The Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, announced that the federal government is incorporating a new Citizenship Study into the school curriculum. This initiative, part of the recently approved National Values Charter, aims to teach history alongside core values to strengthen national identity and character.
Issa-Onilu revealed this at the Shape-A-Child initiative’s jigsaw puzzle competition in Lagos, marking World Values Day. He emphasised the government’s commitment to promoting values through the National Values Charter and other innovative programmes to enhance students’ education.
“In shaping future leaders, values must be embedded in our education system,” he said, adding that Citizen Brigades will be introduced in primary and secondary schools, with 1,000 students from each state participating this year. These brigades aim to instil good citizenship and courage in young learners.
He also raised concerns about the negative impact of foreign cartoons on Nigerian culture, stating, “We will prioritise promoting cartoons that reflect our heritage and lifestyle.”
Issa-Onilu commended the Shape-A-Child initiative, praising its inspiring work and pledging to support its growth.
Izehi Anuge, founder of the Shape-A-Child Initiative, welcomed Issa-Onilu’s presence, saying, “His visit highlights the government’s renewed focus on values, especially for young learners. The integration of values into the national curriculum is a transformative step for the country.”
Mrs. Abosede Padonu, Guidance and Counselling Officer for Eti-Osa Local Government Education Authority, praised the Shape-A-Child initiative, calling World Values Day a wonderful experience for both students and educators. She noted that the children learned key values such as tolerance, honesty, and teamwork, which they are now taking back to their schools.
Padonu expressed hope that the initiative would become a regular event, allowing more children to internalise these values and apply them in their lives.
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