President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the outlawing of the current national anthem and return of the old.
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The president on arrival at a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday confirmed “Nigeria, we hail thee” as the country’s “latest national anthem.”
“This morning, Mr President signed into an Act of Parliament, the newly passed National Anthem 2024,” Senate President, Godswill Akpabio said on Wednesday at the joint session of the National Assembly marking the Silver Jubilee of Nigeria’s Republic.
Nigeria’s new National Anthem
Nigeria we hail thee
Our own dear native land
Though tribes and tongue may differ
In brotherhood we stand
Nigerians all, are proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.
Our flag shall be a symbol
That truth and justice reign
In peace or battle honour’d,
And this we count as gain,
To hand on to our children
A banner without stain.
O God of all creation
Grant this our one request.
Help us to build a nation
Where no man is oppressed
And so with peace and plenty
Nigeria shall be blessed.
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” is the national anthem of Nigeria, used from independence in 1960 until 1978.
“Arise, O Compatriots,” was adopted in 1978, replacing “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.
Lillian Jean Williams, a British citizen, who lived in Nigeria prior to independence, wrote the lyrics for “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” while Frances Berda composed the music. It was adopted at Nigeria’s first national anthem on October 1, 1960.
The anthem played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and unity during the 1960s and late 1970s.
In his contribution, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), said the amendment should not come only by legislative fiat, but should be subjected to a wider consultation.
“I am of the considered opinion that the revered issue of choice of a national item should not come into being only by legislative fiat, or presidential proclamation alone.
“It is not out of place for Nigeria to be guided by the process of evolution of a national anthem in other jurisdictions.”
Nnamdi Maduakor is a Writer, Investor and Entrepreneur
