Following a recent report that Nigerians need authorisation to use the national anthem, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has asserted that such claims are baseless. The NOA has confirmed to the public that they can freely utilise the national anthem without needing consent, highlighting that the agency’s main function is to safeguard the significance and correct application of national symbols rather than to limit their use. NOA’s Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, released a statement responding to worries that had surfaced following reports indicating that authorisation from the NOA was necessary before usage.
During a radio interview with Radio Kwara and in discussions with reporters, Issa-Onilu clarified that the goal of the agency was not to restrict the use of the national anthem. Instead, it aimed to offer accurate melodies and promote appropriate treatment of all national symbols, such as the flag. Their responsibility as guardians of the national symbols of Nigeria is to guarantee their appropriate usage. They are not limiting citizens but rather encouraging a genuine appreciation and understanding of these symbols.
Accurate versions of the national anthem and flag must be used.
Issa-Onilu also added that the agency will persist in providing accurate versions of the national anthem and flag for public access, especially for ceremonial and official purposes. He commented on those who use the national anthem and flag commercially, suggesting they acquire the official versions of these symbols from the NOA. This initiative seeks to avoid any alterations or misinterpretations of national symbols, thereby guaranteeing they are showcased with dignity and precision. The NOA’s explanations form a key component of a wider initiative aimed at rekindling Patriotism and fostering appreciation for Nigeria’s national identity.
He emphasises that the agency has launched educational initiatives throughout its state offices to guarantee that Nigerians understand how to correctly utilise the reintroduced national anthem and flag. Besides emphasising the national anthem, the NOA has underscored the importance of Nigerians utilising the proper hue of green in the national flag, referred to officially as Emerald 2.0. This focus on precision, as stated by Issa-Onilu, is integral to the agency’s broader goal of promoting national cohesion and pride by ensuring accurate representation of these symbols.
President Tinubu approved the new national anthem on May 29, 2024.
A significant change in recent history is the return of Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” On May 29, 2024, President Bola Tinubu enacted the National Anthem Bill 2024, bringing back the anthem that had been in use prior to 1978. This event coincided with the first year of President Tinubu’s leadership and was viewed as an effort to rekindle national pride and cohesion. The anthem, originally written by Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda in 1959, had been replaced by the military government in 1978 with “Arise, O Compatriots.”
In his announcement, the president emphasised that the restored anthem reflects Nigeria’s diversity and symbolises the unity of its people. The President stated during the announcement that this song embodies their collective identity, showcasing how diverse backgrounds come together to form one nation. The NOA is now responsible for informing Nigerians about the correct way to utilise the reintroduced anthem. Specifically, Issa-Onilu encouraged citizens to focus on lines three and five, which highlight the shared duty of every Nigerian to foster the development and harmony of the country.
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Although the flag and national anthem are crucial to the NOA’s mission, the organisation has also actively encouraged the proper use of all national symbols. Issa-Onilu noted that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the singing of only the first stanza of the national anthem during government events, retaining all three stanzas for significant ceremonies such as Democracy Day and the commencement of parliament. The third stanza has been formally recognised as Nigeria’s national prayer.