The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has officially designated the third stanza of Nigeria’s National Anthem as the National Prayer.
In addition, the first stanza is now to be recited at all official functions, while all three stanzas will be reserved for special national events like Independence Day, Democracy Day, Children’s Day, and others.
This update was shared by the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, during a briefing held at the agency’s office in Umuahia, Abia State. Represented by Mrs. Theresa Maduekwe, the DG explained that several proposals aimed at strengthening national values had been submitted, all of which received approval from the FEC.
Among the key decisions is the establishment of September 16 as National Symbols Enlightenment Day, and the reintroduction of citizenship studies as a core part of Nigeria’s educational system. Furthermore, NOA will now act as the official custodian of all national symbols, ensuring uniformity and standardization across the country.
The Federal Government, through programs like the Nigeria Youth Investment Fund, the Student Loan Scheme, and the Agricultural and Food Security Initiatives, urges citizens to embrace these opportunities. These steps, according to Mallam Issa-Onilu, are designed to create a more sustainable economy, following the removal of fuel subsidies.
Abia State’s NOA Director, Mrs. Regina Iroha, also highlighted the agency’s ongoing efforts to sensitize residents about government policies, emphasizing the importance of maintaining national unity and peace.
“A nation’s strength lies not only in its wealth, but in the unity and resolve of its people.”
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