New National Anthem: Only First Stanza to be sang at Occasions

Nigerians have being urged to recite or sing only the first Stanza of the Nigeria National Anthem at occasion and the third Stanza as a national prayer.

Plateau State Director of National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mrs. Kaneng Pam-Hworo gave the clarification at a stakeholders engagement on National Anthem and National Values Charter, held on Wednesday at Sarau Event Centre in Jos.

She said the three stanzas can only be sang at an occasion where the President of the Country is present like, the Inauguration of National Assembly Members, Independence Day, Democracy Day, Children’s Day, Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

She added that the last stanza is now to be recited as the National prayer.

“Our National Anthem is more than just words or melody, it carries the spirit of our Nation, reminding us of our Values, History and Aspirations as a Nation. As an Agency of Government, we are here with you all to fashion a way forward in making our people to have pride in our Nation.” She added.

While welcoming the stakeholders, the Director said the event was the launch of the Nationwide Sensitization Campaign, focused on the National Anthem and the National Values Charter.

“The Campaign is aimed at promoting awareness, understanding, and appreciation of these vital elements of our National identity. It is an epoch making event for us all to decide on which way to follow as Nigerians.” She said.

She also highlighted to the stakeholders the significance of the National Anthem, saying it is a representation of our National unity, it unites citizens across Tribes, Tongues and Religious divides, it evokes a feeling of Pride and Patriotism and that it gives us a sense of belonging as a people.

The National Values Charter is not just a set of guidelines; it is a call to action for all Nigerians. The National Values Charter has 7 for 7 reciprocal commitments between the country and the citizens.

In a keynote address, Dr. Gad Shamaki stressed the need for true unity and cohesion among the Nigeria people. Adding that a nation cannot grow without respect for one another and the nation.

He lamented that all the institutions that are meant to unite the nation, such as the NYSC, Federal and Government Colleges, the Federal and State Low Cost Houses, Higher Institutions and even very important government institutions have now become more of our past and history.

This has bred a negative socialization, value system and norm, a culture of corruption, impunity, and lack of accountability, stunting our progress as a nation. Our once-celebrated spirit of communal living, entrepreneurship has been dampened by a lack of trust in systems and institutions. Inclusivity and meritocracy are ideals we still strive toward but have not fully achieved.” He added.

Dr. Shamaki also suggested mounting of national flag in front of premises of public places like palaces, Banks, schools, government and private agencies and all other places as a symbol of patriotism to the nation.

The event had in attendance traditional rulers, religious leaders, Civil Society Organizations, security agencies, the media among other groups in the state.