By Isaiah Eka
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have deepen ties to foster national orientation and enhance voter education in the country.
The Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre stated this during a courtesy visit on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.
Issa-Onilu outlined the agency’s mandate of communicating government policies and fostering value reorientation and national identity.
He said that the agency’s structure, with offices in all 774 local government areas across the 36 states of the federation , and FCT positions NOA as a natural vehicle for mass public engagement.
“The agency regularly submits public feedback to the presidency and major institutions to shape policy and gauge public sentiment.
“Patriotism cannot be legislated but must be cultivated through emotional and psychological bonds,” he said.
The DG said the collaboration with INEC would ensure citizens were not only informed but also engaged and cooperate in electoral processes.
He said NOA has expanded its departments from 12 to 16, introducing a new Civic, Value, and Democracy Education Department to bridge civic knowledge gaps, particularly among the youth.
The DG highlighted the challenges posed by misinformation during the last election, especially on social media platforms, and proposed enhanced voter education campaigns targeting young people.
Responding, INEC Chairman, Yakubu expressed appreciation for NOA’s renewed drive under Issa-Onilu’s leadership.
Yakubu acknowledged the agency’s innovative use of digital tools, including NOA TV, radio, and AI-based communication platforms to reach out to Nigerians.
He pledged support to the proposed partnership expansion, especially in engaging marginalised groups such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
INEC chairman reaffirmed NOA’s role in key electoral committees, including the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security and the soon-to-be-restructured National Committee on Voter Education and Publicity.
