“National cohesion fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance among the citizens of a nation or community that transcends ethnic, religious and cultural differences.
“We need to coexist peacefully, national cohesion will among other things promote a more harmonious society where collaboration and mutual respect flourish,” he said. NAN
