Nigeria has ignited a storm of controversy as it announces a change to its national anthem, triggering widespread outrage among citizens.
On Wednesday 29 May 2024, president Bola Tinubu officially enacted legislation to reinstate Nigeria’s former national anthem, a historical melody discarded during a past military regime in 1978.
Speaking on his first anniversary in office, president Tinubu said the anthem symbolized Nigeria’s diversity.
The anthem, reinforced with the opening line “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” was penned by Lilian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances Berda, marking a return to a cherished piece of the nation’s musical heritage.
However, many Nigerians on X have questioned the president’s decision amidst the cost of living crisis.
“A new national anthem is the priority for Tinubu.”
“When our people can’t eat, insecurity is high and life is hell? What a solid joke!”
“Changing the Nigerian national anthem written by Nigerian, to the song written by colonizers is a stupid decision, and it’s shameful that nobody in the national assembly thought to stand against it.”
Former Nigeria president, Bashir Ahmad shared his perspective on the ongoing social media discussions surrounding the national anthem debate.
He raised an interesting point, noting that following the anthem change, some individuals are advocating for further alterations, including the renaming of Nigeria and the national flag.
Ahmad posed thought-provoking questions to his audience: “Should we retain the name Nigeria?”
