NOA Unveils Strategy for 70% Indigenous Cartoons to Foster Nigerian Values
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has announced an ambitious initiative to ensure that at least 70 per cent of cartoons consumed by Nigerian children are rooted in indigenous culture and values. This move is designed to counteract the influence of foreign media and reinforce national identity among the youth.
Promoting Cultural Content for Young Audiences
Director-General Lanre Issa-Onilu revealed the plan during a meeting with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in Abuja. He emphasized that early exposure to culturally relevant content is crucial for developing responsible citizenship and shaping positive values in children who are increasingly bombarded with international media.
"We are working towards ensuring that at least 70 per cent of cartoons consumed by Nigerian children reflect our culture and values," Issa-Onilu stated. He highlighted that this effort is part of a broader campaign by the NOA to drive value reorientation, civic education, and national identity building across Nigeria.
Expanding Civic Education and National Initiatives
The NOA, which operates through a network of over 800 offices nationwide, evolved from the MAMSER framework and focuses on grassroots engagement. Issa-Onilu also stressed the importance of sustained voter and civic education ahead of upcoming general elections, particularly targeting young people who form a significant portion of the population.
"Emerging digital influences and foreign content are reshaping values, sometimes negatively. This makes structured civic engagement more critical than ever," he added. To address this, the agency has developed the Nigerian Identity Project under the National Values Charter, based on a "seven-for-seven" principle that outlines mutual responsibilities between the government and citizens.
Educational Reforms and Inclusion Efforts
In related developments, the Federal Executive Council has approved the reintroduction of Citizenship Studies into school curricula at all levels. Issa-Onilu called for a shift from quota-based approaches to tackling deeper structural and cultural barriers that limit women's participation in leadership roles.
Collaboration with Media and Civil Society
During the visit, NAWOJ National President Aishatu Ibrahim expressed support for deepening collaboration on civic and voter education, ethical journalism, and combating misinformation. She proposed a joint initiative including:
- Nationwide training workshops
- Community outreach programmes targeting women and youth
- Development of civic education materials in local languages
- Coordinated media campaigns to encourage informed participation
Zubair Jide Atta, a member of NAWOJ's Board of Trustees, emphasized the need to strengthen national values and integrate media and information literacy into the education system to support these efforts.
