The Nigerian Senate has passed the National Anthem Bill 2024, which seeks to replace the current national anthem, ‘Arise O Compatriots’, with the old anthem used after independence in 1960, ‘Nigeria We Hail Thee’.
The bill, which passed its third reading on Tuesday, now awaits concurrence and ultimately President Bola Tinubu’s assent before it becomes law.
The bill garnered substantial attention and debate in both chambers of the National Assembly. The Senate passed the bill after considering a detailed report presented by the chairman of the judiciary committee, Tahir Monguno. Despite the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, expressing the need for wider consultation, the committee and lawmakers were resolute in their decision.
“The proposed bill is important,” Monguno stated, noting the sentiment shared by many senators. The bill’s swift passage through the Senate, following its accelerated approval by the House of Representatives just days earlier, indicates a strong legislative will to revert to the old anthem.
A Symbol of Unity and Nostalgia
Senate leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who represented Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the public hearing, highlighted the emotional and historical significance of the old anthem.
“Upon rendition, it inspired deep patriotism among Nigerians. Those who lived through that era recognise its crucial role in our nation’s history, evoking nostalgia and fond memories of our early years,” Bamidele remarked.
Victor Umeh, senator representing Anambra Central, argued passionately for the old anthem’s return. He emphasized that the anthem ‘Nigeria We Hail Thee’ better symbolizes unity, peace, and prosperity for the nation.
Criticisms of the Current Anthem
During the debates, several senators criticized the current anthem for its perceived lack of inclusivity and motivational impact. Jimoh Ibrahim (APC-Ondo) questioned the phrasing, “Arise, O compatriot,” pointing out its exclusivity. “What about non-compatriots? How do we convert them to become compatriots? That is why I said this language is elusive,” Ibrahim argued.
Victor Umeh supported this critique, noting that the old anthem had all the “ingredients of a nation” and was inherently more motivational. Diket Plang (APC-Plateau) echoed these sentiments, stating that unity and brotherhood, as fostered by the old anthem, are crucial for national cohesion.
The New National Prayer
Another significant aspect of the bill is the designation of the second stanza of the current anthem as the national prayer. Bamidele explained that this move aims to retain a piece of the existing anthem that has resonated deeply with Nigerians, providing a bridge between the old and the new (or rather, old) anthem.
The old anthem, ‘Nigeria We Hail Thee’, was adopted at independence in 1960 and is remembered fondly by many Nigerians who see it as a true reflection of the country’s aspirations at the time. By reinstating this anthem, lawmakers believe they are tapping into a period of Nigerian history marked by hope and a strong sense of national identity.
Public Criticism and Controversy
Despite the legislative support, the bill has faced significant criticism from the public. Many Nigerians have expressed their discontent, arguing that the National Assembly should prioritize more pressing issues such as the economy, security, and social welfare.
On social media and various platforms, critics have pointed out that the country is grappling with high inflation, unemployment, and a deteriorating security situation. They argue that changing the national anthem does not address these urgent problems and reflects a misallocation of legislative priorities.
The National Anthem Bill 2024 now awaits the President’s assent to become law. If signed, Nigeria will revert to an anthem that many believe captures the essence of the nation’s unity and pride more effectively than the current anthem.
However, the debate surrounding this bill highlights a broader issue about national identity, patriotism, and Nigerian unity.
