Alhaji Ali Audu, the newly appointed Zonal Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) for the North East Zone
By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Alhaji Ali Audu, the newly appointed Zonal Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) for the North East Zone, has praised the federal government’s reform agenda, particularly the creation of zonal offices nationwide.
During a working visit to the Borno State NOA Directorate in Maiduguri, Audu committed to prioritizing staff welfare, recruitment, and the execution of federal programs to tackle the agency’s challenges.
Speaking at the formal launch of the North East Zonal Directorate, covering Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe, Audu hailed the initiative as a landmark achievement.
“The zonal directorate system, introduced by Director-General Mal. Lanre Issa-Onilu, strengthens oversight and implementation of NOA’s mandate,” he said.
He noted that the agency, established in 1987 as MAMSER, plays a critical role in shaping Nigeria’s value system.
Audu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for appointing Issa-Onilu, whose leadership has driven significant progress in just 18 months.
He urged staff to view their roles as a patriotic mission to rebuild Nigeria’s ethical foundation, emphasizing projects like the National Identity Project.
Audu also highlighted the media’s vital role in information dissemination and encouraged staff to engage stakeholders, stay informed on current affairs, and master NOA’s history and tools, such as the COMOS handbook.
Expressing gratitude for the warm reception in Borno and Yobe, Audu congratulated promoted staff and assured those awaiting promotion results of imminent benefits. He stressed the importance of staff taking ownership of federal projects to ensure effective policy communication.
In his welcome address, Borno State NOA Director Michael Daniel Bliya congratulated Audu and praised Issa-Onilu for establishing zonal offices to enhance administrative efficiency.
However, Bliya raised concerns about challenges, including office damage from the September 2024 Maiduguri flood, a staff shortage (only 71 personnel), a grounded vehicle, and the need for uniforms and stipends for community volunteers.
He appealed to Audu to escalate these issues to the Director-General for urgent action.
Audu reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the North East Directorate, improving staff performance, and ensuring the successful implementation of NOA’s mandate across the region.
