The National Orientation Agency has announced new protocols governing how Nigeria’s national anthem should be recited at official events, clarifying confusion over the proper use of the reinstated anthem.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the agency outlined a four-point directive that distinguishes between routine events and major national celebrations. According to the guidelines, only the first stanza of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” should be sung or recited at regular official functions, while the third stanza has been designated as the National Prayer to be recited at the beginning of events.
The NOA specified that all three stanzas of the anthem are reserved exclusively for significant national occasions, including Independence Day celebrations, presidential inaugurations, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy Day commemorations on June 12, and the inauguration of the National Assembly.
The agency also clarified the placement of the National Pledge, directing that it should be recited at the conclusion of events rather than at the beginning.
These guidelines come five months after President Bola Tinubu signed legislation in May reintroducing “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the country’s official anthem. The anthem, which originally served as Nigeria’s national song from independence in 1960 until 1978, replaced “Arise, O Compatriots” following the passage of the bill.
The new directive aims to standardize the use of the national anthem across government institutions and official ceremonies, ensuring uniformity in patriotic observances nationwide.
