The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has declared that ethical leadership anchored on integrity, accountability and public trust remains the foundation for sustainable national development, urging Nigerians to embrace values that strengthen institutions and promote national unity.
The position was presented by the North-East Zonal Director of the Agency, Mallam Nuru Yusuf Kobi, who represented the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, during a panel session on “Ethical Leadership and National Development” at the Ethical Heroes Award Conference held in Bauchi.
Addressing participants drawn from government institutions, security agencies, traditional and religious institutions, academia, the private sector, civil society organisations and development partners, Kobi said ethical leadership is measured not by position or title but by a consistent commitment to doing what is right, even when no one is watching.
He stressed that integrity should become a daily habit guiding both individual and institutional conduct, noting that every honest action by public servants, security personnel, traders, teachers, community leaders and ordinary citizens contributes to building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
According to him, public trust is the bedrock of good governance, peaceful coexistence and economic growth.
He explained that citizens are more willing to support government when they trust their leaders, investors are encouraged to commit resources when public institutions are credible, and young people are more likely to embrace hard work than shortcuts when they believe in the system.
The NOA , in a statement by Bala Musa,Director, Communication and Media in the agency, warned that corruption, abuse of office and unethical conduct continue to erode public confidence, weaken institutions and hinder national progress, adding that restoring trust requires ethical leadership at every level of society.
Highlighting the Agency’s ongoing value reorientation campaign, Kobi said the National Values Charter provides a practical framework that outlines the shared responsibilities of government and citizens in promoting patriotism, integrity, discipline, fairness, peaceful coexistence and responsible citizenship.
He stated further that through its nationwide network across states, local government areas and communities, the Agency continues to engage Nigerians in their local languages, taking messages of national values directly to homes, schools, markets, places of worship and traditional institutions to encourage lasting behavioural change.
The Agency also called on public institutions, security agencies, educational institutions, religious organisations, professional bodies, civil society groups and the private sector to institutionalise ethical values by promoting transparency, accountability, fairness and selfless service.
Kobi maintained that Nigeria’s future depends on building a culture where integrity becomes a habit, habits inspire trust and trust drives sustainable national development.
He summed up the Agency’s message with the words: “Integrity leads to Habit, Habit builds Trust, and Trust drives Development.”
The National Orientation Agency reaffirmed its commitment to promoting ethical leadership, civic responsibility and value reorientation as essential ingredients for a united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
