From TCNEWS
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) have joined forces in Abia State to intensify the promotion of peace, national unity, and community engagement, a timely intervention amid Nigeria’s ongoing security and socio-political challenges, in a powerful show of institutional synergy.
The engagement unfolded at the NSCDC Command Headquarters, Umuahia, where NOA State Director, Comrade Victor Orji, led a high-level advocacy visit to the NSCDC on Thursday. He was received by Deputy Commandant Raphael Eledewo, who represented the Abia State Commandant, Mr. Akinsola Aderemi.
In his speech, Deputy Commandant Eledewo emphasized that “There can be no meaningful development without peace,” setting the tone for what became a compelling exchange focused on national cohesion. He lauded Abia State’s relative tranquility, attributing it to consistent collaboration among government bodies, civil society actors, and local communities.
Drawing from his previous deployment in Kwara State, Eledewo argued that inclusive governance and equitable distribution of resources are essential in bridging divides and fostering national identity. He further applauded the initiative as a strategic avenue to enhance civic awareness and public-security synergy.
For the NOA, the visit formed part of its nationwide campaign titled “Pathway to National Cohesion, Development and Unity.” Comrade Orji described the campaign as a call to action aimed at addressing the root causes of Nigeria’s unrest, from insurgency and banditry to communal conflicts and political polarization.
“Our goal is to build a Nigeria where mutual respect, unity, and shared national identity triumph over division,” Orji stated.
He urged key institutions, including security agencies, traditional councils, political leaders, religious bodies, and the media, to intensify efforts toward peacebuilding and inter-ethnic dialogue, highlighting the Identity Project Document introduced by NOA Director-General Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu as a blueprint for inclusion and equality in government communication.
A highlight of the visit was a roundtable discussion between NSCDC and NOA officers, where strategies were debated on improving civic education, intelligence sharing, and rebuilding public trust in state institutions. Officers noted the importance of community policing, social equity, and the federal character principle as cornerstones of sustainable peace.
The federal character issue sparked meaningful dialogue, with participants calling for greater transparency and education on how national resources are allocated. Orji responded by reaffirming NOA’s commitment to inclusive governance and public enlightenment on constitutional principles.
“We must rebuild the social contract between the people and government. Without public trust, development efforts will stall,” Orji asserted.
Nigeria’s journey toward stability and inclusive development continues to be undermined by security threats, ethnic tensions, and a widening trust gap between the government and the governed. The collaboration between NSCDC and NOA in Abia represents a blueprint for restoring this trust, by uniting security and civic education in a common mission for peace.
This alliance serves as a model for other states, reminding Nigerians that real development begins with unity, dialogue, and inclusive governance. The message is clear: peace is not an abstract ideal, it is a strategic necessity.
The visit climaxed with a renewed pledge by both agencies to deepen cooperation through grassroots mobilization, public sensitization, and civic engagement. NSCDC officials reaffirmed their commitment to being community-focused security actors, while NOA promised sustained support in reshaping public perception of security agencies and promoting national unity.
