When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Lanre Issa-Onilu as the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), it wasn’t merely an administrative reshuffle. It was a call to revive the moral foundation of a nation struggling with civic decline and national disconnection. In less than two years, Issa-Onilu has transformed the NOA from a dormant government body into an active platform for value reorientation, national renewal, and behavioural change.
Restoring the Soul of the Agency
Before his assumption of office, the NOA was widely regarded as one of the most underperforming federal agencies existing in name, but die in presence. Issa-Onilu recognized that neglect and moved swiftly to restructure its operations, rebuild staff morale, and reposition the agency to meet 21st-century demands.
He has often said that Nigeria’s real challenge isn’t just economic or political it is a moral and attitudinal crisis. Through that lens, he is redefining the NOA’s mission, to make every Nigerian aware that patriotism, honesty, and civic responsibility are not mere slogans but instruments of national survival.
Campaigns that Connect the People,
Under Issa-Onilu’s leadership, the NOA has reintroduced grassroots campaigns in all 774 local government areas, with special attention to schools, youth groups, and traditional institutions.
From the Value Reorientation Campaign in Benue State to the promotion of citizenship education in schools, these programmes are rekindling civic awareness. His strategy is clear if Nigeria must change, the change must begin with the citizens understanding who they are and what their nation stands for.
He has also pushed for media innovation in civic education. By promoting cartoons and creative content that reflect Nigeria’s heritage, Issa-Onilu is taking the message of national values to where the next generation listens screens, phones, and classrooms.
One of Issa-Onilu most significant contributions is restoring credibility to government communication. In an era of misinformation and public distrust, he has insisted that the NOA must serve as a two-way bridge between government and the governed.
Under his watch, the agency doesn’t just announce policies, it explains them, simplifies them, and collects citizens’ feedback. His belief is that governance without communication is confusion and orientation without example is hypocrisy.
From Ilorin to the National Stage
A native of Ilorin, Kwara State, Issa-Onilu’s rise from journalism and public communication into national service has been marked by discipline, intellect, and commitment to reform. His background as a journalist and public relations strategist shows in how he runs the NOA, with storytelling, symbolism, and a sense of timing.
