Mallam Isa Lanre-Onilu, Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), awarded the National Values Charter Plaque to the Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) in acknowledgment of their steadfast commitment to national unity, patriotism, and their exemplary role as responsible citizens that bridge religious gaps to foster inclusivity.
While welcoming the NCYP delegation during their courtesy visit to the NOA headquarters, the Director General praised the group’s dedication to nation-building.
He highlighted their boldness and foresight in backing the Tinubu/Shettima presidential ticket during the 2023 elections, which was a difficult choice, especially within Christian communities in Northern Nigeria.
He remarked: “I have known this group for some time. You took a commendable stand to support President Tinubu’s Muslim-Muslim ticket amidst considerable opposition. Now, the wisdom of that choice is becoming clear through the visionary leadership being showcased—ensuring fair representation in appointments, governance reforms, and a commitment to inclusive growth.
“This alone makes you deserving of the National Values Charter, which reflects the ideals of citizenship and patriotism.”
Mr. Isaac Abrak, Chairman of NCYP, who led the group, indicated that they are made up of Christian professionals from the 19 Northern states and the FCT – Abuja. They actively engage in politics to enhance the welfare of citizens throughout the region and Nigeria overall.
He pointed out that their political decisions are made based on merit, equity, and the goal of constructing a tolerant and unified society, focusing on strengthening relationships between Christians and Muslims in political arenas.
Abrak also acknowledged the transformative influence of President Tinubu’s leadership, particularly during his time as Governor of Lagos State. He noted how Tinubu’s strategic management of local government frameworks and the reformation of street youths, commonly referred to as ‘Area Boys,’ turned them into valuable societal contributors, increasing Lagos’s Internally Generated Revenue from N6 billion to N11 billion monthly. These significant reforms form the basis of their support for fully implementing the Supreme Court ruling on Local Government Financial Autonomy.
He emphasized that local government financial autonomy is a citizen-centered policy that requires grassroots involvement. Mr. Abrak offered NCYP’s broad leadership network—covering national, state, local, and ward levels, with over 30,000 personnel—to partner with the 774 NOA offices nationwide to advocate for and implement this vital policy.
“The NCYP is deeply connected to the grassroots,” Abrak stated. “We are eager to collaborate with NOA to raise public awareness and ensure that local government autonomy brings development to every Nigerian’s doorstep.”
In closing, the NOA DG encouraged all Nigerians to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration, pointing to key projects such as the 700 km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the creation of Regional Development Commissions as initiatives that will drive economic growth and provide support across all regions.
