NOA Commends Funke Akindele for Promoting ₦aira Respect in Film

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has lauded Nigerian filmmaker and actress Funke Akindele for her recent movie, "Behind The Scenes," specifically commending its message promoting respect for the nation's currency, the ₦aira.

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The NOA commends you for your recently released movie ‘Behind the Scenes particularly for the thoughtful and patriotic inclusion of a message promoting respect for the national currency.

The film, released on December 12, 2025, explores the emotional and financial burdens individuals carry. A pivotal scene shows law enforcement abruptly halting a party as guests prepare to spray cash, issuing a stern warning against the practice. This creative choice directly reflects the ongoing efforts by Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to curb the abuse of banknotes.

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We wish to acknowledge you as a role model and applaud your deliberate effort to highlight the importance of preserving the dignity of our national currency by discouraging the practice of spraying and trampling on the ₦aira at public functions.

In a statement released on Thursday, NOA Director-General Lanre Issa-Onilu described Akindele's inclusion of this message as a "commendable step towards reshaping public attitudes towards the ₦aira." He acknowledged her as a role model for her deliberate effort to "discourage the practice of spraying and trampling on the ₦aira at public functions."

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As you are aware, the ₦aira is not merely a medium of exchange but a symbol of our national sovereignty and collective identity. Your influence as a leading figure in Nigeria’s creative industry has significantly amplified this message, contributing to public awareness and behavioural change in an engaging and impactful way.

The agency further stated that Akindele's intervention aligns with the Federal Government's broader campaign for responsible civic behavior and adherence to laws governing the proper use of the currency. NOA recognized the significant role of the entertainment industry in shaping societal values, encouraging Akindele to continue using her platform to promote civic responsibility and national pride. The commendation comes at a time when entertainers are facing prosecution for alleged ₦aira abuse.

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The Agency recognises the vital role of the entertainment industry in shaping societal values and attitudes. Your work exemplifies how film can be effectively utilised as a tool for national reorientation, and we encourage you to continue leveraging your platform in support of initiatives that promote civic responsibility and national pride.