Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, has challenged citizens to stop treating the national anthem as a mere ceremonial routine and begin singing all its verses, insisting that the message contained in the anthem is too important to be ignored.

Speaking on Monday during the graduation lecture for participants of Course 34 at the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja, Musa expressed concern over what he described as the growing habit of Nigerians singing only a portion of the anthem during public events.

According to the minister, many citizens have become accustomed to rendering only one stanza—often the final verse—while completely overlooking the remaining parts of the national symbol.

Questioning the rationale behind the practice, Musa urged Nigerians to reflect on the significance of the anthem and the values it seeks to promote.

“There is no reason for that to become the norm. What hurry are you in? What could be so important that you cannot take a little time to sing the entire anthem?” he asked.

The Defence Minister stressed that the national anthem represents more than just a song, describing it as a powerful expression of Nigeria’s identity, unity, and collective aspirations.

He noted that the anthem serves as a constant reminder that despite ethnic, religious, and political differences, Nigerians share a common destiny and must work together for the progress of the country.

Musa encouraged citizens to go beyond merely reciting the anthem and take time to carefully study its words, line by line, to fully understand the ideals and responsibilities it places on every Nigerian.

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According to him, a deeper appreciation of the anthem’s message could help foster patriotism, national consciousness, and a stronger sense of belonging among citizens.

“What we need in this country is unity; that is what the anthem tries to teach and imbibe in us as citizens of the country,” he said.

The minister also praised President Bola Tinubu for restoring the former national anthem, describing the move as a bold and thoughtful decision aimed at strengthening national values and identity.

He said the reintroduction of the anthem reflected the President’s vision for a more united and patriotic Nigeria, adding that national symbols play a critical role in shaping citizens’ commitment to the country.

Musa’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about patriotism, nation-building, and the role of national symbols in fostering unity at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with social, economic, and security challenges.

His message was clear: the national anthem is not just a song to be hurried through at official gatherings, but a call to unity, service, and shared responsibility that every Nigerian should embrace in full.