The recent decision by the Nigerian National Assembly to revert to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” has sparked a heated debate among Nigerians.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu granted his assent to the legislation on the day it was endorsed by both houses of Nigeria’s legislative body, making it a law.
While some argue that the change is necessary to unite the country and evoke nostalgia for its early years, many others believe that it is a frivolous decision at a time when the country is grappling with pressing economic and social issues.
The old national anthem was composed by Frances Berda, a foreigner, in 1959. This raises questions about the cultural relevance and ownership of the anthem. In contrast, the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” was written by a Nigerian, E.T. Mensah. The difference in composition highlights the need to prioritize national identity and cultural heritage.
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Nigeria is currently facing significant economic and social challenges. The country is struggling to overcome the effects of corruption, poverty, and insecurity. In this context, changing the national anthem seems like a trivial matter that does not address the pressing issues at hand. The country needs to focus on solving its economic and social problems rather than indulging in symbolic gestures.
The lyrics of the old national anthem:
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” are as follows:
“Nigeria, we hail thee,
Our own dear native land,
Though tribe and tongue may differ,In brotherhood we stand,
Nigerians all, and 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 may be blessed.”
The lyrics of the old national anthem emphasize unity, brotherhood, and the pursuit of truth and justice. However, these ideals are not reflected in the current state of Nigeria. The country is plagued by corruption, inequality, and social unrest.
The anthem’s emphasis on “no man being oppressed” is particularly ironic given the widespread poverty and economic inequality in Nigeria.
The decision to change the national anthem was made at a time when the country is struggling to overcome economic and social challenges. This raises questions about the priorities of the National Assembly.
Instead of focusing on solving pressing issues, the government is indulging in symbolic gestures that do not address the root causes of the country’s problems.
Finally, changing the national anthem to “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” is a needless exercise at this critical time. The anthem was composed by a foreigner and does not reflect the current state and aspirations of Nigeria.
The country needs to focus on solving its economic and social problems rather than indulging in symbolic gestures. The decision to change the national anthem is a distraction from the pressing issues at hand and does not contribute to the country’s development.