FG Approves New National Prayer From National Anthem
By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde
The Federal Executive Council has approved a new National Prayer, replacing the existing one with the third stanza of the current National Anthem.
As gathered by OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News on Tuesday, this change will take effect during official events and is part of a broader initiative to elevate the significance of national symbols.
In addition, the Council endorsed the standardization and restoration of respect for symbols like the national flag, coat of arms, anthem, and pledge.
It was also decided that only the first stanza of the National Anthem should be sung at official functions, while all three stanzas will be reserved for special occasions like Independence Day, Democracy Day, and Armed Forces Remembrance Day, among others.
The previous National Prayer, derived from the second stanza of the old anthem "Arise O Compatriots," is now replaced by the third stanza of the current anthem "Nigeria We Hail Thee":
Former National Prayer:
"Oh God of creation,
Direct our noble cause;
Guide our leaders right,
Help our youth the truth to know,
In love and honesty to grow,
And living just and true,
Great lofty heights attain,
To build a nation where peace and justice shall reign."
New National Prayer:
"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."
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