Nigeria Launches Counter-Narrative Initiative-NOA

By Usman A Harande
In a bid to combat negative narratives surrounding Nigeria, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has launched a counter-narrative program titled “Nigeria has happened to me.” The initiative aims to share real-life success stories of Nigerians whose lives have been positively transformed through government initiatives.

A New Approach to Communicating Government Services
Stakeholders from various government institutions gathered at the NOA head office to discuss how to deploy positive narratives in communicating government services. They agreed that government services need to be communicated more personally to citizens to gain popularity and acceptance.

Challenging Negative Perceptions
The project focuses on challenging the prevalent negative perception associated with the phrase “Nigeria Happened to Me,” often used by Nigerians to express disappointment and dissatisfaction with the country’s systems. By sharing success stories, the NOA aims to showcase the positive impact of government policies across various sectors.
Partnership with Media Companies
The NOA has partnered with 50 media companies to produce five-minute documentaries highlighting the impact of government policies. These documentaries will feature beneficiaries sharing their transformative experiences, shedding light on the positive outcomes of government programs.
Reaching Citizens Across the Country
With over 818 offices nationwide, the NOA’s extensive network enables the agency to reach and influence citizens across the country. By leveraging this network, the NOA aims to promote a positive narrative about Nigeria and its government services.