THROWBACK: ‘I’d Bring Back First National Anthem If I Had My Way; It Describes Us Better’ –Tinubu Expressed Personal Preference For ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ In 2022 Interview
President Bola Tinubu recently approved the National Anthem Bill 2024, restoring Nigeria to its former national anthem, ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee.’ This decision was announced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a joint session of the National Assembly commemorating the Silver Jubilee of Nigeria’s 4th Republic. Tinubu’s preference for the old national anthem was expressed in a 2022 interview, where he stated a personal fondness for ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ over ‘Arise Oh Compatriots.’
Tinubu’s sentiments reflected a belief that the former anthem better encapsulated the essence of Nigeria, emphasizing themes of service, diversity, and commitment to nation-building. He expressed confusion over the decision to change anthems, suggesting that the original anthem aligned more closely with the country’s values and aspirations.
‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ served as the national anthem from independence in 1960 until 1978 when it was replaced by ‘Arise Oh Compatriots.’ Tinubu’s administration chose to readopt the former anthem in May 2024, reverting to a symbol of Nigeria’s early post-independence identity. The original anthem was penned by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda.
The decision to revert to the old anthem followed a competition held by Nigeria to select a new anthem in the late 1970s. Five winners were chosen, and their lyrics were combined into what became ‘Arise Oh Compatriots,’ composed by Mr. Ben Odiase, the director of the Nigerian Band. However, Tinubu’s administration opted to return to the roots of Nigeria’s independence by reinstating ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ as the national anthem.
This move signifies a desire to reclaim a sense of national identity and pride rooted in Nigeria’s history and cultural heritage. By restoring the original anthem, Tinubu aims to evoke a spirit of unity and patriotism among Nigerians, emphasizing the values of service, diversity, and commitment to nation-building.
In conclusion, President Tinubu’s approval of the National Anthem Bill 2024 marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s cultural and symbolic landscape. The decision to revert to the former national anthem reflects a broader sentiment of nostalgia and a desire to embrace the foundational principles upon which the country was built. As Nigeria celebrates its Silver Jubilee, the restoration of ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ serves as a reminder of the nation’s rich history and enduring resilience.
SaharaReporters
