The Nigerian government has instructed Nigerians to seek permission before using the national anthem.

The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated that it is necessary to seek permission to prevent misinterpretation.

He made this announcement in a statement released on Wednesday, October 8. However, the director-general did not provide further details on when permission is required to use the national anthem or its lyrics.

“As custodians of Nigeria’s national symbols, the NOA is tasked with preventing all forms of misuse. The DG emphasised that permission must be sought from the agency before using the national anthem to avoid misrepresentation,” the statement partly read.

According to Issa-Onilu, the Nigerian flag consists of green, white, and green, with the correct shade of green being Emerald 2.0.

He pointed out that the previous administration, led by Muhammadu Buhari prioritised infrastructure development but neglected the crucial aspect of value orientation.

He stated that this oversight resulted in the reduction of social interventions such as the Boys’ Scouts, Girls’ Brigade, WAI Brigade, and the National Orientation Agency.

Issa-Onilu acknowledged the agency’s limitations under the current administration and expressed optimism that, with President Bola Tinubu’s support, there will be a positive change.

Following the announcement, Nigerians have taken to social media to share their thoughts.

@desolvay180052: Misplaced priority, how has that changed the fuel price hike?

@cinaluv: I no even wan sing the National anthem sef

@Beebeewest72: Keep the anthem; we don't need it.

@ibraheemms247: Na person wey chop Bellefull dey remember national anthem

@andrew_ken79: Someone should check on APC government, something is wrong with them.

@chimaogba_777: So our National Anthem is now copyright property? I hope our leaders have not been stricken by ailments that make them think backwards? The last time we were issued a National ID with an expiry date meaning that our citizenship is renewable. Shadow chasing.