The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has released new guidelines on the correct recitation and use of the reinstated national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” and the national pledge during official events.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, the Agency directed that only the first stanza of the anthem should be sung or recited at official functions, while the third stanza should serve as the National Prayer at the beginning of events.
According to the circular, all three stanzas are to be rendered only on special occasions such as Independence Day celebrations, presidential inaugurations, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy Day (June 12), and the inauguration of the National Assembly.
The NOA further clarified that the National Pledge should be recited at the end of events, in line with the national protocol.
Additionally, the Agency listed common errors made in singing the anthem and provided corrections to ensure accuracy. It emphasized that the correct lyrics are “tribes” (not tribe), “tongues” (not tongue), “Nigerians all, are” (not Nigerians all, and), and “Nigeria may be blessed” (not Nigeria shall be blessed).
The first stanza, NOA reiterated, reads:
Nigeria, we hail thee,
Our own dear native land,
Though tribes and tongues may differ,
In brotherhood we stand,
Nigerians all, are proud to serve,
Our sovereign Motherland.
The NOA urged government institutions, schools, and event organizers nationwide to adhere strictly to the approved version and recitation protocol to preserve the anthem’s integrity and promote national unity.
