The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has issued new guidelines for the recital of Nigeria’s national anthem, providing clear instructions on when and how each stanza should be used during official ceremonies.
In a statement released on Thursday, the agency outlined a four-point directive aimed at ensuring uniformity and respect for national symbols during public and government functions.
According to the statement:
- Only the first stanza of the anthem should be sung or recited at official events.
- The third stanza is to serve as the National Prayer, to be recited at the beginning of an event.
- All three stanzas are to be rendered only on special occasions such as Independence Day, Presidential Inauguration, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy Day (June 12), and the inauguration of the National Assembly, among others.
- The National Pledge should be recited at the end of every official ceremony.
Context: Return of the Old National Anthem
The directive follows the reintroduction of Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which President Bola Tinubu signed into law in May 2024, replacing the 1978 anthem “Arise, O Compatriots.”
The move sparked widespread public debate, with some Nigerians questioning the necessity of the change. However, President Tinubu maintained that the re-adopted anthem reflects “a renewed sense of service, unity, and national pride.”
Full Lyrics of the Reintroduced National Anthem
Stanza 1
Nigeria, we hail thee,
Our own dear native land,
Though tribes and tongues may differ,
In brotherhood, we stand.
Nigerians all are proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.
Stanza 2
Our flag shall be a symbol
That truth and justice reign,
In peace or battle honoured,
And this we count as gain,
To hand on to our children
A banner without stain.
Stanza 3 (National Prayer)
O God of all creation,
Grant this our one request,
Help us to build a nation
Where no man is oppressed,
And so with peace and plenty,
Nigeria may be blessed.
Maintaining National Unity Through Symbolism
The NOA noted that the updated directive is part of broader efforts to promote national identity and civic discipline, especially as Nigeria continues to reinforce patriotism and unity through public education campaigns.
Officials say adherence to the new anthem guidelines will help standardize state and federal functions, ensuring that Nigeria’s national symbols are used with dignity and respect.
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