In a significant move to restore declining moral standards among the youth, the Federal Government has approved the creation of the National Citizens Value Brigade across primary and secondary schools nationwide.
This initiative seeks to address the concerns surrounding the gradual erosion of good morals and values among young Nigerians, which has led to increasing levels of misconduct.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the announcement after Monday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. He explained that the brigade would help instill a renewed sense of values and traditions in students, fostering responsible citizenship and pride in national identity.
Idris highlighted the government’s recognition of the growing moral decline, particularly among younger generations, and emphasized the need to reinforce core values that once defined Nigeria. “The council today approved various measures to bolster our national value system, with the most notable being the establishment of the National Citizens Value Brigade in schools,” he said.
To further support this effort, the Federal Government will introduce a National Value Charter into school curricula, ensuring that national symbols and values are consistently taught. This charter will also be adopted by government officials, who will undergo training on national values and symbols at the start of each administration. “This includes the national flag, the Naira notes, and other symbols that represent our identity as a nation,” Idris added.
Additionally, the National Orientation Agency will lead a campaign to reeducate the public on the correct use of national symbols, such as displaying the national flag in public buildings, offices, and vehicles.
The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, announced that the implementation of the new school curricula is set to begin in October 2024. He pointed out that while civic education is already a mandatory subject, concerns remain about the deterioration of social values. The updated curricula will integrate not only knowledge and values but also skills that align with economic demands, equipping students with practical abilities for the future.
Mamman also mentioned the Federal Executive Council’s approval of the construction of a new Senate building for the University of Ibadan, marking a significant development for the institution, and the allocation of funds for the National Examinations Council (NECO) to conduct assessments nationwide.
