By Aminu Gambo Adamu Radio Nigeria Globe fm Bauchi.
The National Orientation Agency has launched a nationwide Campus Debate Series to inculcate patriotism,unity, moral values in the minds of the younger ones for them to be intellectually, morally, and patriotically sound.
The debate, with the theme ‘Unity in Diversity’, brings together students from various institutions to engage in intellectual discussions promoting unity, patriotism, and national identity.
Speaking in Lokoja,Kogi state capital NOA Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, said the programme seeks to strengthen national identity while celebrating Nigeria’s diversity.
The initiative, tagged North Central Zonal Campus Debate Series 2025, carries the theme: ‘Unity in Diversity: Defining Nigerian Identity in Nigeria’s Multicultural Society.’
Issa-Onilu, who was represented by North Central Zonal Director, Dr Precilla Gondoalor, described the debate as a strategic platform for civic engagement rather than just a competition.
He urged youths to shun violence, drug abuse, and hooliganism, instead uphold values that promote patriotism and unity.
The NOA DG stressed that the agency had developed platforms to amplify youth voices, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to fostering unity and diversity nationwide.
Issa-Onilu commended NOA’s zonal and state directors, staff, facilitators, and stakeholders for making the debate series a truly nationwide platform for young Nigerians.
Earlier, Kogi State NOA Director, Mr Patrick Edogbanya, praised students, lecturers, traditional rulers, and organisations for actively supporting the agency’s initiatives.
In goodwill messages, Amb. Usman Bello of Jama’atu Nasiru Islam (JNI), and Chief David Agbayi, the Estu Adankolo, lauded the initiative.
They praised NOA’s innovative strategies and firm commitment to fostering unity in diversity across Nigeria.
The competition winner, Miss Gift Adejoh of Federal University Lokoja,who received a certificate for her outstanding performance commended NOA for the initiative, noting it would help Nigerian youths uphold values that promote patriotism and national unity.
