The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to partnering with local media organizations to promote the esteemed Omoluabi ethos and values. This commitment was underscored during an advocacy visit to the General Manager of the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) in Ado Ekiti, where Mrs Olawumi Famuyiwa, Director-General of the Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship (BCOC), highlighted the crucial role of media in this initiative.
The visit aimed to foster collaboration in educating the Ekiti populace about their rich cultural heritage, civic responsibilities, and the necessity for a positive attitudinal change. Mrs Famuyiwa expressed her concerns regarding the erosion of Ekiti’s cultural values and emphasized the urgent need to engage the youth in embracing the core Omoluabi principles. These principles encompass dignity of labour, hard work, discipline, decency, respect for elders, honesty, simplicity and a steadfast commitment to ethical standards.
As part of this initiative, the BCOC has already reached out to 22 public secondary schools in Ado metropolis, raising awareness among students about these vital values. Mrs Famuyiwa commended Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for exemplifying the Omoluabi spirit in his governance and for his profound respect for elders.
Addressing contemporary challenges, the Director-General cautioned against negative influences affecting the youth, such as internet fraud, money rituals, and the pervasive “get-rich-quick” mentality. She noted that many young people are emulating the dressing styles of Nollywood actors, which has led to indecency. Mrs. Famuyiwa urged media organizations to take a proactive stance in educating the youth about appropriate dressing and behavior.
In response, Alhaji Ishak Akande, the General Manager of NTA Ado Ekiti, expressed the organization’s readiness to support the BCOC in educating young people about their civic responsibilities and the importance of ethical values. He acknowledged the media’s pivotal role in shaping public opinion and behavior, assuring that NTA Ado Ekiti would offer low-cost airtime to promote the advocated values and principles.
Alhaji Akande has committed to ensuring that programs and initiatives receive adequate media coverage, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in public enlightenment and citizen education. Through this partnership, both the Ekiti State Government and media organizations aim to reinvigorate the Omoluabi ethos and instill a sense of pride and responsibility in the youths of Ekiti.
