Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Issa Lanre-Onilu, has commended the Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) for their steadfast commitment to national unity and patriotism.
The praise came during a presentation of the national values charter in Abuja, where the NCYP was recognised for its inclusive approach and contributions to nation-building, particularly for transcending religious divides.
Mallam Onilu highlighted the group’s courageous support for President Bola Tinubu’s Muslim-Muslim ticket during the 2023 elections, a stance taken despite significant opposition, particularly from Christian communities in Northern Nigeria.
“I have known this group for quite some time.
“Notably, you took a principled stand to support President Tinubu’s ticket when many others opposed it.
“Today, the wisdom behind that decision is evident through visionary leadership, fair representation in appointments, and a commitment to inclusive development”, he said.
The NOA chief described the NCYP’s actions as embodying the principles of the National Values Charter, earning them recognition for their exemplary citizenship.
He urged Nigerians to rally behind Tinubu’s administration, citing transformative projects such as the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and creating Regional Development Commissions to drive economic growth and regional equity.
Speaking on behalf of the NCYP, Chairman Mr Isaac Abrak reiterated the group’s mission to promote merit, equity, and unity.
Comprising Christian professionals from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, the NCYP actively engages in politics to enhance citizens’ welfare and foster Christian-Muslim harmony.
Abrak pointed to Tinubu’s track record as Lagos State Governor, where reforms transformed street youth into productive citizens and boosted the state’s revenue from N6 billion to N11 billion monthly, as a key reason for their support.
He offered the NCYP’s network of over 30,000 members across national, state, local government, and ward levels to partner with the NOA’s 774 offices nationwide to advocate for and implement the policy.
“The NCYP remains connected to the grassroots,” he said.
“We are ready to collaborate with NOA to ensure local government autonomy delivers development to every Nigerian.”
