The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has rolled out a nationwide ‘Campus Debate Series’ designed to nurture Nigerian youths intellectually, morally, and patriotically.

The initiative, themed “Unity in Diversity,” brings students from different higher institutions together to engage in thought-provoking discussions that promote patriotism, unity, and a stronger sense of national identity.

Speaking in Lokoja on Wednesday, NOA’s Director-General, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, explained that the programme was introduced to celebrate Nigeria’s diversity while reinforcing national identity. Tagged the North-Central Zonal Campus Debate Series 2025, the edition carries the theme “Unity in Diversity: Defining Nigerian Identity in Nigeria’s Multicultural Society.”

Issa-Onilu stressed that the debate is much more than a competition. “This debate is a strategic platform for civic engagement,” he said, urging youths to avoid violence, drug abuse, and hooliganism, and instead embrace values that foster patriotism and national unity.

Highlighting the structure of the program, he explained, “The debate follows a three-tier format, with institutions nationwide submitting video entries screened under strict evaluative criteria. The best institutions progress to the national stage in Abuja, coinciding with Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations. The final will be held at the Presidential Villa, where President Bola Tinubu will unveil the National Value Charter, celebrating Nigerian youths’ voices.”

The NOA boss further emphasized the agency’s efforts in building platforms that amplify youth voices, reaffirming its dedication to unity and inclusion across the federation. He also praised NOA’s zonal and state directors, staff, facilitators, and stakeholders for helping make the debate a true national project.

The Kogi State Director of NOA, Patrick Edogbanya, also applauded the participants and supporters. “The Campus Debate Series is a testament to NOA’s dedication to empowering youths and strengthening national identity,” he said.

In separate goodwill messages, Usman Bello of Jama’atu Nasiru Islam and the Estu Adankolo, David Agbayi, commended NOA for its innovative strategies and commitment to nurturing unity in Nigeria’s diversity.

The event concluded with Gift Adejoh of the Federal University Lokoja emerging as the winner, earning a certificate in recognition of her exceptional performance.