IBADAN – The National Orientation Agency (NOA) under the leadership of Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, the Director General, has commenced nationwide sensitization campaigns on World HIV Day, Security Awareness, Discouragement of Get Rich Quick Syndrome, Human Rights and most importantly, the Tax Reform Bills currently taking the center stage of national discourse.
In a press conference held in Ibadan, Oyo State, the DG, Issa-Onilu, who was ably represented by Dr. Ayoola Olufemi, NOA Director of Health Research and Mobilization, stated that the press conference is geared towards addressing pressing national issues and fostering a more informed, secure and ethical society that will benefit all.
Issa-Onilu in his address further highlights the 5 key issues of national concern and government efforts that need a high level of public awareness and sensitization for national development.
On WORLD HIV/AIDS DAY, “The campaign and sensitization compliment the efforts being made by relevant health authorities with the World HIV/AIDS Day, and NOA joins the global community within the week across the 36 states and FCT, and the 774 local governments in raising awareness.
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“Government intensified efforts to provide free and accessible HIV testing and counselling services nationwide, ensure antiretroviral treatment availability and accessibility to people living with HIV/AIDS, and also partner with local and international organizations to combat stigma and discrimination.”
“It should be noted that, government cannot do it alone and cannot solely win the fight against HIV/AIDS. Citizens must take advantage of the services provided by the government and other entities.”
ON SECURITY AWARENESS, NOA maintained that security remains a top priority of the government, and efforts to address insecurity include but not limited to the strengthening of security architecture through better equipment, training, and increased funding; expanding policing initiatives to improve collaboration between citizens and law enforcement agents; deployment of technology, such as surveillance systems, and intelligence gathering to combat criminal activities. the active support of citizens, who must report suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
ON SHUNNING THE GET-RICH-QUICK SYNDROME, NOA explained that the government recognizes that the erosion of our age long values and economic hardship often drives individuals toward unethical practices.
NOA said the Government has implemented youth empowerment programs such as the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) and skill acquisition initiatives with supported small and medium enterprises grants and loans to promote entrepreneurship.
NOA further posited that, criminalized fraudulent practices, including internet fraud and financial crimes, with increased enforcement lay agencies like the EFCC and ICPC
“Citizens must reject shortcuts to wealth and embrace integrity, hard work, and the opportunities provided through government initiatives to make life better for citizens. In this Yuletide season, the tendency to resort to criminal ways to acquire ill-gotten wealth so as to impress others is heightened.
“The NOA will in this month of December be carrying out nationwide sensitization against the get rich quick syndrome.”
On World Human Rights Day, NOA commemorates World Human Rights Day, assuring that the government remains committed to protecting the dignity of every Nigerian. Recent efforts by the government include strengthening legal frameworks to address human rights violations, including gender-based violence and child trafficking; establishing support centers for survivors of abuse and violence in collaboration with civil society; promoting constitutional awareness to ensure citizens understand their rights and responsibilities.
NOA also maintained that all these efforts can only be successful when citizens stand for justice, respect the rights of others and report violations to the appropriate authorities.
ON THE CURRENT TAX REFORMS, Taxation is essential for funding national development, but we recognize that it has been a source of concern for many Nigerians due to issues like multiple taxation and its impact on low-income earners.
To address these challenges, NOA believes that the government is implementing reforms to make the system fairer and less burdensome for citizens.
“I want to briefly break down the tax reform bills in a very concise and easily understood manner. The tax reform bills are four different bills that seek to bring everything about taxation and administration of tax in Nigeria under four different pieces of legislation.”
“The bills are The Nigeria Tax Bill; The Nigeria Tax Administration Bill; The Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill; and The Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.” Issa-Onilu noted.
“The reforms will benefit everyone as there would be no more double tax, support for low-income earners, simpler and transparent processes, and visible impact of taxes in the nation’s development.” He added.
The Oyo NOA Director, Kemi Afolayan in her brief remarks appreciated the newsmen present for joining the cause of mobilizing Nigerians for the benefit of Nigeria through the exploration of their various news organizations as she leads the sensitization campaign in Oyo State.
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