By Abubakar Rabilu Gombe

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has initiated a nationwide sensitization campaign targeting five critical issues pivotal to Nigeria’s growth: HIV/AIDS awareness, security, human rights, ethical values, and tax reforms.

Speaking during the launch in Gombe, the Director General of the NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, represented by Alhaji Nura Yusuf Kobi, Director of Planning, Research, and Strategy, emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing these challenges.

“This campaign is a clarion call for every Nigerian to unite and drive positive change. The time to act is now,” Issa-Onilu declared.

He said the campaign, aligning with World HIV/AIDS Day, aims to promote awareness, encourage free testing, and ensure access to antiretroviral treatments. “This fight is not for one person it’s a collective effort,” said Issa-Onilu,

Urging Nigerians to support government initiatives, adopt healthier lifestyles, and eliminate the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.

Addressing Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, the NOA is urging citizens to actively collaborate with law enforcement agencies and remain vigilant.

“Security begins with personal responsibility, emphasized, calling on Nigerians to report suspicious activities and contribute to national safety.

The campaign targets unethical practices linked to economic pressures, especially during the festive season. It highlights government-backed youth empowerment and skill acquisition programs as viable alternatives to fraudulent shortcuts. “The road to success lies in hard work and integrity,” the Director General noted, encouraging Nigerians to shun quick-money schemes.

He explained that In line with World Human Rights Day, the NOA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens’ rights while urging them to fulfill their civic responsibilities. The campaign also spotlights initiatives to tackle gender-based violence and support survivors of abuse.

Onilu, said the agency has also prioritized educating Nigerians on ongoing tax reforms aimed at fairness and transparency. These reforms, designed to simplify the tax system, are expected to reduce burdens and foster compliance among all income groups

In her response to The Director Gombe, State Adaline Waye Patari she said she took the campaign to local communities, engaging stakeholders and the media. She emphasized the interconnected nature of these issues, highlighting their collective importance in building a healthier, safer, and more ethical society.

Adaline said this is not just a campaign but a movement that touches every Nigerian. Together, we can create a brighter future for all,

She called on media, civil society, and community leaders to amplify the campaign’s messages and encouraged citizens to take ownership of the initiative, stressing that nation-building is everyone’s responsibility.

Adding that the NOA’s campaign envisions a Nigeria where health, security, justice, and ethical values form the foundation of national development, adding that with collective efforts, we can overcome these challenges and leave a legacy of progress and unity for future generations,

In a bid to enhance collaboration and foster synergy between the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and law enforcement agencies, Mrs. Chinwe Nnenna Nwachukwu, the recently appointed NYSC Coordinator, embarked on a courtesy visit to the Gombe State Police Headquarters on April 12, 2024.

According to her the purpose of the visit was clear – to strengthen the bond between the NYSC and the Nigeria Police Force, with a shared goal of promoting community development and ensuring the safety and well-being of corps members and the broader community.

During her address, Mrs. Nwachukwu expressed sincere appreciation for the warm reception received and underscored the significance of partnership between the NYSC and the police force. She highlighted the pivotal role of such collaboration in creating a safe environment conducive to the personal and professional growth of youth corps members.

In his response, Commissioner of Police Cp. Hayatu Usman Psc echoed Mrs. Nwachukwu’s sentiments, acknowledging the invaluable contribution of the NYSC in empowering Nigerian youth and fostering national development. He reassured the NYSC Coordinator of the Gombe State Police Command’s unwavering support and commitment to shared objectives.

The visit serves as a testament to the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing the multifaceted challenges confronting Nigerian youth and communities. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between the NYSC and law enforcement agencies, such engagements are instrumental in building a safer and more prosperous society.

This initiative underscores the commitment of both the NYSC and the Nigeria Police Force to working hand in hand towards the collective goal of ensuring the safety, security, and prosperity of Nigerian communities. Through continued collaboration and partnership, they aim to create an enabling environment where Nigerian youth can thrive and contribute meaningfully to nation-building efforts.

By Yakubu Maikudi

In a compelling Jummat sermon delivered to the congregation at Aliyu Modibbo Street, Jummaat Mosque, Dawaki Quarters, Gombe metropolis, Sheikh Dalhat Tukur Muhammad, the Chief Imam of Masjid Ummah Jummat Mosque, called upon the Muslim Ummah to refrain from engaging in social vices that could compromise the sincerity of their fasting intentions.

Sheikh Dalhat Tukur Muhammad emphasized that fasting entails more than mere abstention from food and desires; it encompasses a multitude of ibadat, or acts of worship, which all devout Muslims should consider. He stressed the importance of controlling one’s gaze, restraining the tongue, and avoiding any behavior that may detract from the sanctity of the fast, as instructed by Almighty Allah.

Quoting the hadith of Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), the Imam reiterated that fasting is not solely about refraining from food and drink but also requires abstaining from falsehood and immoral actions. He emphasized that Allah does not require mere abstinence from food and drink if one continues to engage in sinful behavior.

Furthermore, Sheikh Dalhat Tukur Muhammad referenced another hadith reported by Abu Hurairah, in which the Messenger of Allah advised Muslims observing fasts to refrain from obscene language and to maintain a peaceful demeanor, even in the face of provocation.

Drawing from the teachings of Islam, the Imam highlighted the importance of safeguarding one’s fast by adhering to righteous conduct at all times. He urged Muslims to remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the sanctity of fasting, regardless of the challenges they may face.

Concluding the sermon, Sheikh Dalhat Tukur Muhammad led the congregation in the two Jummat congregational prayers, underscoring the significance of unity and devotion within the Muslim community during the holy month of fasting.