EKITI STATE UNIVERSITY ADO EKITI

Course Title: Administrative Law

Course Code:

Assignment
National Orientation agency

Group Members
Ajayi Olanrewaju Olusegun 1906001033
Agbaje Temitayo.O. 1906001028
Akintimehin Oluwatosin Elizabeth -1906001046

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) of Nigeria has its roots in several earlier initiatives
aimed at promoting national consciousness and discipline. Here’s a detailed history of the
NOA, from its inception to its current role:
Predecessor Organizations
Public Enlightenment (PE)
Before the establishment of the NOA, the Public Enlightenment (PE) department was
responsible for informing and educating the Nigerian populace about government policies
and programs. It aimed to bridge the Gap between the government and the people through
effective communication.
War Against Indiscipline (WAI)
Launched in March 1984 by the military regime of General Muhammadu Buhari, the War
Against Indiscipline (WAI) was an initiative aimed at instilling a culture of discipline,
orderliness, and patriotic zeal among Nigerians. The campaign was notable for its strict
measures and public enforcement, which included tasks such as queue culture and
environmental sanitation.

National Orientation Movement (NOM)

The National Orientation Movement (NOM) was another initiative designed to promote
national values and unity. It focused on mobilizing Nigerians towards understanding and
supporting government policies and fostering a sense of national pride.

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) of Nigeria is a governmental body established with
the primary aim of enlightening and orienting Nigerian citizens on various issues concerning
national interest, unity, and development. Here is an in-depth look at its background, objectives,
functions, structure, and activities:

Background
The National Orientation Agency was created in 1993 through Decree 100, which merged three
former bodies: the Public Enlightenment (PE), War Against Indiscipline (WAI), and the National
Orientation Movement (NOM). This consolidation was aimed at creating a single, more effective
body for the dissemination of information and promotion of national values.

Objectives:
The main objectives of the NOA include:
1. Promotion of National Unity: Encouraging a sense of patriotism and national pride among
Nigerians.
2. Public Enlightenment: Disseminating information on government policies, programs, and
activities to ensure citizens are well-informed.
3. National Integration: Promoting understanding and cooperation among Nigeria’s diverse
ethnic, religious, and cultural groups.
4. Behavioral Change: Encouraging positive behavioral change and fostering a culture of
discipline, hard work, and integrity.
5. Civic Responsibilities: Educating citizens on their rights and responsibilities to ensure active
and informed participation in the democratic process.

National Unity and Integration: Promoting a sense of national identity and unity among
Nigerians, regardless of ethnic, religious, or regional differences.

Social Mobilization: Encouraging the populace to participate actively in national development

efforts, fostering a spirit of self-reliance and community involvement.

Cultural Promotion: Preserving and promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage, values, and traditions
to strengthen national pride and identity.

Behavioral Change Communication: Promoting positive behavioral changes in areas such as

health, sanitation, environmental protection, and other aspects of social life.

Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding: Engaging in activities that promote peace, conflict
resolution, and the prevention of violence and unrest within the country.

Policy Advocacy: Providing feedback to the government on public opinions and reactions to
policies, ensuring that the voices of the citizens are heard in the policy-making process

Functions
The NOA carries out a wide range of functions to achieve its objectives:
1. Information Dissemination: Through various media channels, including radio, television,
print, and social media, the NOA informs the public about government initiatives and policies.
2. Public Campaigns: Organizing campaigns on critical issues such as health, education, electoral
processes, environmental sustainability, and national security.
3. Community Engagement: Conducting grassroots mobilization and community-based programs
to foster national consciousness and participation.
4. Research and Documentation: Undertaking research to understand public opinion and
sentiments, which helps in shaping government policies and programs.
5. Training and Capacity Building: Providing training programs to enhance the capacity of
individuals and organizations in understanding and promoting national values.

Structure
The NOA operates under the leadership of a Director-General, who is appointed by the President
of Nigeria. The agency has a national presence with offices in all 36 states and the Federal
Capital Territory (FCT). Its structure includes:
1. Headquarters: Located in Abuja, it houses the central administrative and operational units.
2. State Offices: Each state has a NOA office that coordinates activities at the state level.
3. Local Government Offices: These offices ensure the agency’s reach extends to the grassroots.
Office Structure
The Composition of the Agency Board of Directors comprise of the following
1. Executive Leadership
Director General: The top executive responsible for the overall strategic direction,
management, and operations of the agency.
Deputy Director General: Assists the Director General and may oversee specific departments
or programs.
2. Board of Directors
Chairman of the Board: Leads the board meetings and ensures the implementation of the
agency’s strategic goals. Which shall be appointed by the president and must be a retired
practitioner in Education, Law, media General Management or Administration, he/ she must
be a person of proven integrity, ability and Character
 Board Members: Comprise representatives from various sectors to provide diverse
perspectives and guidance.

Activities
The NOA engages in various activities to fulfill its mandate:

1. Public Enlightenment Programs: These include town hall meetings, seminars, workshops,
and symposiums on relevant national issues.

2. Media Campaigns: Leveraging traditional and digital media platforms to disseminate

information and engage with the public.

3. Collaborations and Partnerships: Working with other government agencies, non-

governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based organizations (CBOs), and
international partners to amplify its reach and impact.

4. Special Projects: Implementing special projects like the National Values Campaign.
5. Enlightenment of the general public on the Government policy

6. Mobilization of public opinion and support for Government policies, programs and
activities.

7. Collect, collation, analysis and provisions of feedback of the public to the federal
government on it policy’s.

8. Establish social institution and framework for deliberate exposure of Nigerians to

Democratic values and norms for the peaceful, united and progressive Society.

9. Arouse the consciousness of all categories of Nigeria on their rights and privileges
Challenges
The NOA faces several challenges in executing its mandate effectively:
1. Funding Constraints: Limited financial resources can hinder the agency’s ability to carry
out its programs comprehensively.

2. Public Perception: Overcoming skepticism and apathy among the public regarding
government initiatives and information.
3. Technological Advancements: Keeping up with the rapid changes in communication
technology to effectively reach a diverse and dynamic audience.

4. Cultural and Ethnic Diversity: Addressing the unique needs and perspectives of Nigeria’s
various ethnic and cultural groups while promoting national unity.

Conclusion
The National Orientation Agency plays a critical role in fostering national unity, civic
responsibility, and public enlightenment in Nigeria. By addressing the challenges it faces
and leveraging modern communication tools and strategies, the NOA can enhance its
effectiveness in promoting national values and contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic
development.