The Ondo State Government has called on residents, indigenes in the diaspora, as well as friends and admirers of the state to embrace and promote the state anthem as a symbol of unity, shared identity and cultural heritage.

The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Idowu Ajanaku, made the appeal on Wednesday, urging the people to take ownership of the initiative and incorporate the anthem into their daily lives.

The government described the anthem as more than a patriotic composition, noting that it embodies the state’s shared history, cherished values, cultural identity and collective aspirations.

As part of efforts to ensure wider awareness and appreciation of the anthem, the government has encouraged residents to adopt it as their Caller Ring Back Tune (CRBT), thereby providing an opportunity for friends, associates and callers from different locations to listen to and become familiar with it.

Interested members of the public can subscribe to the service by dialling 3092512#

The government also called on corporate organisations, public institutions, traditional rulers, religious bodies, youth organisations, students and other stakeholders to support the initiative and promote its acceptance across the state and beyond.

Ajanaku emphasised that the promotion of the anthem should be seen as a collective responsibility, as well as an opportunity for indigenes and residents to showcase the rich cultural heritage, uniqueness and identity of Ondo State.

He explained that the initiative was designed to strengthen the people’s sense of belonging, preserve the state’s heritage and promote the enduring values that distinguish Ondo State as the Sunshine State.

The government expressed optimism that increased public participation would make the anthem a unifying symbol among the people, irrespective of their locations, backgrounds or affiliations.