Nigerians Required to Obtain Approval for National Anthem Use, Says NOA

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has mandated that Nigerians seek formal approval before using the national anthem to prevent potential misuse or misinterpretation. In a statement released on October 9, 2024, the Director General of the NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, highlighted the significance of obtaining permission from the agency prior to using the anthem or its lyrics.

“As custodians of Nigeria’s national symbols, the NOA is tasked with preventing all forms of misuse. Permission must be sought from the agency to avoid misrepresentation,” the statement emphasized.

Issa-Onilu announced that sensitization campaigns will soon take place across all 36 states to clarify the agency’s new policies and guidelines. Additionally, he reaffirmed the official colors of the Nigerian flag as green, white, and green, specifying that the particular shade of green is Emerald 2.0.

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In related news, the Director General criticized previous administrations for prioritizing infrastructure development while neglecting value orientation, resulting in a decline in social intervention programs such as the Boys’ Scouts and Girls’ Brigade, as well as the National Orientation Agency itself.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for acknowledging this gap and supporting the revival of initiatives centered on values. The President signed a bill reinstating Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” marking the first anniversary of his administration. This anthem, penned by Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda in 1959, was originally replaced by a military government in 1978 but has now been restored.