Nigeria Adopts Controversial New National Anthem Amidst Criticism

Nigeria has officially adopted a new national anthem, replacing the version used since 1978. The move has sparked widespread criticism due to its hasty implementation and lack of public consultation.

Nigeria has adopted a new national anthem, replacing the one that had been in use since 1978. The change was approved by both chambers of the National Assembly, which is dominated by the governing party, and was quickly signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.

The new anthem, titled "Nigeria We Hail Thee," was first introduced in 1960 when Nigeria gained independence from Britain. It was written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate who was living in Nigeria at the time, and was dropped by the military in 1978.

The "Arise, O Compatriots" anthem that is being replaced was composed during a time of political upheaval in Nigeria, following the country's deadly civil war. It called on Nigerians to "serve our fatherland with love and strength" and to "not let the labor of our heroes past (be) in vain."

The new anthem, in contrast, does not have a military focus and instead emphasizes the country's unity, diversity, and potential. It includes lines such as "We're bound by fate to be great" and "With hope in our hearts and strength in our hands."

The change in the national anthem has been met with mixed reactions from Nigerians. Some have welcomed the return to the original anthem, arguing that it better reflects the country's spirit. Others have criticized the process by which the change was made, saying that it was rushed through without proper consultation with the public.

"The law shows that the country's political class doesn't care about the public interest," said Oby Ezekwesili, a former education minister and presidential aspirant.

Supporters of the new anthem, however, argue that it is time for the country to move away from the military-era anthem.

"Anthems are ideological recitations that help the people to be more focused," said Frank Tietie, a public affairs analyst. "It was a very sad development for the military to have changed the anthem."

The new anthem was played publicly for the first time at a legislative session attended by President Tinubu. It will now be used at all official events and ceremonies.

The adoption of the new national anthem is part of a broader effort by the Tinubu government to reshape Nigeria's national identity. The government has also introduced a new currency and is planning to rename the country's capital city.

These changes have been met with some resistance, but the government has defended them as necessary for the country to move forward.