The National Orientation Agency has announced plans to release the standardized version of Nigeria’s new national anthem after due consultation with stakeholders. The move aims to address the proliferation of varying versions circulating on social media, which has caused confusion among the public.
The Director-General of the NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated in a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja that the decision was prompted by feedback from the agency’s Community Orientation and Mobilization Officers.
“Our COMOS, whom we ordered to learn the new national anthem, have reported that many citizens are eager to learn and promote the anthem but are confused by the multiple versions available online,” Issa-Onilu said. “They have also inquired about which of the stanzas, if any, will be designated as the national prayer.”
The NOA chief emphasized the need for a standardized version to eliminate the confusion caused by the proliferation of varying renditions. “Our COMOS have reported widespread uncertainty regarding the correct lyrics, instrumental, and audio renditions of the anthem,” he added.
Issa-Onilu assured that a decision on whether any of the stanzas will be adopted as a national prayer will be made after necessary approval procedures are followed.
He further advised government agencies seeking to play the new national anthem at their functions to revert to the NOA for the official copy. “They should revert to the NOA for the official copy of the new national anthem,” he stated.
