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NOA releases standardised version of reintroduced National Anthem amid controversy
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) on Wednesday has released a standardised version of the reintroduced national anthem, following the signing of the bill into law by President Bola Tinubu on May 29.
The move comes amid criticism from some Nigerians who view the reintroduction of the old national anthem as a misplaced priority.
Recall that the national anthem, composed by Lillian Jean Williams, was originally used from 1960 to 1978.
However, since its reintroduction, various versions of the anthem have emerged, prompting the NOA to intervene and ensure a unified lyrics.
At an event in Abuja on Wednesday, the Director-General of the NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, unveiled the standardised version of the anthem, stating that the agency consulted with stakeholders to ensure a single, unified lyrics for the national anthem.
He said, “Today’s event is to present the official version which will clear all doubts about the correct lyrics as contained in the Act signed by the President.”
In the standardised version of the reintroduced national anthem, only one word was changed.
The word “and” in line five of the first stanza was corrected to “are,” making the official line read: “Nigerians all, are proud to serve.”
Issa-Onilu said, “We call the attention of Nigerians to line three of the first stanza, which reads: Though tribes and tongues may differ. Note that the words ‘tribes’ and ‘tongues’ are plural.
“We want you to also note that line five of the first stanza reads: ‘Nigerians all, are proud to serve.’ The words ‘are,’ not ‘and’ is correct.”
National Anthem
Stanza 1
Nigeria, we hail thee
Our own dear native land
Though tribes and tongues may differ
In brotherhood, we stand
Nigerians all, are proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.
Stanza 2
Our flag shall be a symbol
That truth and justice reign
In peace or battle, honour’d,
And this we count as gain,
To hand on to our children
A banner without stain.
Stanza 3
O God of all creation
Grant this our one request,
Help us to build a nation
Where no man is oppressed,
And so with peace and plenty
Nigeria may be blessed.
By Austine Emmanuel, Kaduna
One of the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) helicopter has crashed in the early hours of Monday in Tami village, located in the Igabi local government area of Kaduna State.
According to ryewitness reports, the incident occurred at about 5:00am, causing significant alarm among villagers.
The helicopter, on a routine operational flight, experienced technical difficulties that led to the crash. Fortunately, the pilot managed to execute emergency protocols effectively, ensuring his own survival.
Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that the pilot emerged from the wreckage unscathed. Residents of Tami village quickly gathered at the crash site, offering assistance where possible and expressing relief that no live was lost.
“We heard a loud noise and rushed to the scene. We were surprised and relieved to see the pilot alive,” said a villager who witnessed the crash.
By Titus Atondu, Makurdi
The elders of Mbayion and Yandev clans from Gboko local government area of the state on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), have unanimously agreed to support the administration of Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the executive governor of Benue state and the Speaker of the 10th Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh (The Atonko u Mbatiav) for sustainable deliverance of democracy dividends to the masses of the state.
In similar vein, the Gboko local government area chapter of the Benue Motorcycle Hirers Association (BEMOA), Gboko branch also pledged their total loyalty and support to the Governor of the state and the Speaker of the state Assembly for more economic stability and infrastructural development in the state.
The three groups made their position known on Sunday when Rt. Hon. Hyacinth Dajoh, met with the esteemed Elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) of Mbayion clan led by Elder Atsenda Ishwa Iortim in Gboko to appreciate them for coming out in their numbers to welcome the Governor during his thank you tour recently.
“I also had a meeting with the stakeholders of BEMOA, Gboko branch and appreciated them for their support on the day of Gov. Alia’s thank you visit to Gboko.
“In addition, I had a productive meeting with Hon. Batholomew Igbanum (Batho) in Yandev alongside his kinsmen who all agreed to support the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia to bring more development to our dear State,” Speaker disclosed.
Nigerian NewsDirect reports that the Honourable Speaker (Atonko u Mbatiav) was accompanied by Rt. Hon. Cephas Dyako, Hon. Solomon Gyila and Hon. Solomon Jiji Aluor.
By Sodiq Adelakun
Members of the Old Students Association of Odogbolu Grammar School’s 1979/84 set gathered on Friday, June 28, to commemorate significant milestones and reaffirm their commitment to supporting their alma mater.
The occasion marked 45 years since their admission to the school and 40 years since their graduation.
Speaking at the 40th-anniversary press conference, The Alumni President, Bolade Ogunfodun (BOT) emphasised the association’s dedication to giving back to the institution that shaped their formative years.
Highlighting their contributions over the years, President Ogunfodun announced the completion of a block of renovated classrooms, the provision of 120 new ironed chairs, and support for sporting activities among others.
“The essence of our reunion is to give back,” President Ogunfodun stated, reiterating the alumni’s ongoing commitment to enhancing educational facilities and opportunities at Odogbolu Grammar School.
Among the distinguished alumni present was Prof. Adebola Osipitan, a former president and head boy of the 79/84 set, who spoke passionately about the alumni’s broader impact.
He revealed that the association has been creating welfare and job opportunities for members’ children and extending assistance to students and teachers alike.
“We began our efforts while some of us were still students, Our approach has always prioritised collaboration over pressure, laying a strong foundation for the association’s enduring structure,” Prof. Osipitan said.
Meanwhile, former students gathered to reminisce about their alma mater, recalling tough but transformative discipline, coordinated efforts among peers, and other formative experiences that shaped their lives.
In response to the reunion, Vice Principal Mr Oyibo expressed gratitude for the alumni’s commitment to their school and praised their initiative in launching projects aimed at benefiting current teachers and students.
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