The Zambian government has indicated interest in understudying the operation of the National Values charter, the cornerstone of the proposed Nigerian Identity Project which was earlier approved by the Federal Executive Council, FEC.
However, Zambia pointed out that there is growing concern back at home, particularly among its younger generation, about the dominant themes of rituals, occultism, and superstitions in many Nollywood productions.
This was the outcome of the second meeting between officials of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, led by the Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu and the Zambian High Commission in Nigeria, led by Jenipher Mutembo, Deputy High Commissioner, in Abuja.
Addressing the team from the Zambian High Commission, Issa-Onilu commented on the narrow perception of leadership in Africa, typically limited to political figures, instead of encompassing civil, traditional, and moral leaders as influencers of national values.
In her remarks, Mrs Jenipher Mutembo, expressed sincere gratitude for the hospitality and openness extended by the Director General and his team, recognising the institutional strength and nationwide structure of the NOA.
Mutembo said, “I must commend your presence in all local government areas.
“This grassroots model is powerful, and we see its potential as a framework other African countries, Zambia included, can learn from.”
She hailed the Nigerian government for the opportunity for Zambia to observe, learn, and possibly adopt aspects of NOA’s operational methodology for national reorientation and civic education.
“Our young people are watching these films. They are learning, forming ideas, and creating perceptions, sometimes misinformed, about success, morality, and identity.
“What we portray shapes national values and international image. As leaders, we have a duty to ensure that the content reaching the public inspires unity, innovation, dignity, and pride in African heritage.
“Nigeria is the cultural giant of Africa, and Nollywood is one of your most powerful exports.
“However, as a sister country, I must mention, with respect, that there is growing concern in Zambia, particularly among our youth, about the dominant themes of rituals, occultism, and superstitions in many Nollywood productions,” she stated.
