The Old National Anthem Signed Into Law By President Bola Tinubu

In a significant move marking the 25th anniversary of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law, effectively replacing the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with the old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” This change was officially announced during a joint session of the National Assembly on May 29, 2024.

The old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” was initially adopted when Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960. It was later replaced in 1978 during the military regime led by Olusegun Obasanjo. The decision to revert to the old anthem was influenced by the belief that it evokes more emotional connections with the Nigerian people and better reflects the country’s aspirations. The Senate and the House of Representatives had previously passed the legislation to swap the national anthem in separate sittings.

President Tinubu’s signing of the National Anthem Bill into law was part of the activities marking his first year in office. The law has since taken effect, with members of the National Assembly singing the old anthem at the end of the joint session addressed by the President. This move has been met with a mixed response from the public, with some praising the return to the old anthem as a symbol of national pride and unity, while others question the necessity of such a change.