Incumbency, Godfatherism or Wealth Shouldn’t Be the Only Requirements to Fly Party’s Flag — APC Chieftain Warns

 Ukorebi Esien | November 8, 2025 

CALABAR - Special Assistant to Governor Bassey Otu on Obudu Ranch Resort and former Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Cross River State, Sunday Michael, has cautioned against the rising notion that incumbency or financial capacity should be the major determinants of who emerges as party candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the Governor's son's wedding in Calabar, the APC stalwart, who hails from Yakurr Local Government Area, said democracy thrives on inclusivity, competence, and merit rather than on money or power. He emphasised that while every Nigerian has the constitutional right to aspire for any political office, political parties retain the prerogative to make strategic decisions in the collective interest of victory.

"There are constitutional requirements that allow anyone to aspire for any office, and if you check, money was not part of it. Incumbency was not part of it. Having godfathers was not part of it," Michael stated.

He recalled how, in 2013, he willingly stepped down from a House of Representatives race following the party's directive, explaining that such decisions, though sometimes difficult, demonstrate loyalty and respect for party discipline.

"The party must always consider who can win elections for it at a particular time. That's the essence of internal democracy," he added.

Michael warned that sidelining competent party members simply because they lack financial influence or political connections would be undemocratic and detrimental to the APC's growth.

"It would be rude and arrogant for anyone to tell another person not to aspire simply because they don't have money or influence," he cautioned.

Using a football analogy, the former IPAC boss likened party leadership to a coach responsible for making substitutions in the interest of victory.

"In this political game, the coach is the party leadership. We, the aspirants and incumbents, are players. If the coach believes the player on the pitch is performing well, we will all rally behind him. But if not, the coach can make changes to protect the team's victory," he explained.

Michael also called on members of the All Progressives Congress across the Cross River Central Senatorial District and the state at large to maintain unity, discipline, and mutual respect as the 2027 elections draw closer.

"No one should see personal ambition as more important than the collective interest of the party. If we remain united and disciplined, the APC will continue to win elections across Cross River State," he concluded.

Otu’s Achievements Strengthen APC’s Grip as Opposition Remains in Disarray — Hon. Peter Akpanke

Ukorebi Esien  | November 8, 2025



CALABAR- Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Peter Akpanke, has expressed confidence that no political party can challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking to journalists at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, on his arrival for the wedding of Governor Bassey Otu's son, Akpanke, described the opposition as "disorganised and invisible," adding that the APC's strength lies in its performance and unity.

"APC taking over from APC is very easy. Where is the opposition? Who is their exco? Let them settle that first," he said. "I don't think any party can beat APC as it stands now. Our governor is doing very well in this state, and our president is performing excellently too."

Governor Otu's Projects Cement APC's Popularity
Hon. Akpanke lauded Governor Otu's ongoing projects across the state, describing them as evidence of good governance and responsive leadership.
He listed the rehabilitation of key public structures such as the Chronicle Newspaper building, the Cross River State Library, the Governor's Office, and the Peregrino Hall, among others, as proof of the administration's commitment to reviving the state's infrastructure and tourism potential.

"Have you not seen how all those beautiful edifices that were dilapidated have been fixed?" he asked. "Across the three senatorial districts, there are projects ongoing. The governor is doing well, and by the grace of God, he is already succeeding."

The lawmaker appealed to Cross Riverians to rally behind Governor Otu's administration, emphasizing the need for unity and loyalty within the party and among citizens.

"Let us unite together as one Cross River and support the governor to deliver more dividends of democracy to our people," he said. "He is the leader of the party and our leader, and he deserves our collective support."

Responding to questions about the state of the nation's economy, Akpanke urged Nigerians to be patient, explaining that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's reforms were designed to stabilize the economy and create long-term prosperity.

"Yes, there is hunger in the land, but we must understand that before the president came on board, a lot had gone wrong," he explained. "The reforms being implemented will yield results soon. Whatever we face now is the sacrifice we must make for a better tomorrow."

On a lighter note, Hon. Akpanke expressed joy at joining other dignitaries in celebrating the wedding of Governor Otu's son, extending his goodwill to the couple and the first family.
"We are here to support the first family and wish the couple a blissful married life," he said. "As we take him off bachelorhood, we will also offer advice when necessary to ensure a happy home."

Where Is the Opposition?

The APC stalwart concluded by throwning a jab at opposition parties in Cross River State, declaring them disorganized and unprepared to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections adding that with the ruling party's development footprint expanding across the state, the APC in Cross River appears poised to consolidate its control ahead of 2027, riding on the back of Governor Otu's "People First" agenda and an electorate increasingly drawn to visible results over rhetoric. With visible infrastructure renewal, strengthened governance, and a fragmented opposition, Hon. Akpanke maintained that the APC in Cross River State remains the party to beat as the 2027 elections draw near.

Tags: #CrossRiverPolitics #PeterAkpanke #BasseyOtu #APC2027 #TinubuReforms #PeopleFirstAgenda

I Still Carry the Scars of Fighting for Cross River: Ayade Reflects on Political Battles and Sacrifices

Ukorebi Esien | November 8, 2025

CALABAR - Former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Ben Ayade, has said he still carries the scars of the political battles he fought to protect the sovereignty and strategic interests of the state. Ayade, who governed the state from 2015 to 2023, made the remark in Calabar while addressing journalists shortly after arriving to attend the wedding ceremony of Governor Bassey Otu's son.  

Reflecting on his decision to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2021, the former governor said his action was not driven by personal ambition but by a deep concern for the state's political and economic survival.

"As a leader, I saw what was coming. The crystal ball was clear. Nigeria was moving in a direction where Cross River risked being isolated if we didn't align with the center," Ayade said.
"So I made a conscious decision to lead the state into the APC, not because it was convenient, but because it was necessary. I knew the battle would be tough, and I carry the scars of that battle till today."

The former governor described his administration's decision to "socket to the centre" as a move born out of foresight and patriotism. According to him, aligning with the federal government was the only way to safeguard the state's interests and ensure its continued relevance in national politics.

"Cross River is a state that has suffered marginalization and economic deprivation for years. I believed that aligning with the federal government would help us access more opportunities. That decision came with consequences, political opposition, betrayal, and misrepresentation, but I have no regrets," he said.

Ayade, who also represented Cross River North in the Senate before becoming governor, said his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC remains unwavering.

"I was one of the first to openly endorse President Tinubu, even before the APC primaries. I said it then, if Tinubu could fix Lagos, he could fix Nigeria. I believed in his capacity, and I still do," he said.
"President Tinubu knows me well; our relationship predates his presidency. He understands my intentions, and I believe he will surprise this country with his leadership."

Ayade's remarks, which came in a calm but reflective tone, appeared to convey both a sense of pride and pain, pride in his political foresight, and pain from the challenges he faced while trying to reposition Cross River politically and his subsequent loss of his second attempt to the senate during the 2023 general election. 

Political analysts interpret his comments as a subtle reminder of his contributions to strengthening the APC's hold in the South-South and a sign that the former governor still holds significant political capital in the region.

Addressing the Mammoth crowd that trooped out to receive him at the airport, the ex-governor, popularly known as the digital governor of Cross River State, said he was in the state not for political reasons but to attend the wedding of the governor's son. Ayade, describing the Governor as the leader of the party in the state, added that in due time, he will surely visit the state for politics.  

Observers also note that Ayade's appearance in Calabar and his engagement with journalists mark a quiet political reawakening, one that could signal a renewed involvement in the state's affairs ahead of future political realignments.
As he put it himself, "I carry the scars, but I also carry the satisfaction that I did what was right for my people."

Duke Mourns Sportsman Orok Edwards Imaha as He Is Laid to Rest in Calabar

CALABAR — The Commissioner representing Cross River State on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Orok Otu Duke, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran sportsman, Mr. Orok Edwards Imaha, who was laid to rest in Calabar on Wednesday.

Speaking at the solemn burial ceremony, Chief Duke described Imaha as "a true sportsman" whose life exemplified discipline, vitality, and friendship. "Orok Edwards Imaha was a sportsman," he said. "We'd always check on health because of complications that come with age."

The brief but heartfelt remark reflected the bond the two men shared through sports and mutual concern for wellness. Imaha, who passed away on August 24, 2025, at the age of 59, was remembered as a man deeply passionate about physical fitness and the camaraderie that came with it.

The burial, attended by family, friends, and associates, was both emotional and inspiring a celebration of a life well-lived in pursuit of health and community spirit.

A memorial card bearing his image and the inscription, "What we once enjoyed and deeply loved, we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us," served as a reminder that his legacy will endure in the hearts of many.

Born on September 4, 1965, Orok Edwards Imaha leaves behind a legacy of strength, friendship, and devotion to sporting excellence — qualities that will be fondly remembered by the Cross River sporting community.

Jarigbe: Exodus Looms as PDP Cross River North Stakeholders Declare Support for Tinubu, Gov Otu

 Judex OKORO  | October 29, 2025

CALABAR – A sweeping political shift is gathering momentum in Cross River North senatorial district, as influential stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have signaled plans to defect en masse to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in solidarity with Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe. 

Recall that on October 22, 2025 Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Senator representing Cross River North, had on October 22, 2025 visited Aso Rock Villa to officially inform President Bola Tinubu of his defection to the ruling party.

Jarigbe followed it up with a visit to Cross River State chairman of APC, Alphonsus Eba, Esq, also notifying him of his defection and readiness to work with the leadership to reposition the party in the northern senatorial district.

And in continuation of his consultation, Jarigbe convened a strategic meeting in Abuja with top PDP figures from the zone to review the political landscape and chart a new direction. 

The move, if finalized, is expected to significantly alter the political equation in the northern senatorial zone ahead of the next election cycle.

Discussions at the meeting held at in ROCKVIEW Hotel, Abuja on Tuesday, reportedly centered on aligning with what participants described as the "progressive direction" of the state under Governor Bassey Otu and the reform-driven agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking at the meeting, Jarigbe siad he moved over to APC to assist President Bola Tinubu in repositioning the country for greater heights.

He said defecting to the ruling party will not stop him from empowering the constituents and embarking on people-oriented projects and to alleviate the sufferings of the zone, assuring the stakeholders of regular consultations and better days are ahead.

Speaking, the Cross River State PDP chairman, Venatius Ikem, Esq, commended Sen. Jarigbe for the bold step taken so far, promising to go back to the State Executive members for further consultations on the next line of action.

In a united front, the stakeholders pledged their support for Governor Otu's administration and President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. 

They further disclosed their intention to officially join the APC alongside Senator Jarigbe after wider consultations, describing the anticipated mass defection as a strategic realignment to give Cross River North a stronger voice in both state and national politics.

Present at the meeting include Hon. Godwin Offiono, representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Austin Edibe; former Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Tom Ogar and Mike Aniah, Esq; Dr. DornKlamz Enamhe, Dr. Paul Ibiala, Hon Peter Ignodor and several other party stalwarts.

Political observers describe this development as a major blow to the PDP in Cross River, especially in the North where the party once held an unshaken grip.

 If the planned defection materialises, it could effectively collapse the PDP's political structure in the zone and strengthen the APC's dominance as Governor Otu continues to consolidate his influence across the state.

NICE Confers Fellowship Awards on Governor Otu’s Aides

Ukorebi Esien  | October 24, 2025

KANO – Two senior aides to the Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, have been honoured by the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE) for their outstanding contributions to infrastructure development and engineering excellence.

At the 23rd International Civil Engineering Conference held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, inside the Coronation Hall of the Kano Government House, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Ankpo, and the Special Adviser on Public Utilities, Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe, received top honours from the professional body.

Engr. Dr. Egbe was conferred with the Fellowship of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers in recognition of his remarkable achievements in both academic and professional circles. A senior lecturer in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Dr. Egbe has held various leadership roles within NICE, including Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Calabar Chapter, as well as National Organizing Secretary in 2018.

In his remarks, Dr. Egbe dedicated the honour to the visionary leadership of Governor Otu and the collective efforts of staff in the Department of Public Utilities. He also extended an invitation to the leadership of NICE to visit Cross River State for an on-the-spot assessment of the numerous infrastructure projects being executed by the Otu-led administration.

Similarly, Hon. Pius Ankpo was conferred with an Honorary Fellowship of NICE in recognition of his dynamic leadership and commitment to the governor's vision of delivering durable, high-quality infrastructure across the state. Though not an engineer by profession, Ankpo's passion for excellence and his results-oriented approach have earned him respect within the engineering community.

The recognitions were described as well-deserved tributes to both men for their professionalism, dedication, and service to humanity.

Observers say the awards reflect Governor Otu's resolve to build a competent and visionary team that shares his mission of transforming Cross River State through strategic infrastructure and sustainable development.

Dignitaries at the event included Hon. Okon Owuna, Member representing Akamkpa Constituency I; Hon. Linus Bassey, Member representing Akamkpa Constituency II; Hon. Engr. Thomas Aruku, Member representing Ogoja Constituency; and the Director of Civil Engineering, Engineering Services Department, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Cross River State.

Over 30 Stakeholders Trained in Community-Led TB Monitoring to Improve TB Case Detection and Service Quality in C'River

 Ukorebi Esien | October 24, 2025

CALABAR – In a renewed effort to deepen community participation and accountability in tuberculosis (TB) response, over 30 stakeholders drawn from civil society organizations, TB survivors, and community-based groups in Cross River State have undergone a two-day start-up training on Community-Led Monitoring (CLM) of TB services.

The training, organized by the Civil Society for the Eradication of Tuberculosis in Nigeria (TB Network) with support from the Global Fund through the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), is part of a national pilot project being implemented across 11 states in Nigeria, including Cross River, and will run until 2026.

According to Olayide Akanni, the National Coordinator of the Civil Society for the Control of Tuberculosis in Nigeria (TB Network), the CLM model is designed to place communities at the heart of service delivery improvement.

"The whole idea of Community-Led Monitoring is to go into the communities, identify the challenges limiting the uptake of TB services, and find ways to resolve them. We're not just going to be finding problems; we are working with communities to solve them," Akanni stated.
"This is about partnership, learning, and shared responsibility. The communities are not just beneficiaries; they are co-creators of solutions that make TB services more accessible and effective."

Akanni explained that in Cross River State, three Local Government Areas; Odukpani, Ikom, and Obudu, have been selected for the pilot phase, strategically drawn from the three senatorial districts of the state based on TB burden and accessibility indicators.

She noted that the project seeks to strengthen the feedback loop between service users and providers by empowering community monitors to collect real-time data on service delivery, stigma, and human rights concerns, which will be used to inform corrective actions.

Speaking with our correspondent, Elder Mrs Ajom Ikongha, the Cross River State Program Manager for Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, commended the initiative, describing it as "an extra cap" added to the state's TB response.

"This project will help us diagnose more cases and build confidence among those affected. When TB survivors speak up and say, 'I've been there and I'm fine,' it reduces stigma and encourages others to come out for testing and treatment," Ikongha said.
"Even though only three LGAs are part of the pilot, we're happy Cross River was selected. The lessons here will eventually benefit the entire state."

In her goodwill message, the Dr Vivien Otu, Director General of the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA) represented by a key staff of the Agency Grace Ikung, described the CLM initiative as "a bold step toward localizing solutions for better health outcomes."

"We are proud to see communities take ownership of TB response. When citizens monitor, report, and suggest solutions, government gets the clarity needed to act faster and smarter," She said.
"Our Agency is committed to working closely with the TB Network to ensure that these community-generated insights translate into real policy and service improvements."

 The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) representative, Barr. Ann Awah emphasized the intersection between health, rights, and gender, stressing that TB survivors, especially women, must be empowered to speak without fear of discrimination.

"TB is not a moral failure; it's a public health issue. Women living with TB face double stigma, so part of our advocacy is ensuring that no woman loses her dignity or access to care because of her diagnosis," she said.

Similarly, a representative of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Mr Remi  assured participants of the Commission's commitment to safeguarding the rights of TB patients and health workers.

"Our role is to ensure that no patient is denied treatment or discriminated against because of TB. We will continue to provide platforms for redress and ensure that every citizen enjoys their right to health without bias," the NHRC official stated.

Participants were trained on data collection tools, community feedback systems, and advocacy engagement techniques, understanding human rights, types of violations and the role of data in monitoring Abuses. They also developed a state-level monitoring plan to ensure that findings from the field are channelled into actionable steps for system improvement.

The training, described by participants as "a practical and inclusive approach to public health accountability," is expected to boost TB case notification, enhance service quality, and build trust between communities and health facilities in Cross River State.

FGGC Emerges Champion of Cross River’s Maiden Tech Spark AI Challenge for Secondary Schools

Ukorebi Esien |  October 21, 2025 

CALABAR - Federal Government Girls' College (FGGC), Calabar, has emerged overall winner of the Tech Spark Artificial Intelligence (AI) Challenge for Secondary Schools, recently held in Cross River State, outshining nineteen other schools in a two-day competition that celebrated creativity, innovation, and digital intelligence.

The contest, which was organised by the True Elites Group in collaboration with the Cross River State Ministry of Youth Development and Skills Acquisition, featured three major segments: debate, quiz, and AI product presentation, all aimed at promoting technological literacy and problem-solving skills among students.

At the end of the keenly contested challenge, FGGC Calabar clinched the first position, while West African People's Institute (WAPI), Diamond Hill Road, came second, and St. Patrick's College, Ikot Ansa, finished third.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Commissioner for Education, Senator Stephen Odey, who represented the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, commended the organisers and participants for what he described as a "remarkable stride in reawakening educational innovation and excellence among young people."

"The future belongs to those who can think critically and innovate. What we have witnessed today gives us hope that Cross River students are ready to compete globally," Senator Odey said.
"As a government, we are committed to integrating technology-driven learning into our school system to prepare our students for the digital economy."

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth Development and Skills Acquisition, Barr. Ukam Ijom, applauded the initiative and reaffirmed the government's resolve to empower young people with 21st-century skills.

"This challenge is not just about competition; it is about preparing our young people for the realities of a new world order driven by technology," Ijom said.
"Our youths must not only consume technology but create it. What we have seen here today proves that Cross River students are capable of building solutions that can transform our economy."

He further stated that the outcome of the challenge has shattered long-held perceptions about public schools and the capacity of young people from the state.

"For too long, we have believed that our public schools cannot compete. This event has put that notion to rest. Our students have shown brilliance, confidence, and originality. They only need the right platforms and this government is determined to provide those platforms," the commissioner added.

Ijom also hinted that the Ministry will work with private partners like the True Elites Group to institutionalize similar programs that combine skills training, mentorship, and innovation labs across the state.

"We will continue to support creative ideas like this, because our young people deserve the opportunity to learn, experiment, and lead. The future of Cross River State rests in their hands," he affirmed.

In her remarks, the Founder and President of True Elites Group, Ms. Bassey Ekpeyong, explained that the competition was designed to stimulate early interest in technology and artificial intelligence among secondary school students.

"We realized that most tech programs focus on university students. The True Elites Group decided to start earlier — at the secondary school level — where curiosity and innovation can best be nurtured," Ms Ekpeyong said.

She added that the performance of the students was inspiring, describing their presentations and debates as evidence of strong intellectual and creative capacity among Cross River students.

"Their understanding of AI concepts, their curiosity, and their confidence show that with the right guidance, these students can build world-class innovations. "This experience has reaffirmed our belief that Cross River and Nigeria have the human capital needed to lead Africa's digital future." The Calabar born entreprenuer added.

Ms Ekpeyong disclosed that the Tech Spark Challenge will extend across the six South-South states, with Cross River serving as the pilot phase. Winners received ₦1 million, a brand-new laptop, and a one-year intensive training in AI and technology, while second price winners recieved N500,000, a brand-new tablet, and third place winners received a cash prizes of N200,000, a phone and  one-year intensive training in AI and technology also goes to both the second and third place winners

She also announced plans to establish Digital Literacy and AI Clubs across secondary schools in the state to sustain the momentum and provide continuous learning opportunities for students.

About 20 secondary schools within Calabar metropolis participated in the challenge, including Hope Waddell Training Institute, Government Technical College, Edgeley Memorial Girls' Secondary School, and Government Technical Secondary School, Mayne Avenue, among others.

Gov Otu Signs Two Bills to Strengthen Education, Land Administration Frameworks in C'River

CALABAR - Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has signed into law two pivotal bills passed by the State House of Assembly the Cross River State, namely, the College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Obubra (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Cross River State Office of the Surveyor-General Bill, 2025, marking another milestone in his administration's commitment to institutional reforms and sustainable development.

Speaking during the signing ceremony held at the conference room, Government House, Calabar, Governor Otu lauded the State House of Assembly for its steadfast collaboration and proactive legislative engagement with the executive arm, describing the partnership as a model of effective governance.

"It is because of the House," the Governor said. "The collaboration and co-working have been wonderful. Your proactiveness is second to none. I believe our relationship will continue to grow stronger by the day."

He noted that the new laws would significantly strengthen education, land management, and governance structures in the state, aligning with his administration's People First agenda aimed at improving livelihoods through institutional efficiency and inclusiveness.

Governor Otu, while appending his signature to the bills, emphasized that education and institutional stability are central to his development blueprint for the state. He stressed that the new laws would help reposition key sectors for optimal performance and credibility.

"Without education, we could not be here," the Governor remarked. "What we are doing is to put our state on a proper pedestal for progress. We are very focused, and we'll continue to strengthen institutions that support growth and innovation."

In his executive summary of the two bills, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly explained that the Cross River State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Obubra (Amendment) Bill, 2025 seeks to amend the existing College of Agriculture Law to upgrade the institution from a monotechnic to a polytechnic.

The amendment, according to the Speaker, adds "Science and Technology" to the College's title and mandate, thereby broadening its academic scope and enabling it to access TETFund, a Federal Government intervention fund reserved for multi-sectoral higher institutions of learning.

"The amendment will allow the institution to benefit from infrastructural support through TETFund, while expanding its role in agricultural innovation, science, and technology-driven education," the Speaker stated.

On the Cross River State Office of the Surveyor-General Bill, 2025, the Speaker highlighted that the legislation provides a long-overdue legal framework for the Office, which had previously operated as an appendage of the Ministry of Lands without statutory backing, despite its autonomy.

"This Bill establishes a solid legal foundation for the Office of the Surveyor-General, clearly defining its functions, powers, and administrative structure," he said.
"It contains four parts and twenty-three sections that cover establishment, staffing, financial provisions, and general guidelines. When assented to, it will adequately empower the Office to function with autonomy, efficiency, and legal protection."

The Secretary to the Government of the State, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh; the Attorney General of the State and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem Ani, Esq.; the Clerk of the House of Assembly, among other government officials attended the signing ceremony.

NOA Issues Clarification on Official Protocol for Reciting National Anthem and Pledge

Ukorebi Esien | October 21, 2025

CALABAR – The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has released official guidelines on the correct rendition and recitation of Nigeria's National Anthem and Pledge, in a bid to standardize practice at official and public functions across the country.

In a statement made available by the Agency, Nigerians are reminded that only the first stanza of the National Anthem is to be sung or recited at official events, while the third stanza serves as the National Prayer and should be rendered at the beginning of such occasions.

According to the directive, all three stanzas of the anthem are to be recited or sung only during major national events such as Independence Day celebrations, Presidential inaugurations, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy Day (June 12), and the inauguration of the National Assembly.

The Agency further stated that the National Pledge should be recited at the end of every official event, reaffirming national unity and commitment to patriotic values.

In addition to the protocol clarification, the NOA also addressed common errors often made in the recitation of the anthem. The agency highlighted corrections such as replacing "tribe" with "tribes," "tongue" with "tongues," "Nigerians all, and" with "Nigerians all, are," and "Nigeria shall be blessed" with the correct phrase, "Nigeria may be blessed."

These corrections, NOA explained, are part of efforts to preserve the authenticity of the anthem as originally composed and to foster national consciousness through accurate rendition.

The NOA reiterated its commitment to promoting national identity, civic education, and unity among Nigerians through continuous sensitization and public enlightenment campaigns.