Nigeria’s National Assembly is stirring a national debate with a proposed return to the country’s original anthem, “Nigeria We Hail Thee.” The House of Representatives swiftly passed a bill on May 23rd, 2024, advocating for the switch from the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots.”
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, replaced in 1978 with the current “Arise, O Compatriots,” has some lawmakers yearning for a return to its perceived spirit of unity. House Leader Professor Julius Ihonvbere champions the bill, arguing it better reflects national pride.
Every lawmaker sang along. They argued that the old anthem would promote a better symbol of unity, peace, and prosperity, compared to the current one.
The bill now heads to the Senate, where it has already cleared two hurdles. However, a final decision awaits review by the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters. Nigerians are watching closely. If the bill gets the green light from both Houses and the President, the nation could be belting out a new (old) anthem in a few weeks.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
