The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has issued a new public notice detailing the proper rendition of Nigeria’s national anthem and recitation of the national pledge at public and official functions.
The clarification, shared via the agency’s official X handle on Friday, comes as part of efforts to ensure uniformity and respect for national symbols following recent changes to the country’s anthem.
According to the NOA, “only the first stanza of the anthem should be sung or recited at all official events, while the third stanza is to be rendered as the National Prayer at the beginning of such occasions.”
The agency further stated that “all three stanzas are to be sung or recited only on special national occasions such as Independence Day, Presidential Inauguration, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, and Democracy Day.”
The agency also directed that the national pledge should be recited at the end of every event, emphasizing the importance of protocol and discipline in national ceremonies.
“Let us uphold the dignity and sanctity of our national symbols,” the NOA added, reaffirming its commitment to promoting civic values and national unity.
This clarification follows President Bola Tinubu’s signing of the National Anthem Bill 2024, which restored “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the official anthem, replacing “Arise, O Compatriots.”
The move, passed by both chambers of the National Assembly in May, has drawn mixed reactions, some Nigerians welcomed the return to the pre-1978 anthem for its historical and patriotic significance, while others criticized it as ill-timed amid economic challenges.
The NOA’s directive now aims to standardize how Nigerians express national identity, ensuring every event, from schools to government functions, reflects the anthem’s renewed spirit of pride and unity.
