Is Nigeria going back to the old National Anthem?
The National Anthem Bill 2024 has been approved by the Senate, signaling a return to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, we hail thee.” This bill swiftly passed through its first and second readings on Thursday and now awaits the approval of President Bola Tinubu to become law.
The Senate has decided to replace the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with the old anthem that was originally composed when Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960. This move aims to revive the anthem that was discontinued during Olusegun Obasanjo’s military administration in 1978.
The lyrics for “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” were written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate who resided in Nigeria during its independence, while Frances Berda composed the music. This anthem played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and fostering unity during the 1960s and late 1970s.
Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, highlighted the anthem’s profound impact, stating, “When it was sung, it instilled a deep sense of patriotism among Nigerians. Those who experienced that era acknowledge its pivotal role in our nation’s history, evoking nostalgia and cherished memories of our early years.”
On Monday, the Senate initiated a public hearing regarding an Act concerning the National Anthem of Nigeria and related issues. Bamidele, representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the hearing, proposed that the second stanza of the current national anthem should serve as the national prayer. He also mentioned the possibility of further consultations if deemed necessary.
During the discussion, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, emphasized that any amendment should not be solely through legislative decree but should involve broader consultations. He highlighted that while the reversal was acceptable, it should undergo a comprehensive process to ensure it accurately represents the desires of all Nigerians.
Moreover, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome, highlighted a line from the previous anthem addressing oppression, supporting the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency in stating that changing the national anthem was long overdue.
Ozekhome recalled proposing the anthem change a decade ago during the 2014 CONFAB, where 490 delegates debated and endorsed the idea. He also criticized the current Nigerian flag, describing it as uninspiring compared to flags of the US and South Africa.
Recently, a bill advocating for Nigeria to revert to its old national anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” passed the second reading in the Senate last week and was eventually approved on Tuesday. The bill has also been passed by the House of Representatives. To implement the return to the old anthem, the bill must be harmonized by both chambers and receive the President’s approval.
