The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has rolled out new rules on how the national anthem should be rendered at official gatherings across the country.
In a statement released on Thursday, the agency directed that only the first stanza of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” be sung at government and formal events.
“Recite/sing only the first stanza (not all three (3) stanzas) at official events,” the statement reads.
It further stated that the third stanza of the anthem should serve as the National Prayer, to be recited at the beginning of events.
“The third stanza should be recited as the National Prayer at the beginning of an event.
“The three stanzas are to be recited/sung only during Independence Day, Inauguration (swearing-in) of a President, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy (June 12) Day, Inauguration of the National Assembly, etc.
“The National Pledge is to be recited at the end of an event.”
The directive comes months after President Bola Tinubu, in May, signed the bill reintroducing the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, replacing “Arise, O Compatriots”, which had been in use since 1978.
The NOA said the move is aimed at ensuring uniformity, respect, and proper adherence to national values during official ceremonies.
