The Federal Government has issued a call to action, reminding Nigerians to obtain formal approval before using the national anthem, in a bid to prevent misuse or misinterpretation.
According to Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), seeking permission from the agency is crucial to avoid misrepresentation. “As custodians of Nigeria’s national symbols, the NOA is tasked with preventing all forms of misuse. Permission must be sought from the agency to avoid misrepresentation,” he emphasized.
To provide clarity on the agency’s new policies and guidelines, sensitization campaigns will soon be held across the 36 states of the federation. The NOA boss also addressed the issue of the Nigerian flag, stressing that its official colors remain green, white, and green, with the specific shade of green being Emerald 2.0.
Lanre Issa-Onilu commended President Bola Tinubu for recognizing the importance of value orientation and supporting the revival of value-based initiatives. The President recently signed into law a bill re-adopting Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which was originally written by Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda in 1959 ¹. The anthem was dropped by a military government in 1978 but has now been restored.
The restored national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” is a significant part of Nigeria’s national identity and cultural tapestry. The lyrics, which emphasize unity and brotherhood, are as follows:
_Nigeria, we hail thee,_
_Our own dear native land,_
_Though tribes and tongue may differ,_
_In brotherhood we stand,_
_Nigerians all, and proud to serve_
_Our sovereign Motherland_
By seeking approval before using the national anthem, Nigerians can ensure that this symbol of national pride is used respectfully and appropriately.
