President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, has signed a bill passed by the National Assembly to revert to the colonial era national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”. The move has been widely condemned by Nigerians, who consider it a misplaced priority amidst economic hardship and security challenges.
The old national anthem replaces the 1978 version, “Arise O’ Compatriots”. Many have expressed disappointment and frustration, describing the move as a step backward and a nostalgic attempt to revisit the past.
Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, rejected the change, calling the new law “obnoxious” and “repugnant to all who are of good conscience in Nigeria”. She vowed to continue singing the old national anthem at public functions.
Senator Shehu Sanni also criticized the move, saying Nigeria is facing serious economic and security challenges, but the government is prioritizing changing the national anthem.
Despite the criticism, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, justified the change, saying it is a significant step towards reclaiming Nigeria’s heritage and returning to its lost glory.
Nigerians from various walks of life have taken to social media to express their dissatisfaction, describing the move as a distraction from the country’s pressing issues, such as poverty, insecurity, and economic hardship. They argue that the government should focus on addressing these challenges rather than revisiting the past.