FG to Nigerians: Seek permission before using National Anthem

• The DG emphasised that permission must be sought from the Agency before using the Anthem to avoid misrepresentation,” the statement read.
• He noted that the Nigerian flag is simply green, white and green with correct shade of green being Emerald 2.0.

The federal government says citizens should seek permission before using the national anthem, according to the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu.

This move aims to prevent misinterpretation and ensure proper representation of national symbols.

The NOA is responsible for preventing misuse of national symbols, and permission must be sought from the Agency to avoid misrepresentation, as stated by the DG.

Mallam Issa-Onilu announced that press conferences will be held nationwide to educate the public on this policy and other new initiatives.

The DG clarified that the Nigerian flag consists of “green, white, and green” colors, with the correct shade of green being Emerald 2.0.

Under his leadership, the NOA has established audio-visual studios, launched an upgraded website featuring the CLHEEAN-NOA AI voice and chat assistant, and received FEC approvals on institutional policies, credited to President Bola Tinubu’s support.

Past administrations prioritized infrastructure development over value orientation, leading to the decline of social institutions like the Boys’ Scouts and Girls’ Brigade.

However, the current administration recognizes the importance of value orientation, with President Tinubu backing the National Identity Project and NOA’s initiatives.

The Citizen Value Brigade (CVB) aims to instill Nigerian values in children, starting with 1,000 children per state and the FCT.

“We advise Nigerians not to allow their children to search for heroes elsewhere, especially during their formative years,” Issa-Onilu remarked.

To counter foreign influences, Issa-Onilu emphasized the need for local cartoon content aligning with Nigerian values.

Both leaders and citizens must uphold principles of equality and Meritocracy outlined in the National Values Charter, crucial to Nigeria’s progress.

Recently, President Tinubu signed a bill restoring the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” written in 1959 by Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda.