NOA’s Directive on National Symbolism

-SEB Editorial-

A New Anthem Protocol - NOA’s Directive on National Symbolism

In a move aimed at standardizing the ceremonial use of Nigeria’s national anthem, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has issued a fresh directive that reshapes how the anthem is to be rendered at official events.

The guideline, released in mid-October 2025, mandates that only the first stanza of the national anthem should be sung during public functions and government engagements.

This decision, according to the agency, is part of a broader effort to instill uniformity, reverence, and solemnity in the use of national symbols across the country.

The directive outlines a four-point framework for anthem recitation. Firstly, it stipulates that the full three stanzas of the anthem are no longer required at routine official events. Instead, the third stanza, known for its reflective and prayerful tone, has now been designated as Nigeria’s official national prayer and is to be recited at the beginning of events. The complete anthem, encompassing all three stanzas, will be reserved for special national occasions such as Independence Day, Democracy Day (June 12), Armed Forces Remembrance Day, presidential inaugurations, and the swearing-in of the National Assembly.

The NOA also emphasized that the National Pledge should be recited at the conclusion of official events, reinforcing the ceremonial structure and patriotic tone of such gatherings. This reconfiguration comes months after President Bola Tinubu signed into law the reintroduction of Nigeria’s old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” replacing the more recent “Arise, O Compatriots,” which had been in use since 1978. The change sparked widespread debate, with critics questioning the relevance and timing of the switch. Nonetheless, the administration defended the move as a reaffirmation of national identity and service.

By streamlining the anthem’s usage, the NOA seeks to foster a deeper respect for national rituals while ensuring that public events maintain a consistent and dignified tone.

Whether this directive will resonate with the public or stir further debate remains to be seen, but it undeniably marks a significant shift in how Nigeria engages with its patriotic expressions.