National Orientation Agency issues guidance on proper use of National Anthem at official events

By Clement Ezeolisah 

The National Orientation Agency, NOA, has issued guidelines on the proper protocol for the use of the various components of the National Anthem 

According to the NOA guidelines issued 17 October 2025, only the first stanza of the National Anthem, and not all three stanzas should be recited or sung at official events.

It also directed that the third stanza should be recited as the National Prayer at the beginning of such official events and the National Pledge recited at the close of the event.

The notice clarified that the three stanzas are to be recited or sung only during Independence Day celebrations, at the Inauguration (swearing-in) of the President, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy (June 12) Day, Inauguration of the National Assembly.