Dare Babalola
The National Orientation Agency has released fresh directives on how to render Nigeria’s national anthem at official events.
The directive was released a statement the agency made available on its X account on Friday, stressing that only the first stanza of the anthem should be sung at public functions .
The agency wrote, “Recite/sing only the first stanza (not all three (3) stanzas at official 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.”
Nigeria’s national anthem was changed recently, reverting to the country’s original anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”.
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was the country’s national anthem from independence in 1960 until 1978. It was written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate, and composed by Frances Berda.
President Bola Tinubu signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law, reinstating “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the national anthem. This decision was announced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a joint session of the National Assembly.
The president and lawmakers supporting the bill argued that the original anthem promotes unity, peace, and prosperity. They believe it will inspire patriotism and cooperation among Nigerians.
However, the decision has been met with mixed reactions, with many Nigerians questioning the timing and priority of the change amidst pressing economic challenges, insecurity, and rising inflation. Some have also criticized the colonial origins of the anthem.
