The House of Representatives has passed a bill to revert to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, which was replaced in 1978 by the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots”. The bill was quickly passed through all three readings within minutes.
Proponents of the bill, led by House Leader Professor Julius Ihonvbere, argue that the old anthem is a national symbol and sign of authority that acknowledges the country’s realities.
However, Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda opposed the bill, citing the old anthem’s colonial origins and the need to prioritize more pressing national challenges.
The bill has also received support in the Senate, where it has scaled through first and second reading and been referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for further review.
If enacted, the bill would restore “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the national anthem, potentially promoting a sense of unity, peace, and prosperity among Nigerians.
