From mercy Peter
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to embrace literacy as a cornerstone for building national identity, strengthening social cohesion, and addressing poverty, particularly among underserved populations.
The call was made by the Director General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, in a statement issued by Paul Odenyi, Deputy Director, Communication and Media, NOA to commemorate the 2025 World Literacy Day.
He stressed that the celebration offers an important opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the transformative role literacy plays in reducing poverty, fostering lifelong learning, and advancing a more inclusive and equitable society.
According to him, literacy extends beyond the basic ability to read and write. “It serves as a gateway to knowledge, innovation, and meaningful participation in the democratic process,” Issa-Onilu noted.
He urged all stakeholders parents, teachers, community leaders, policymakers, and civil society actors to renew their commitment to advancing literacy as a collective responsibility. He further encouraged children, youths, and adults to embrace reading and continuous learning as a way of life.
The NOA boss also emphasized the importance of strengthening public and community libraries as essential hubs for knowledge acquisition and civic engagement.
He highlighted the need for investment in digital literacy to equip Nigerians for the demands of the 21st-century knowledge economy.
Issa-Onilu particularly called for the removal of barriers to education for vulnerable groups, including women and girls, noting that inclusive literacy development is critical to sustainable national growth.
Reaffirming NOA’s commitment, he said the Agency will continue to leverage its nationwide structures spanning the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and all 774 local government areas—to sensitize, mobilize, and collaborate with stakeholders in promoting literacy as a tool for social cohesion and sustainable development.
“A literate Nigeria is a stronger Nigeria. Together, let us make reading and learning a culture that defines us as a people,” Issa-Onilu declared.
