The Federal Government of Nigeria has sparked controversy by reverting to the colonial-era national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, replacing the 1978 version, “Arise O’ Compatriots”. President Bola Tinubu signed the bill into law on Wednesday, attracting widespread condemnation from Nigerians who deem it a misplaced priority amidst economic hardship. The evolution of Nigeria’s national anthem dates back to 1959, when the country gained independence from British colonial rule. The first national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, was written by a British expatriate, Lillian Jean Williams, and was adopted as a temporary measure.
In 1978, a new national anthem, “Arise O’ Compatriots”, was introduced, written by a Nigerian, Benedict Odiase. This change was seen as a step towards decolonization and a move to assert Nigeria’s independence. The return to the old national anthem has been justified by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, as a means to reconnect with Nigeria’s “genealogy” and “brotherhood”. He argued that the old anthem reminds Nigerians of their history, struggles, and triumphs, and that it is a step towards reclaiming the country’s lost glory.
Outrage as Nigerians label the change as nostalgia.
However, many Nigerians have expressed outrage, labelling it a nostalgic move that prioritizes the past over pressing national issues. Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has vowed to continue singing the old national anthem, calling the new law “obnoxious” and “repugnant”. She argued that the change is a distraction from the country’s real problems, such as poverty, insecurity, and corruption. Senator Sheu Sanni has also criticized the move, stating that Nigeria faces serious economic and Security challenges, but is prioritizing changing its national anthem.
Nigerians from various walks of life have taken to Social Media to express their dissatisfaction, with many questioning the benefits of reverting to the old national anthem. Some have argued that it is a step backward, while others see it as a nostalgic move that resonates with citizens from all walks of life. Many have also pointed out that the change is not in line with the country’s progress and development, and that it is a waste of resources and time.
Calculated move to appease specific political interests?
The controversy surrounding the national anthem highlights the ongoing debate about Nigeria’s identity, history, and priorities. The country is grappling with issues of national unity, economic development, and political stability, and the change in the national anthem has sparked questions about the government’s priorities and commitment to progress. Some have argued that the change is a symbol of the government’s lack of vision and leadership, and that it is a missed opportunity to engage with the country’s real problems.
Others have viewed the decision to revert to the old national anthem as a calculated move to appease specific political interests and divert attention from the government’s shortcomings. The national anthem represents national identity and unity, and any changes to it should be thoroughly thought out and openly discussed. However, the government’s unilateral decision to reinstate the old anthem without extensive consultation and debate has provoked widespread outrage and disappointment among many Nigerians, who feel their voices have been ignored and their national symbol disrespected. This move has further eroded trust in the government and highlighted its disconnect from the people.
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To sum up, the controversy surrounding the national anthem highlights the ongoing debate about Nigeria’s identity, history, and priorities. The country is grappling with issues of national unity, economic development, and political stability, and the change in the national anthem has sparked questions about the government’s priorities and commitment to progress. The government should engage in widespread consultation and debate before making such changes, and should prioritize the country’s real problems over nostalgic moves. Also, the government should consider the implications of reverting to a colonial-era national anthem.