As Nigerian Lawmakers Passed Bill to Restore the Old National Anthem

In a move that has sparked widespread criticism, the Nigerian House of Representatives on Thursday passed a bill to restore the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” replacing the current anthem, “Arise O’ Compatriots.“ 

Sponsored by House Leader Hon. Julius Ihonvbere (APC, Edo), the bill swiftly advanced through first, second, and third readings.

The bill, officially titled “Bill For An Act to Provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria, and for Matters Related Thereto,” stipulates that upon its commencement, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” will become the official anthem of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

Leading the debate, Ihonvbere noted the superior qualities of the old anthem in terms of vigor, resourcefulness, and vision, which he argued are essential for the nation’s progress.

“I have taken time to look at the old anthem and the new, and as a Nigerian who has been involved in the struggle to make Nigeria a better place either as a student to the student union movement including the ‘Ali must go‘ movement or as a university teacher; having been secretary, vice chairman and chairman of ASUU or as a pro-democracy activist who spent twelve and a half years in self-exile, I believe that the old anthem encompasses, contains, and exudes the kind of energy, resourcefulness, and a sense of vision that is good for Nigeria,” Ihonvbere stated.

“The old anthem not only begins by telling us of the pride to serve our nation which is what is required right now when people are ‘Japa-ing‘ left, right, and centre. But it goes on to assert the sovereignty of our motherland,” he added.

However, the bill faced significant opposition from several lawmakers who questioned its relevance amidst Nigeria’s pressing issues. Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers) voiced his disapproval, pointing out that the country has more urgent problems that need legislative attention.

“Today we are taking ourselves back to the old National Anthem. Incidentally, I will ask again, is this bill important at this particular time in our national lives? What value will it add to us as a nation?” Chinda asked. “Nigerians are looking up to us for more fundamental issues that will cause proper change. Prof took us to history days, what is the history we are about to make? So I stand as a Nigerian to say no to this bill. I pray that we look at it critically and urge the sponsor, the House leader, to withdraw this bill.”

Hon. Ahmed Satomi (APC, Borno) also spoke against the bill, arguing that it would not address the urgent challenges of hunger, banditry, and insecurity currently ravaging the country. 

“Nigerians are looking up to us regarding this bill because many of us in our early 40s don’t know this national anthem. I don’t know how this bill on the national anthem will affect the common man,” Satomi stated. 

“Let’s be realistic about how this will help the government to stop hunger, banditry, or improve security. Let’s do what is beneficial to the common man and this Honourable chamber is the only one standing for the common man of Nigeria.”

Despite the objections, the bill passed after a voice vote, leading to a mild uproar in the House as more lawmakers voted against it. Unperturbed by the dissenting voices, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu listed the bill for consideration at the Committee of the Whole. Following the clause-by-clause consideration, the bill was listed for the third reading and passed when put to vote.

Why the sudden interest in the old national anthem?

Nigerians have been asking the above question ever since the bill was passed on Thursday, especially as it is happening when the country is grappling with severe economic hardship. They echo the sentiment of Chinda and Satomi, noting that Nigeria has more pressing issues to contend with as a nation, which require the time and effort the lawmakers have given the bill.

While it is not clear what resurrected the current interest in the old national anthem, a reference has been made to President Bola Tinubu’s past speeches. Tinubu has previously advocated for the adoption of the old national anthem over the current one.

In 2011, as the leader of one of the main opposition parties, Tinubu called for the adoption of the old anthem, highlighting his longstanding preference for it. This historical context may explain some of the current momentum behind the bill.

“Abandoning the post-independence anthem, which arguably evoked a strong spirit of patriotism and brotherliness, to compose a very drab replacement, is far less inspirational,” Tinubu was quoted as saying during a speech at the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Kuru, Jos, Plateau State.

Also, during his presidential campaign, Tinubu expressed hope to return to the old anthem. With his one-year mark in office approaching on Wednesday, some speculate that adopting the old anthem could provide a symbolic win for his administration, despite his decision to order a low-key celebration.

This is not the first time the idea has gained traction. In 2011, while leading one of the main opposition parties, Tinubu called for the old national anthem to replace the existing one. But the call for the return of the old national anthem has not always been Tinubu’s idea only. The 2014 National Conference also recommended adopting the old anthem, viewing it as a better symbol of unity, peace, and prosperity.

Background of Nigeria’s National Anthems

The old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” written by Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda, was Nigeria’s anthem at independence but was replaced in 1978 under General Olusegun Obasanjo’s regime. The current anthem, “Arise O’ Compatriots,” resulted from a national competition that sought to create an anthem reflective of Nigeria’s diverse cultures.

At the time of Nigeria’s independence in 1960, the British colonial masters viewed Nigerians as lacking the creativity to write and compose their own national anthem. Consequently, they commissioned Lillian Jean Williams to write the anthem and contracted Frances Berda to set it to music. This anthem, composed without any input from Nigerians, was imposed on the newly independent nation.

The anthem faced criticism from the start. Some felt it mocked Nigeria, while others believed it exacerbated the country’s ethnic differences rather than fostering unity. For instance, the lines “Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand” were seen as paying mere lip service to the ideal of national unity. As a result, many Nigerians reportedly sang the anthem without genuine conviction, and some refused to sing it altogether.

The situation worsened with the Nigerian Civil War, which left deep scars on the nation’s psyche. General Obasanjo, who became the head of state after the war, believed that a new, Nigerian-composed anthem, could help the country heal and move away from its colonial past. In 1978, his regime established a committee to create a new national anthem. A national competition was announced, inviting Nigerians from different tribes to contribute their writings in an effort to create a unifying anthem that represented the country’s diverse cultures.

Out of numerous entries, five were selected: P. O. Aderogba, Babatunde Ogunnaike, John Ikechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, and Sotu Omoigui. Their submissions were combined to form the new national anthem. Benedict Odiase, who was then the Director of Music in the Nigeria Police Band, composed the music for these lyrics.

The new anthem, created by Nigerians for Nigerians, aimed to instill a sense of national pride and unity was born. It’s believed to mark a significant departure from the colonial past, reflecting the country’s aspirations and identity. 

However, recent discussions about reverting to the old anthem, seemingly spurred by President Bola Tinubu’s past advocacy and the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference, have reignited debates about national symbols and their role in fostering unity and addressing contemporary challenges.

Many note that the debate over the national anthem is not merely about the lyrics and melody but touches on deeper issues of national identity, patriotism, and historical legacy. Proponents of the old anthem argue that it evokes a stronger sense of pride and unity, essential for nation-building. Ihonvbere’s argument that the old anthem embodies a vision and energy that the new one lacks resonates with people who feel a nostalgic connection to Nigeria’s post-independence era.

Opponents, however, view the debate as a distraction from more pressing national concerns. With Nigeria facing significant socio-economic challenges, some lawmakers and a large section of Nigeria believe that legislative efforts should focus on addressing these issues rather than revisiting historical symbols.

The Role of National Symbols

National symbols like anthems, flags, and emblems play a crucial role in fostering national identity and unity. They are often seen as embodiments of a nation’s values, history, and aspirations. Thus, critics note that changing a national anthem can be a deeply symbolic act, reflecting shifts in national sentiment and priorities.

For many Nigerians, “Arise O’ Compatriots” represent a call to action and collective responsibility, fitting for a country striving to overcome various challenges. The anthem’s message of unity and service to the nation is said to resonate with contemporary efforts to build a more inclusive and resilient Nigeria.

However, critics argue that the focus on changing the national anthem diverts attention from critical issues such as economic recovery, security, and governance reforms. They urge lawmakers to prioritize policies and legislation that directly impact the well-being of the citizens.