NIGERIA: NOA Clarifies Proper Rendition Of Nigeria’s National Anthem And Pledge

By Hamzat Ameenat, Lagos, Nigeria

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has issued a public notice clarifying the correct procedure for rendering Nigeria’s National Anthem and Pledge at public functions, urging all citizens, institutions, and event organisers to uphold the dignity of national symbols.

In the statement released on Thursday via all its social media handles, the Agency outlined the approved order and occasions for the rendition of the anthem’s stanzas, emphasising that only the first stanza should be sung or recited at all official events.

According to the NOA, the third stanza of the anthem should serve as the National Prayer and be rendered at the beginning of official functions, while all three stanzas are reserved for special national occasions such as Independence Day, Democracy Day, Presidential Inauguration, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, and the inauguration of the National Assembly.

The notice further clarified that the National Pledge should always be recited at the end of events as a reaffirmation of loyalty and commitment to national values.

“Let us uphold the dignity and sanctity of our national symbols,” the Agency urged, reminding Nigerians that the correct observance of the anthem and pledge reflects patriotism, respect, and unity.

The National Orientation Agency reiterated its commitment to promoting civic values and building a people rooted in positive national pride, in line with its motto: “Building a People of Positive Values and National Pride.”