The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has released a public advisory clarifying the correct procedures for performing the national anthem and reciting the national pledge at public and official gatherings across Nigeria.
In a statement shared on its official X handle on Friday, the agency called on Nigerians to “kindly take note of the correct protocol for the rendition and recitation of the National Anthem and Pledge.”
According to the agency, only the first stanza of the anthem should be performed during official events, while the third stanza should serve as the National Prayer at the beginning of such occasions.
The notice further explained 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, Democracy (June 12) Day, and the Inauguration of the National Assembly.”
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In addition, the NOA stated that the national pledge must be recited at the end of every event.
Reaffirming the need to respect national emblems, the agency added, “Let us uphold the dignity and sanctity of our national symbols.”
The clarification follows the recent signing of the National Anthem Bill 2024 by President Bola Tinubu, which officially reinstated “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the national anthem, replacing “Arise, O Compatriots.”
The legislation, which was approved by both chambers of the National Assembly in May, has generated mixed reactions. While some citizens praised the decision for reviving a piece of Nigeria’s heritage, others criticised it as a misplaced priority amid prevailing economic difficulties.
