...observe National Ordinance Day

The National Orientation Agency, NOA Abia State, Wednesday, defied the rain to observe the National Ordinance Day which aimed at imparting in the consciousness of Nigerians the correct features of Nigeria's national symbols.

These National symbols include the Nigeria flag, the National Anthem, the National Pledge, Coat of Arms, Nigerian Constitution, the Nigerian National currency, the Nigerian Passport and the Nigerian National Identity Card.

In her address during the event in Umuahia, the Abia State Director, National Orientation Agency, Dr. Lady Ngozi Okechukwu pointed out that the year 2020 ordinance day celebration is most distinct because it afforded the agency the platform to advance the message of building a people of peace; ushered in the 60th independence celebration of Nigeria; the agency collaborated with the state Ministry of Homeland Security to harness efforts and synergy in promoting the national symbols and fourthly, the Celebration came within the COVID-19 global pandemic, which had a long-lasting economic, human, educational, and social consequences on the Nigerian citizenry's lives.

Her words, "Every September 16, the National Orientation Agency commemorates the National Ordinance Day Celebration. As part of NOA mandate in promoting National core values and attitudinal reorientation of Nigerians, National Ordinance Day aims to promote more understanding on what national symbols stand for, the display, treatment and its correct usage following the unpatriotic disposition of some Nigerians who abuse the country's national symbols.

"The national symbols are expected to unite Nigerians by creating visual, verbal, or iconic representations of the people, values, goals, or history. These symbols are often rallied around as part of celebrations of patriotism or aspiring nationalism. An analysis of the background of Nigerian National symbols gives clear ideas of the various aspects of Nigerian life".

The Abia NOA boss who reminded Nigerians that there is no effective medication to completely stem the Coronavirus spread, hence the need to follow the protocol and guidelines of health experts and authentic government sources, maintained that only a harmonious coexistence will set the stage for compliance with the protocols of COVID-19.

Dr. Okechukwu further reminded Nigerians that it is much more critical to promote the principles of love, unity, and respect behind the national symbols, adding, "If patriotism is instilled in our youths, women, and all people, then driving people to follow government guidelines will be a walkover rather than rumours and misconceptions from quacks.

Speaking respectively, the Commissioner for Homeland Security, Chief Dan Okoli and State Commissioner of Police, CP Janet Agbede reminded Nigerians that indiscriminate abuse of the national symbols attracts some punishments as provided by the law and lauded NOA for re-orientating the people and inculcating in them the right attitude towards the national symbols.