The recent announcement by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) requiring Nigerians to seek permission before using the national anthem requires some clarifications.
Development Diaries reports that the Director General of the NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, announced that seeking permission before ‘using’ the anthem was necessary to avoid misinterpretation.
For us, Issa-Onilu’s statement emphasises the importance of avoiding misinterpretation and misrepresentation when the national anthem is used, but failed to clarify the exact contexts in which permission is required.
Many Nigerians were left confused, as was seen on X (Twitter).
This user, @mpiredivine says, ‘Ehm… I don’t understand o. Seek permission how? Like, what is baba even saying?’
Ehm… I don’t understand o. Seek permission how? Like, what is baba even saying? 👀🤔🤷🏾♂️😅 pic.twitter.com/caHpwJ1CHY
— January 27 🤗❤️ (@mpiredivine) October 9, 2024
This user, @PrinceAbbbey, asked, ‘Before using it to get bank loan or what ? Omashe ooo’.
Before using it to get bank loan or what ?
Omashe ooo— OLUWAPELUMI (@PrinceAbbbey) October 9, 2024
The lack of earlier clarity could have been avoided as it could potentially result in misunderstanding among individuals and organisations.
While the NOA’s focus on value reorientation and national identity is commendable, its communication strategy needs urgent revision.
Development Diaries calls on the NOA Director General to explain the purpose of the agency’s policies, and also engage in a national conversation that includes input from the public.
This will ensure that the agency’s efforts are not just about symbolism but about building a national identity that all Nigerians can understand and embrace.
Photo source: NOA
