The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, has called on Nigerians to embrace the country’s rich cultural diversity as a foundation for national progress.
Issa-Onilu conveyed this message during the Southeast zonal final of the ongoing National Campus Debate, held in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, where tertiary institution students competed face-to-face.
He emphasized that the NOA’s 2025 National Campus Debate transcends mere rivalry, serving as a platform to reinforce core national principles.
Speaking through the NOA’s zonal director, Regina Iroha, he highlighted the significance of the debate’s theme: “Unity in Diversity: Defining National Identity in Nigeria’s Multicultural Society.”
“This theme invites all Nigerians, particularly the youth, to deeply reflect on the essence of Nigerian identity, to recognize how our varied backgrounds can be harnessed as strengths, and to propose ideas that foster a more united and equitable nation,” he explained.
Issa-Onilu took the opportunity to address young Nigerians directly, urging them to embody the values championed by the debate as they approach graduation or continue their academic pursuits.
“I encourage you to reject any harmful graduation traditions, especially those linked to violence, insecurity, or cultism, as these are alien to our cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs,” he warned.
Congratulating all participants for reaching this stage, the DG affirmed that every contestant has already proven themselves as advocates of national unity, regardless of the final outcome.
In her remarks, Gloria Abiakan, head of the Federal Information Centre in the state, praised the contestants for their passionate and fair engagement, stating, “Whether or not you claim the trophy, you are all champions of a more inclusive Nigeria.”
Announcing the competition results, former NOA state director Ngozi Uduma revealed that the College of Nursing Sciences and Midwifery, Ebonyi, secured first place with 63.2%, followed closely by Shanahan University, Anambra, with 62.2%.
She further noted the rankings of other institutions: Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo, placed third with 61.2%; Nigeria British University, Abia, came fourth with 60.8%; and Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu, finished fifth with 60.6%.
Responding on behalf of the winning team, their coach, Matachi Ayegba, expressed pride in their achievement and pledged continued dedication to securing victory for the zone in the national finals.
Earlier, Victor Orji, the NOA state director, welcomed the participants, emphasizing that the event offers a valuable chance for students to engage with a complex and timely national issue while sharpening their critical thinking abilities.
“Dear students, as you delve into this important intellectual challenge, on behalf of the state directorate, I warmly welcome you to God’s Own State,” he concluded.
