Outrage Erupts Over Nigeria's National Anthem Change

 

 Some Nigerians have expressed outrage after the country's national anthem was changed with little consultation.

President Bola Tinubu signed a bill on Wednesday to revert to Nigeria’s old national anthem, which was replaced by a military government in 1978.

The newly re-adopted anthem, "Nigeria, We Hail Thee," was written by Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances Berda.

Speaking on his first anniversary in office, President Tinubu said the anthem symbolizes Nigeria's diversity. However, many have questioned his priorities amid the cost-of-living crisis.

Reacting online, some Nigerians said the country had more pressing problems such as insecurity, rising inflation, and a foreign exchange crisis.

X user @Gospel_rxx posted: “A new national anthem is the priority for Tinubu & Co at a time like this? When our people can't eat, insecurity is rife & life is hell? What a sordid joke! Let's see how they implement it...”

Another X user, Fola Folayan, criticized the parliament's haste in passing the bill, calling it "shameful" that the anthem written by a Nigerian was replaced by one written by colonizers.

Former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili declared on X that she would continue to sing the old anthem "Arise O Compatriots," which has been in use for the past 46 years.

Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad commented on the ongoing debate, suggesting that some people are now calling for changes to the name and flag of Nigeria as well.

Tahir Mongunu, chairman of the parliamentary committee that pushed the bill through, dismissed the widespread criticism, calling the change "apt, timely, and important" for promoting patriotism and cultural heritage.

Kano resident Habu Shamsu expressed support, telling the BBC, “I think it is more encompassing, and I like the way it flows.”

Comparison of Nigeria's National Anthems

Arise, O Compatriots (1978–2024)

First Stanza:

"Arise, O Compatriots, Nigeria's call obey.
To serve our fatherland.
With love and strength and faith.
The labour of our heroes past, shall never be in vain.
To serve with heart and might.
One nation bound in freedom, peace, and unity."

Themes and Focus:

• Patriotism and Duty: Calls on Nigerians to rise and serve their country with love, strength, and faith.
• Respect for History: Emphasizes not letting the efforts of past heroes be in vain.
• Unity and Freedom: Stresses the importance of unity, freedom, and peace within the nation.

Tone:

• Motivational and Inspirational: Encourages active participation and dedication to national service.
• Respectful and Solemn: Honors the sacrifices of those who came before and underscores a collective commitment to national ideals.

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Nigeria, We Hail Thee (1960–1978, Re-adopted 2024)

First Stanza:

"Nigeria we hail thee.
Our own dear native land.
Though tribes and tongue may differ.
In brotherhood we stand.
Nigerians all, are proud to serve.
Our sovereign motherland."

Themes and Focus:

• National Pride: Expresses pride in the country and its status as a sovereign nation.
• Unity in Diversity: Highlights the unity of Nigerians despite tribal and linguistic differences.
• Service and Brotherhood: Focuses on the collective pride and willingness to serve the nation.

Tone:

• Prideful and Embracing: Celebrates the nation's diversity and unity.
• Inclusive and Harmonious: Emphasizes brotherhood and unity among different groups within the country.

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Key Differences

1. Focus on Service and Sacrifice:

   • "Arise, O Compatriots" emphasizes duty, sacrifice, and the continuity of the efforts of past heroes.
   • "Nigeria, We Hail Thee" focuses more on pride, unity in diversity, and collective service without a direct reference to past sacrifices.

2. Tone and Language:

   • "Arise, O Compatriots" uses a motivational and somewhat solemn tone, calling for active participation and reverence for history.
   • "Nigeria, We Hail Thee" has a celebratory and embracing tone, promoting unity and pride in the nation's diversity.

3. Themes of Unity:

   • Both anthems emphasize unity, but "Arise, O Compatriots" frames it within the context of service and national duty.
   • "Nigeria, We Hail Thee" presents unity more as a harmonious existence among diverse groups.

These differences reflect varied approaches to fostering national identity and patriotism, with the former anthem being more action-oriented and historically reflective, while the latter is more celebratory and inclusive in tone.