FG tells Nigerians to seek permission before using the national anthem

In a statement today, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), emphasized the need for permission to prevent potential misinterpretation.

He added that press conferences will be held in all states to launch a sensitization campaign on the agency’s new policies.

However, he did not specify the particular circumstances in which permission would be required to sing the anthem or use its lyrics.

“As guardians of Nigeria’s national symbols, the NOA is responsible for preventing misuse. The DG stressed that permission must be obtained from the Agency before using the National Anthem to avoid misrepresentation,” part of the statement read.

Issa-Onilu also clarified that the Nigerian flag consists of green, white, and green, with the correct shade of green being Emerald 2.0.

He highlighted the agency’s transformation under his leadership, noting key accomplishments like the establishment of audio-visual studios, the launch of an improved NOA website featuring the CLHEEAN-NOA AI voice and chat assistant, and the recent Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval of institutionalization policies, all with the full support of President Bola Tinubu.

The DG stated that previous administrations neglected value orientation, which contributed to the decline of social structures like the Boys’ Scouts, Girls’ Brigade, WAI Brigade, and even the National Orientation Agency itself.

However, the current administration has acknowledged this gap, with President Tinubu backing the agency’s efforts.

This support is reflected in recent FEC approvals, which focus on value orientation and the National Identity Project.

Regarding the newly introduced Citizen Value Brigade (CVB), Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians to ensure their children seek role models within the country, especially during their formative years.

He explained that the NOA has received approval to establish this initiative, which will instill Nigerian values in children, starting with 1,000 children per state and the Federal Capital Territory. The program aims to nurture homegrown heroes for future generations.

Issa-Onilu also underscored the need to produce local cartoon content to counter the influence of foreign values on young Nigerians.

He reiterated that both leaders and citizens share responsibility for the nation’s progress, explaining that the Nigerian Promise, a core element of the National Values Charter, guarantees the principles of equality and meritocracy for all citizens, regardless of their position.

He warned that national progress depends on active participation and commitment to these values.

In commemoration of the first anniversary of his administration, President Tinubu signed into law a bill reinstating Nigeria’s former national anthem, which was replaced by a military government in 1978.

The re-adopted anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” was written by Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances.