The Federal Government has expressed concerns over the influence of foreign cartoons on Nigerian children, citing the erosion of national values and identity.
To address this, President Bola Tinubu has approved the replacement of foreign cartoons with Nigerian content on popular platforms like GOtv and StarTimes.
Lanre Onilu, Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), emphasized the need to redefine Nigeria’s identity and promote national values. “We’re worried that Nigerian children are adopting foreign attitudes and behaviors from cartoons,” he said.
Onilu lamented the country’s negative image abroad, citing associations with kidnappers, bandits, and fraudsters. “We want to change this narrative and encourage Nigerians to proudly claim their identity,” he added.
The campaign aims to:
1. Promote Nigerian culture and values through local content.
2. Encourage honesty, integrity, and patriotism among Nigerians.
3. Redefine Nigeria’s identity and challenge negative stereotypes.
By promoting national values and identity, the government seeks to empower Nigerian children with a strong sense of self and pride in their heritage.