National Orientation Agency has released fresh instructions to guide how Nigerians should perform the national anthem and recite the pledge during formal and community events nationwide.
The update, shared publicly on Friday, reminds everyone to follow the right procedures to show proper respect for these important symbols of the country.
According to the guidelines, people should sing or say just the opening verse of the anthem at regular official occasions. The third verse serves as a special prayer and goes at the start of these events. Full versions of all three verses are reserved for major national days, including Independence celebrations, the swearing-in of the president, remembrance for armed forces members, June 12 democracy commemorations, and the opening of the national legislature.
The pledge, meanwhile, always comes last, closing out every such gathering.
Officials stressed the need to cherish and protect the honour of these emblems, calling on all to join in keeping their meaning alive.
This comes shortly after the president approved a new law earlier this year that brings back the older anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, replacing the one known as “Arise, O Compatriots” that had been in use since 1978. Lawmakers in both houses of parliament gave their backing in May.
The change has sparked varied views among the public. Some welcome the nod to the nation’s past, while others feel it misses the mark given pressing money worries facing everyday people. The restored song holds a special place as the original choice before the switch decades ago.
