FG Urges Nigerians to Seek Permission Before Using National Anthem
By Wisdom Tide
October 9, 2024
The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to seek official permission before using the national anthem in public or private settings. In a statement released on Wednesday, October 8, the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, emphasized that the need for permission is to prevent potential misinterpretation or misuse of this national symbol.
Clarification on Permission Requirements
While issuing the directive, Mallam Issa-Onilu did not specify the exact contexts in which permission must be obtained before using the anthem or its lyrics. However, he underscored the importance of ensuring that Nigeria’s national symbols, including the anthem, are used appropriately. “As custodians of Nigeria’s national symbols, the NOA is tasked with preventing all forms of misuse. Permission must be sought from the Agency before using the National Anthem to avoid misrepresentation,” the statement read.
Proper Representation of the National Flag
Issa-Onilu also addressed concerns surrounding the correct representation of the Nigerian flag. He clarified that the national flag consists of green, white, and green, with the official shade of green identified as Emerald 2.0. This clarification comes in response to instances where incorrect colors have been used in public displays of the flag.
Addressing Neglect of Value Orientation
The NOA Director General further reflected on the shortcomings of previous administrations, noting that they focused heavily on infrastructure development at the expense of value orientation. This oversight, according to Issa-Onilu, led to the erosion of key social intervention programs such as the Boys’ Scouts, Girls’ Brigade, the WAI Brigade, and even the National Orientation Agency itself. These organizations, which once played critical roles in fostering civic responsibility and national pride, have experienced a decline in activity and influence.
President Tinubu’s Support for Value Reorientation
Issa-Onilu praised the current administration, stating that President Tinubu recognizes the importance of value orientation in nation-building. He highlighted that the president has extended significant support to the National Orientation Agency as part of broader efforts to revitalize the country’s value systems.
Encouraging Local Content for Youth Education
In addition, Issa-Onilu stressed the importance of developing locally produced content for young Nigerians, particularly in the realm of entertainment and education. He emphasized the need to counteract the growing influence of foreign media, which often conveys values that may not align with Nigerian cultural ideals. By promoting local content, he said, the government aims to instill a stronger sense of national identity among the youth.
This directive reflects the government’s commitment to preserving the integrity of national symbols while fostering a renewed sense of patriotism among Nigerians
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