ANUJA (SUNDIATA POST)- The Director General of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu on Wednesday unveiled the official version of the National Anthem to the Nigerian populace.
This is also as the DG has said that the old but now new national anthem resonates with the people, stressing that the lyrics reflects our current reality.
The unveiling became nevessary in view of the different versions of the anthem in circulation but today’s presentation of the official version will clear all doubts about the correct lyrics as contained in the Act signed by the President.
The DG reminded that the NOA’s values orientation programmes as envisioned under the Federal Government’s National Values Charter, seek to define the Nigerian citizens’ shared identity, with clearly stated commitment of both leaders and followers.
According to the DG, “the National Anthem is part of the National Identity project of the Tinubu administration, being one of the seven programmes for the institutionalisation of our national values.
“The Anthem is one of the country’s national symbols, which NOA as custodian, is mandated to promote and preserve its integrity for national cohesion, unity and a sense of patriotism.
Issa-Onilu called the attention of Nigerians to the line three (3) of the first stanza, which reads: Though tribes and tongues may differ. He stressed and reminded that the words “tribes” and “tongues” are in plural. We want you to also note that line five (5) of the first stanza reads: Nigerians all, “are” proud to serve”. The word “are”, not “and” is correct, he highlighted.
On the official instrumental and audio rendition, the DG honted that NOA will call for entries for the production of an authentic Nigerian melody, taking into cognisance, the indigenous instrumentation of the Nigerian people.
Adding that the effective date for the entries and the procedure will be announced through NOA channels in the coming week.
Responding to questions about national prayer, the DG said NOA will follow the official procedure to obtain approval for the adoption of a new National Prayer.
He further stated that the National Pledge remain valid and operational.
Issa-Onilu said the Charter, operating under the “7 for 7” social contract will guide our national values for a reciprocal commitment of leaders and citizens towards building a nation we all can be proud of.
He further emphasized that NOA will be working with a wide spectrum of stakeholders to ensure citizens’ buy-in of the National Anthem and sing it reflectively with a sense of pride.
Recall that President Bola Tinubu, signed into law the new National Anthem Act on the 29th of May 2024.
