OSOGBO (Sundiata Post) – National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to familiarise themselves with the lyrics of the new national anthem as a sign of patriotism.
NOA’s Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated this during a media briefing, tagged “Sensitisation on National Anthem, Identity Project, Values Charter and Renewed Hope of the President” on Thursday in Osogbo.
Onilu said that the national anthem was aimed at evoking positive sentiment in citizens to ginger them toward patriotic endeavours.
Reports that the director-general was represented by the agency’s Director of Report Coordination and Improvement, Mrs Olubukola Olorunfemi.
Onilu said that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had approved the first stanza of the national anthem to be rendered at all official functions.
He said that the three stanzas would be for special occasions, such as Independence Day, Democracy Day and inauguration of the National Assembly.
“Similarly, the council approved adoption of the third stanza of the new national anthem as the new national prayer.
“This move aims to promote unity and motivate patriotism amongst Nigerians.
“I, therefore, urge all citizens to familiarise themselves with the correct lyrics, embrace this and other national symbols of our national identity,” he said.
Onilu also said that the agency had begun sensitisation and awareness creation on “National Values Charter” which would soon be unveiled by President Bola Tinubu.
He said that FEC had also approved the mandatory inclusion of the charter as part of the curricular of schools at both basic and post-basic levels.
“This charter is a mutual commitment of the country and citizens to the national cause whereby government at all levels must fulfill its basic non-negotiable promises in return for commitments from the citizens.
“It is a blueprint for promoting core values that will guide our actions and decisions.
“Values are principles, beliefs and ideologies shaping us as individual,” he said.
Onilu said that the agency had developed a number of platforms for effective delivery of its mandate.
He also said that the national identity was highly important to redirect all Nigerians, irrespective of class, ethnicity and religion, to the ideals and values for which they were traditionally known.
The NOA boss also said that the president had taken a number of initiatives which would improve the quality of life and foster a sense of unity and pride among citizens.
According to him, the current reforms by the president need citizens’ patience and understanding. (NAN)
