The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has released official guidelines on the correct rendition and recitation of the National Anthem and Pledge at public and official events across the country.
In a public notice shared via its official X handle on Friday, the agency urged Nigerians to adhere strictly to the approved protocol during national ceremonies.
According to the NOA, only the first stanza of the national anthem should be sung or recited at all official events, while the third stanza is to be rendered as the National Prayer at the beginning of such occasions.
The agency clarified that all three stanzas of the anthem are to be sung or recited only on special national occasions, such as Independence Day, Presidential Inauguration, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy Day (June 12), and the Inauguration of the National Assembly.
Additionally, the NOA stated that the National Pledge should be recited at the end of every event, emphasizing that this sequence reflects respect for national symbols and proper civic conduct.
“Let us uphold the dignity and sanctity of our national symbols,” the agency stated.
The clarification follows the signing of the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law by President Bola Tinubu, which officially restored “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the country’s national anthem, replacing “Arise, O Compatriots.”
The new law, passed by both chambers of the National Assembly in May, has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians — with some praising the return of the historic anthem, while others questioned the timing amid ongoing economic challenges.
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