The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has announced new guidelines on how Nigeria’s national anthem should be rendered at public and official functions, stating that only the first stanza is to be sung during such events.
According to a statement released by the agency on Friday, the decision aims to ensure uniformity and respect for national symbols. The directive further emphasized that while the first stanza will be used at general occasions, the third stanza should serve as the national prayer and be recited at the start of official gatherings.
The NOA explained that all three stanzas of the anthem will be rendered only during major national celebrations such as Independence Day, the Presidential Inauguration, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy Day on June 12, and the inauguration of the National Assembly. “The three stanzas are to be recited or sung only during Independence Day, Presidential swearing-in, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy Day, and the inauguration of the National Assembly,” the agency said in its statement.
The agency also highlighted the importance of adhering strictly to the prescribed usage of the anthem as part of efforts to strengthen national identity and discipline among citizens. It reminded government institutions, schools, and organizations to follow the approved format whenever the anthem is rendered.
NOA noted that the enforcement of this directive forms part of a broader campaign to promote patriotism and civic values. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to fostering unity and national pride through consistent observance of Nigeria’s national symbols.
This new directive follows the recent return of the old national anthem, “Nigeria We Hail Thee,” which was reinstated earlier this year, replacing “Arise, O Compatriots.” The NOA reiterated that this renewed emphasis on the anthem’s correct rendition aligns with the nation’s efforts to promote respect for cultural and historical heritage.
