The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to seek official permission before using the national anthem to prevent potential misinterpretation. This directive was issued by the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, in a statement released on Wednesday, October 8.

While the specific contexts in which permission is required were not detailed, the NOA emphasized its role as the custodian of national symbols, tasked with preventing misuse. “Permission must be sought from the Agency before using the National Anthem to avoid misrepresentation,” the statement noted.

Issa-Onilu also clarified the proper design of the Nigerian flag, stating that the correct shade of green is Emerald 2.0. He highlighted that past administrations had focused predominantly on infrastructure, neglecting value orientation, which led to the decline of institutions like the Boys’ Scouts, Girls’ Brigade, and the WAI Brigade.

The current administration, however, is committed to reversing this trend, with President Tinubu offering support to the NOA. Issa-Onilu further urged the production of local cartoon content to counter foreign influences affecting young Nigerians.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje, has extended his condolences to the families of five police officers who tragically lost their lives in a motor accident while returning from Edo State.

Speaking at the Bichi Central Mosque, where prayers were offered for the deceased officers, Ganduje described the incident as a significant loss for the Nigeria Police Force, himself, and the nation as a whole.

To support the bereaved families, Ganduje announced a donation of N2 million to each of the five families of the deceased officers and N1 million to ten officers who were injured in the accident.

“I decided to personally come down to Bichi because of the gravity of the situation, and because these officers died in active service,” Ganduje stated, emphasizing the officers’ dedication to their duty.

In addition, Rep. Kabir Abubakar, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, also expressed his condolences to the families, offering prayers and support during this difficult time.

The Kano State Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening its long-standing relationship with India to enhance the socio-economic development of the state.

In a statement released by the spokesperson for Governor Abba Yusuf, Alhaji Sanusi Tofa, on Friday, the governor emphasized the importance of the partnership during a meeting with the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Shri Balasubramanian, who paid a courtesy visit to Kano.

Governor Yusuf highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Kano State and India in areas such as education, health, agriculture, technology, and trade, underscoring the need to further solidify these connections for mutual benefit.

“We are impressed by India’s rapid development in the education and healthcare sectors, which has made it a preferred destination for hundreds of Kano indigenes seeking quality education and medical treatment,” Yusuf said.

He assured that the Kano State Government would continue collaborating with India to advance its two major power projects at Tiga and Challawa, aimed at reviving dormant industries and boosting the state’s socio-economic growth.

In response, High Commissioner Balasubramanian expressed his intention to work closely with the Kano State Government across various sectors. He also commended Governor Yusuf for implementing impactful projects and initiatives that have improved the living conditions of Kano residents.