Why I Reintroduced Old National Anthem — Tinubu Breaks Silence

Why I Reintroduced Old National Anthem — Tinubu Breaks Silence

President Bola Tinubu recently addressed criticisms regarding his administration’s choice to return to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” 

During a meeting with the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu expressed the importance of reinstating the former anthem as a top priority for his government.

Recall that On May 29, President Tinubu signed the National Anthem Bill into law, effectively replacing the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”

This decision has elicited varied reactions from the public, with some deeming it a “misplaced priority” given the country’s myriad challenges.

In defending his stance, President Tinubu underscored his alignment with the lawmakers’ intent to revert to the original anthem.

He also stressed the significance of adhering to the legislative process and upholding the rule of law.

“Let me allude to something that happened yesterday. The change of national anthem, ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’,” Tinubu said.

“Some people say, ‘Is that your priority?’ It’s my priority. I agree with the National Assembly. If they make law, I’ve got to obey that law, or we disagree openly and close the chapter.”

Addressing concerns regarding national identity and diversity, President Tinubu drew a comparison to the country’s name, which was originally assigned by colonial powers.

“But the question of diversity. Who gave us the name Nigeria? Is it not Britain? Or somewhere? Have we changed our name? We are Nigerians. Our passport shows that,” he remarked.