NOA donates 5,000 copies of reintroduced national anthem to Sports Commission

By Kunle Sanni –

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has donated 5,000 printed copies of the reintroduced Nigerian national anthem to the National Sports Commission, as part of efforts to promote national unity and reinforce respect for the country’s symbols and values.

The donation, which also included national flags and plaques of the National Values Charter, was presented by a delegation led by Mr. David Akoji on behalf of the NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Akoji noted that the gesture was in response to growing public concern over athletes struggling to recite or sing the newly reintroduced anthem correctly. He emphasized that sports remain one of the most powerful tools for national cohesion.

“We want our athletes and citizens to feel proud and confident when singing the anthem. This gesture will help reinforce that sense of national identity,” Akoji stated.

The National Values Charter, also presented to the Commission, outlines key civic components such as the Nigerian Promise, Citizens’ Code, and core national principles. It is designed to serve as a social contract guiding the conduct of both citizens and public institutions.

Receiving the items, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, described the donation as timely, particularly as the Super Falcons prepare to face Morocco in the upcoming WAFCON final.

“This is not just about a song — it’s about identity, unity, and pride. Sports unite Nigerians in a way few things can,” Dikko said, applauding the NOA’s initiative.

The NOA delegation included directors from media, civic education, legal services, youth engagement, and environmental units, highlighting the agency’s cross-sector approach to building a more value-driven society.