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  • Nigeria @ 64: National anthem as heritage of national unity

    Nigeria @ 64: National anthem as heritage of national unity

    By Patricia Adenike Balogun

    The day I learnt that Nigerians had returned to singing “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as its National Anthem instead of “Arise, O Compatriots” was one of my favourite moments as a Nigerian.

    During my formative years, I recall reciting the National Anthem (“Nigeria, We Hail Thee”) at school assemblies until it was modified in 1978. Although I didn’t fully comprehend its meaning or intent at the time, the composition and wordings resonated with me in unanticipated ways. In 1978, Nigeria chose “Arise, O Compatriots” as its new national song, and society continued onwards.

    The reintroduction of the ancient hymn “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” on May 29 after President Bola Tinubu signed into law a motion passed by the National Assembly was a joyful déjà vu. I’ve sung the song to myself several times, declaring its words as a prayer for Nigeria long before it was readopted.

    With enthusiasm, I looked up the Nigerian Independence Day anthem.

    Nigeria, we hail thee, our own dear native land,

    Though tribes and tongues may differ, in brotherhood we stand

    Nigerians all, and proud to serve our sovereign Motherland.

    Our flag shall be a symbol that truth and justice reign,

    In peace or battle honoured, and this we count as gain,

    To hand on to our children a banner without stain.

    O God of all creation, grant this our one request:

    Help us to build a nation where no man is oppressed,

    And so with peace and plenty Nigerians may be blessed.

     According to Wikipedia’s definition, the National Anthem serves as a reminder of the country’s rich heritage and splendour, as well as an expression of its people’s patriotism and pride.

    Here is my perspective summarising Nigeria’s National Anthem.

    History: “Nigeria, we hail thee, our own dear native land” highlights Nigeria’s rich historical heritage, from before colonial times with powerful empires such as the Benin Kingdom, Oyo Empire and Kanem-Bornu Empire, to the era of colonisation under British administration. It represents our struggle for self-determination, which resulted in the emergence of an independent country free of colonialism.

    Culture: “Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand” emphasises Nigeria’s own cultural identity, whereby diversity is valued. Nigeria has about 250 ethnic groups, each with its own language, traditions, and customs. The anthem’s reference to “tribes and tongues” refers to our diverse society, wherein the integration of many cultures strengthens our country’s social framework.

    Religion: “O God of all creation, grant this our one request” means that Nigeria is an extremely religious nation, with Islam, Christianity, and traditional African religions all significantly contributing to the country’s identity. Nigeria’s vibrant spiritual base is recognised in the anthem, which acknowledges God as the Creator. The influence of religion is apparent in every aspect of Nigerian life, including politics and daily interactions. The anthem’s appeal to divine guidance demonstrates the unifying power of religious faith among Nigerians, despite the country’s division into Muslim-majority North, Christian-majority South, and indigenous beliefs. This encourages Nigerians to seek divine support in our collective national journey, as the anthem carefully portrays religion as one of our binding forces.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s economy poised for growth through agro-industrial development – Edun

    Patriotism: “Help us to build a nation where no man is oppressed” is the section in which the anthem expresses our aspiration for a society that values freedom, justice, and equal opportunity for every citizen. This is a call to action for justice, equality, and an end to all injustices.

    Unity and National Identity: “And so with peace and plenty, Nigeria may be blessed.” Despite our struggles, our national identity is anchored in our desire for togetherness and growth. The National Anthem asks for unity among our people and echoes the idea of Nigeria as a light of hope and promise in Africa. Our National Anthem encapsulates the optimism and faith in Nigeria’s future, which can be translated into national prosperity through our abundant natural resources, human capital, and resilience. The vision of unity is indicative of our nation’s ongoing efforts to achieve progress and unity in the face of economic, political, and ethnic challenges.

    The complex nature of Nigeria as a country, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and values, is exemplified by the now-former anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots, Nigeria’s call obey.” The people of Nigeria remain steadfast in their patriotism and optimism for a brighter future. It serves as a reminder that Nigeria’s history has been influenced by hard efforts for unity, sovereignty, and growth. It recognises the historical sacrifices made by our freedom struggle leaders, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, and Obafemi Awolowo, who advocated for Nigeria’s independence and growth. It also demonstrates Nigerians’ deeply religious character, as we seek divine guidance in our daily affairs and national aspirations.

    Readopting the anthem “Nigeria, we hail thee, Our own dear native land” demonstrates Nigerians’ deep bond with their country. The themes of togetherness, peace, fraternity, and service, with a prayerful ending, are critical components of reforming values and culture among people in our social, economic, and political environments. The concluding spiritual anthem represented the many religious beliefs of Nigerians, regardless of their ethnicity. Nigeria is a religiously diverse country, as seen by the anthem’s respectful tone towards all Nigerians. It expresses the concept of unity in variety, with the notion that, despite variations in ethnicity, language, and culture, we Nigerians value our nation and stand together in brotherhood.

    Despite the challenges presented by our complex diversity, we are filled with hope for unity and progress. Each ethnic group—whether it is the Yoruba’s rich cultural heritage, the Igbo’s artistry, the Hausa-Fulani’s agricultural roots, or the traditions of the minority groups—adds to the fabric of Nigerian culture. In this time of economic crisis and social instability, our anthem’s words, “Help us to build a nation where no man is oppressed,” convey a strong sense of belief in justice and equality, a cry for fairness and inclusion that is much needed in Nigeria today.

    As a religiously diverse nation, declaring our spiritual National Anthem on each day would assist in fostering hope for prosperity, peace, and unity in Nigeria, a virtue valued at this time of economic hardship and insecurity. The richness of our diversity is depicted through the lens of our national song “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” as does our unified yearning for national unity and prosperity. Our national song celebrates our dynamic history, deep cultural roots, religious variety, and unwavering patriotism of our people. We value our diversity while calling for unity, justice, and a future in which Nigeria flourishes on its strengths to build a peaceful and prosperous nation for everyone.

    As we commemorate Nigeria’s 64th year of Independence, citizen reorientation and positive engagement are critical in our efforts to achieve our potential as a great and powerful country in the world. We must work together in unity and peace to make Nigeria’s future brighter for all citizens and future generations.

    •Balogun sent this piece from the UK.

  • Return of the old National Anthem

    Return of the old National Anthem

    Sir: National anthems are more than mere songs; they encapsulate a nation’s history, values, and aspirations. In Nigeria, a country rich in cultural diversity but often divided along ethnic and religious lines, the national anthem serves as a poignant reminder of unity and collective identity. The reintroduction of Nigeria’s old national anthem goes beyond having symbolic value but has the potential to foster national cohesion and patriotism.

    National anthems play a significant role in nation-building. They are a form of affirmation, akin to a national prayer, that can inspire citizens and remind them of their shared heritage and common goals. The old Nigerian anthem, with its powerful lyrics, speaks directly to the values of unity, justice, and peace, which are crucial for the nation’s progress. It has the potential to strengthen national solidarity and inspire a renewed commitment to Nigeria’s development and prosperity.

    Each stanza of this anthem carries a message that resonates deeply with the ideals necessary for national unity. Stanza 1 emphasizes unity in diversity, reminding Nigerians that despite ethnic and linguistic differences, they stand together in brotherhood. Stanza 2 highlights the national flag as a symbol of truth and justice, values that should guide the nation and be passed on to future generations. Stanza 3 is a prayer for divine assistance in building a just and peaceful nation where no one is oppressed, ensuring prosperity and blessings for all.

    Read Also: Rejoinder to New York Time’s jaundiced report on Nigeria’s current economic situation by Onanuga

    While some critics argue that reintroducing the old anthem is a misplaced priority, it is essential to recognize the broader context of this move. Reinvigorating national symbols can be a step towards addressing deeper issues of national identity and unity. However, for this initiative to be effective, it must be accompanied by genuine governmental actions that demonstrate a commitment to equity and fairness.

    The government must address public grievances and ensure that policies are not just rhetoric but are implemented with transparency and accountability. Nepotism and favouritism should be actively discouraged to foster a sense of trust and inclusion among all Nigerians. By aligning the ideals expressed in the national anthem with tangible actions, the government can reinforce the message of unity and justice.

    The re-introduction of Nigeria’s old national anthem is a powerful tool for national unity and patriotism. It serves as a reminder of the country’s rich history and the values that can guide it towards a brighter future. For this initiative to succeed, it must be part of a broader strategy that includes genuine governmental commitment to equity, fairness, and addressing the grievances of all Nigerians. Through this holistic approach, Nigeria can build a nation where unity in diversity is not just an ideal but a lived reality.

    •Kenechukwu Aguolu, Abuja.

  • Reflections on the new National Anthem as patriotism and hope renewed

    Reflections on the new National Anthem as patriotism and hope renewed

    The recent policy decision by the Tinubu administration to revert to Nigeria’s old national anthem has generated lots of furors on social media and in the public space. And this is for obvious reason. Many Nigerians are wondering as to the appropriateness of such a decision at a time when the governance indices are all seemingly on the downward spiral. The questions being asked include: why is this policy necessary now? What does it add to the urgency of articulating good governance policies around inclusive growth and sustainable development that can positively affect the lives of Nigerians? Even if we are to change the national anthem, why adopt one with colonial burdens?

    I agree that these are genuine concerns. No one can fault majority of Nigerians eagerly awaiting the dividends of democratic governance. And the Tinubu administration has set itself up as the harbinger of renewed hope that most Nigerians expect to have started yielding tangibles. And within the curves of this expectations, changing the national anthem is the least of the least of what Nigerians want to be saddled with. And the rate at which the new policy about an old issue degenerated into the butt of jokes and memes on social media seem like an indication of how many Nigerians thumped the nose of government for such an ‘inconsiderate’ policy. However, derisive comments by the citizens do not always come close to aggregating the best reactions to government decisions. We need do more to be able to situate one policy against the others in the grand architecture of what governance entails.  

    Nation-building is not a business that can be conducted with peripheral analysis. Or with social media mudslinging. It is a very serious business that demands both the government and citizens to explore intricate and nuanced implications and consequences of considered policy choices. And there is, as usual, no one single story as to what could or should have been done within the general architecture of governance policies. Governance is a complex business and the government of the day has to juggle so many seemingly contradictory policies that needed to be attended to even if the citizens do not think so. And many of us, as citizens, are only open to the outcomes of policies without a deep understanding of what goes on behind the curtain. This is the way all governments work, even the most transparent of them all. I take two issues to be crucial to democratic government: trust and transparency. Due to its representative nature, democratic government must necessarily be about trust. Citizens elected their leaders with a modicum of trust, especially with regard to certain policy choices. But then the government also owe the citizens a level of transparency that must often draw the latter into the policy design process.

    This brings us to the national anthem issue. Part of that nuanced analysis is that government everywhere need symbolic gestures and policies that might not immediately have any relation to the tangible matter of economics and development. And such policies also require that the citizens trust the government. The key issue about governance is simply that government cannot always be unilinear in its focus. While the fate of most nations is determined by economic policies and decisions, such policies are not mutually excluded from being side-by-side with non-economic intangible policies—like changing the national anthem. It might seem inconsiderate at this time to introduce this legislation, but it does not seem so if government needs an arsenal of ideological weapons around which to ground its developmental progress. And the national anthem is one such potent template for focusing the patriotic energy of the citizens.

    The second issue for me is what the government has the capacity to make of whatever it has inherited. In this sense, I see the old national anthem the same way I see the civil service institution and the English language, Nigeria’s lingua franca. These are all colonial inheritances. The discourses about the civil service structures and the English language still rage on in public administration and African cultural studies. And yet, we have made some national senses of these two structures. My point is that the old national anthem is equally a colonial inheritance that could be fashioned to suit our national ideological design. It was rejected by the Obasanjo administration in 1978 in the fervor of nationalism immediately after independence, and not for any other reason. And so, the fact that it originated from the British is a weak argument against its readoption. If the old anthem captures our national longing better than the current one, nothing stops us from re-adopting it.

    This argument therefore demands a serious philosophical analysis of the content of the old anthem. From the analyses that I have read so far, two items seem offensive to many—“Our own dear native land” and “Though tribes and tongues may differ.” The first two have been considered to possess the racist connotation that justified Britain’s colonial enterprise. I agree that given the provenance of the song, the term “native” would evoke the unsalutary connotation it accrued through colonialism. However, “native” has a simple lexical sense; that which belongs to a particular place by birth. And that is what we want to make Nigeria, a place where we all can call ours—a country we collectively built by dint of civic loyalty and unstinting patriotism despite all odds. The word “tribe” suffers the same racist connotation, unfortunately. But over time, we all use this word freely and have adapted it to our sense of ethnic identity. Both “tribe” and “native” have both been re-semanticized in ways that ought to dissuade us from the angst about colonial tutelage or overlordship. We can even further argue that the reference to “Our sovereign Motherland” and “In brotherhood we stand” constitutes a subtle lexical canceling out of any gender derogation that anyone might read into the old anthem. But even making this argument should not blind us to the lexical fact that both “brotherhood” and “motherland” are used to shorn off their gender connotations.  

    Read Also: Ex-Ondo lawmaker hails Tinubu over national anthem, handling of wage strike

    Outside of these two words, and the fixation on colonial burdens in our national affairs, the old anthem, like the current, is a fine piece of national projection. I even make bold to argue that the re-adoption of the old one portends a subversion. Scholars like Prof. Biodun Jeyifo have argued that English is now an African language (and demonstrated by Chinua Achebe), and I among public administration scholars have joined others in the long discourse over the reform of the colonial civil service system. This is the same subversive way the old national anthem can also be made ours through a deconstructed piece of national ownership that enable us to align the values and imageries embedded within the anthem to our understanding and aspirations about who we are as a people.

    Given the Tinubu administration’s drive to transform the Nigerian situation, grounding that renewed hope agenda on a national anthem that many excoriate for being a colonial fabrication would be a governance and symbolic coup of the century for Nigeria. That will be one way of saying we can reinvent ourselves as a people even through the structures and institutions that were meant to subjugate us. It further implies that we are by ourselves owning and molding our destiny in our own unique way by insisting that colonialism can no longer be blamed for what is wrong with us. 

    Overall, a dispassionate analysis demonstrates that this old anthem possesses an aspirational sense that could rally Nigerians towards the understanding of our collective identity as Nigerians. Taken holistically, and outside the anxiety about self-flagellation, the anthem possesses all the key lexical items that could carry the burden of valuating our collective desire to build one nation that would no longer be saddled with the albatross of colonialism and underdevelopment. While the current anthem is a call to action and a prayer, the old one is both an aspiration and a prayer. The first two verses speak to values and visions of what a great nation Nigeria can turn out to be if we dare to renew the hope that Nigeria’s founding nationalists had at independence. We hail a nation that is still a work in progress; a projection of unity in diversity. We hail a nation whose cornerstones would be truth and justice. We hail a nation where the politicians would develop generational proactiveness that govern with future generations in mind.  

    If there was once a country as Chinua Achebe lamented in his last lamentation of that same title, then there can still be one that we all can agree to build together—a nation where, with the concerted efforts of the government and the governed, “no man is oppressed/And so with peace and plenty/Nigeria may be blessed.” Whether we retain the current anthem or re-adopt the old one, the issue of colonialism should no longer feature in our collective will to make of Nigeria what we all together have patriotically decided to. We can make of Nigeria something all of us and posterity can be proud of.        

  • Fed Govt releases approved lyrics for reintroduced National Anthem

    Fed Govt releases approved lyrics for reintroduced National Anthem

    Through the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the Federal Government yesterday unveiled the approved version of the reintroduced national anthem.

    The agency asked Nigerians to pay attention to the words in lines three and five of the recalled national anthem.

    President Bola Tinubu signed into law the bill to revert to the old national anthem during his visit to the National Assembly on May 29.

    NOA’s Director-General Lanre Issa-Onilu, who unveiled the standardised version of the anthem in Abuja, explained that his action was to guarantee consistency in the lyrics.

    He said: “Today’s event is to present the official version which will clear all doubts about the correct lyrics as contained in the Act signed by the President.

    “We call the attention of Nigerians to line three of the first stanza, which reads: Though tribes and tongues may differ. Note that the words ‘tribes’ and ‘tongues’ are in plural. We want you to also note that line five of the first stanza reads: “Nigerians all, are proud to serve”. The word “are”, not “and” is correct.”

    According to him, the agency will soon call for entries for production of an authentic Nigerian melody for the anthem.

    He said: “On the official instrumental and audio rendition, the NOA will call for entries for the production of an authentic Nigerian melody, taking into cognisance, the indigenous instrumentation of the Nigerian people.

    “The effective date for the entries and the procedure will be announced through NOA channels in the coming week.”

    Read Also: As old national anthem returns

    The NOA boss also said that from next week Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be deployed in disseminating the anthem in different local languages.

    He said AI will be deployed in rendering the anthem in local languages.

    Isa-Onilu said:” By next week we are going to launch our AI chat room. It will automatically render in whatever language you want. So, on your own, you can request for it to be sung in your own language and you will get it.

    Regarding questions about national prayer, Issa-Onilu said: “The NOA will follow the official procedure to obtain approval for the adoption of a new National Prayer.”

    On those who said they will not sing the new anthem, Issa-Onilu was positive that they will sing it.

    He said: “I saw people who overreacted and reacted too early. Trust me, they will sing it. The National Anthem is part of the National Identity project of the Tinubu administration, being one of the seven programmes for the institutionalisation of our national values.

    “The Anthem is one of the country’s national symbols, which NOA as custodian, is mandated to promote and preserve its integrity for national cohesion, unity and a sense of patriotism.”

    Shortly after it was signed to law, one-time minister Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili and others vowed not sing the reintroduced old national anthem.

    Isa-Onilu also dismissed reports that the federal government has allocated over N800 billion for the for the new national anthem campaign.

    He said: “Let me say that we must be careful of what we see on social media. Even the person that is writing it does not believe it, he is just pranking it as being part of ‘Gen Z’ culture.

    “Let me say that the only agency that has the mandate to do what we are doing is the NOA and that is why we have a humongous infrastructure to be able to reach everywhere.

    “I can assure you that as I speak to you, the Federal Government has not spent one naira or allocated one naira to this… not at all. As I speak, one naira has not been allocated or spent by the federal government for this.

    “What we are doing so far as NOA, is to rely on our structure. We work on a daily basis without the national anthem and we do the best that we can. So we have not got that money and no allocation of N800 not to talk of N800 billion in this economy.”

    “NOA will be working with a wide spectrum of stakeholders to ensure citizens’ buy-in of the National Anthem and sing it reflectively with a sense of pride.”

    The leadership of the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) also pledged their support towards cascading the new anthem down to the grassroots.

  • As old national anthem returns

    As old national anthem returns

    Nigeria we hail thee

    Our own dear native land

    Though tongue and tribe may differ

    In brotherhood we stand.

    Nigerians all are proud to serve

    A sovereign mother land

    This is the first stanza of the old Nigerian national anthem composed by a certain Jean Lillian Williams, a Briton then living and working in Nigeria. This served as our national anthem from 1960 to 1978 when it was replaced with a new anthem. At the time of independence when the competition to write a national anthem was thrown open, the number of people with the capacity to compose a worthy anthem in English was severely limited so it was relatively easy for the English woman to run away with the prize. Secondly, a more radical government ought to have known that the nationality of the writer would in future pose considerable problems to a nationalistic generation. The British left Nigeria as Brian Sherwood Smith, the departing governor of northern Nigeria “always as friends”. The federal government headed by sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa had no reason to be sensitive about the British nativity of the composer of our national anthem after all, he felt the country was a “British intention and creation”. In the excitement and euphoria of independence, very few people apart from a few of our intelligentsia paid much attention to it.

    The structural deficiency of our country began to manifest as from 1962 when because of political problems, the carefully constructed federal political architecture of the country began to fray at the margins. This awareness became physically manifest when the military overthrew the civilian government of Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa which eventually led to massive killings of Ibos in the North in retaliation against Ibo military officers who were accused of targeting northern and western Nigerian officers in the military coup d’état of 1966 which had led to a counter coup by Northern officers in July 1966.

    The bitterly fought civil war between 1967 and 1970 led to much soul-searching and question for a new political beginning. The rehabilitation and reconstruction that followed the civil war led to creation of new states, fashioning out a new constitution and adopting a new national anthem on the eve of the military departure under General Olusegun Obasanjo from the political scene. The military regime of General Murtala Muhammed which came into office in 1975 rode on the wave of nationalism at home and abroad. It tried to clean the Augean stables of bureaucratic and political corruption at home and champion the cause of liberation and nationalism on the African continent and break away from subservience to western particularly British and American influence. This was noticeable in widespread retirements of top civil servants and financial support for liberation movements in Southern Africa and in Guinea-Bissau. It was part of this militant nationalism, at least in appearance, that made the Obasanjo regime change the national anthem in 1978.

    A committee of bureaucrats and university professors of English was set up to draft a new anthem. I remember a friend of mine, Kola Ogungbesan then teaching at Ahmadu Bello University, was one of them. The first stanza of the anthem is:

    Arise o compatriots

    Nigeria’s call obey

    To serve our fatherland

    With love, strength and faith

    The labour of our heroes past

    Shall never be in vain

    To serve with might and strength

    One nation bound in freedom peace and unity.

    I read somewhere that the command tone of the anthem smacks of militarism and that this was one of the reasons for jettisoning it. This is not a cogent reason because most anthems all over the world have some element of commanding the citizens to rise and do something. An example is the French national anthem which was fashioned in battle by those citizens who were marching to defend the young republic in 1789 from reactionary forces and their foreign supporters. The French national anthem La Marseillaise says:

    Allons enfants de la Patrie

    Le jour de la gloire est arrive

    Contre Nous de la tyrranie

    Letandard sanglant

    Etandezvous dans les campagnes, etc

    Meaning – Let’s go children of the fatherland; the day of glory has arrived to confront the forces of tyranny against us in our country.

    One of course can say we did not have that kind of reactionary forces arrayed against us but certainly during the civil war, Portugal, South Africa, Rhodesia, France and America had no interest in our national unity and survival as a country. In other words, I do not see any point saying the anthem of 1978 had a commanding military tone. The American national anthem celebrates the fact that their star-spangled flag still waves on the land of the free and the home of the brave.  The German national anthem is about “Deutschland Deutschland uber Alles” meaning their country before all others which is a call to defend Germany, a call which Adolf Hitler abused from 1939 to 1945. Patrioticheskaya pensya, the Russian national anthem has undergone metamorphosis with the change in Russian history from the USSR to now Russian federation, but the core has remained the same. It celebrates Russia’s huge size from the Arctic to the Caucasus and from Europe to the Japanese Sea and calls on its citizens to take pride in its glory and defend its integrity and primacy in the world. The Chinese national anthem “the March of the volunteers” harps on the mass revolt against Japanese occupation and the successor nationalist Chinese government propped up by the West which was eventually defeated and expelled to Taiwan.

    In other words, a country’s national anthem should reflect the experience and history of a country at a critical time particularly a decisive moment. It is in the nature of any serious nation to call to arms its citizens to be prepared in case it becomes necessary to defend it.

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    So our government in 1978 was following a well laid precedence in getting the old anthem jettisoned for a marching order in a world inhabited by sharks that were not particularly friendly and in a world where to be black meant less rights but most humiliating in our continent still then dominated by forces of colonialism, settlerism and apartheid.

    Now what has changed? Are we freer than what we were in 1978? Certainly not. We have seen our economy collapse under the jackboot of neo colonialism and our people barely surviving under rampant corruption and mismanagement and youth unemployment leading to breakdown of security. Can we seriously call our change of anthem the most pressing issue confronting us? It will be interesting to interrogate the genesis of the move to change the anthem. Should we not be facing the issue of over centralisation if we are really serious about demilitarisation of the polity? It seems most Nigerians now believe that the country is in a state of inertia because of our over concentration of power at the centre. This has destroyed healthy economic development rooted in cooperative federalism.

    Thank God it also seems we are now agreed on state and possibly local police as antidote to the bushfire of kidnapping and highway brigandage and urban robbery and thievery. These are the areas our legislature should focus on instead of the puerile changing of the national anthem which very few people care to sing even at football matches. What is very curious is that since 1979, to 1983, 1999 to 2023, we did not think about changing the anthem until now. Of course it can be argued that this long democratic period since 1999 was only democratic between the regimes of Umaru Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan from 2007 to 20015 while the Obasanjo and Buhari’s administration s were part of the military regime that began in1983 interspersed by the civilian administrations of Yar’Adua and Jonathan. If this argument is accepted, then we must expect further unravelling of the military constitution imposed on Nigeria by Abdul Salami Abubakar in 1999.

  • BREAKING: FG releases approved lyrics of reinstated National Anthem

    BREAKING: FG releases approved lyrics of reinstated National Anthem

    The National Orientation Agency on Wednesday, June 5, unveiled the approved version of the reintroduced national anthem.

    The agency also explicitly asked Nigerians to pay attention to the words in lines three and five of the national anthem that was reintroduced.

    The Nation reported that on May 29 President Bola Tinubu signed into law the bill to revert to the old national anthem.

    Lanre Issa-Onilu, the Director-General of the NOA, unveiled the standardized version of the anthem on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Read Also: New National Anthem captures whole essence of our being, says NUJ President

    He explained that the goal of the exercise was to guarantee that the lyrics remain consistent.

    He said: “Today’s event is to present the official version which will clear all doubts about the correct lyrics as contained in the Act signed by the President.

    “We call the attention of Nigerians to line three of the first stanza, which reads: Though tribes and tongues may differ. Note that the words “tribes” and “tongues” are in plural. We want you to also note that line five of the first stanza reads: Nigerians all, are proud to serve”. The word ”are”, not ”and” is correct.”

    Details shortly…

  • New National Anthem captures whole essence of our being, says NUJ President

    New National Anthem captures whole essence of our being, says NUJ President

    The President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Dr Chris Iziguzo has that the now new anthem captures the whole core of being Nigerians.

    Isiguzo made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

    “Look at Nigeria, we have different languages and tribes. This anthem unite us better regardless of our differences.

    “The new anthem of ‘Nigeria we hail thee’ says a lot about us as one country with one destiny.

    “However, I think the first thing they would have done was to put the old and new on the table side by side and review it.

    “If in the wisdom of the president and members of the National Assembly, we should revert to the old anthem, why not.

    “After all, it highlights the fact that we have different tribes and tongues in one nation and yet we still exist as one. So be it,” Isiguzo stressed.

    NAN reports that President Bola Tinubu Tinubu signed the National Anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” Bill 2024 into law on May 29.

    The return of the old anthem elicited divergent views, with some commentators criticising the move as yet another case of “misplaced priority” given the slew of challenges confronting Nigerians.

     Tinubu said that returning the old national anthem was a priority for him.

    Tinubu made this known during a meeting on Thursday with the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) at the presidential villa in Abuja.

    Read Also: On the reversion to the old national anthem

    Tinubu said Nigeria’s diversity should be protected and celebrated, adding that the country’s population should not be seen as a burden.

    “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 said.

    “As long as we are Nigerians and one family, we remain and protect our diversity and love one another as brothers and sisters.

    “It is God Almighty that puts you in that particular place and makes you a member of that family. You have no control over it,” Tinubu said.

    (NAN)

  • On the reversion to the old national anthem

    On the reversion to the old national anthem

    SIR: The recently discarded anthem was a costly assumption that the defeat of Biafra eight years earlier meant the birth of a nation; hence the call for compatriots to “arise” and “obey”. Even a simpleton’s reading of the two stanzas would reveal an unintelligent attempt to feign ignorance of our fault lines and preference of the assumption that Nigeria had truly become a nation. On the contrary, the NIGERIA WE HAIL THEE anthem proudly admits that we are diverse and distinctive nations willing to forge an alliance that would birth a stronger nation by means of evolution.

    For 45 years, Nigeria elected, true to type, to live a lie. For 45 years, we chased shadows and sought to build castles in the sky. For 45 years, we shamelessly played the ostrich. For 45 years, we wore the wrong badge, a fraudulent identity and for 45 years, we deferred the commencement of the long journey to nationhood by claiming that we were a nation already – and I have never seen a nation built on the ashes of fiction!

    Rather than tasking our rulers to become leaders and quickly proceed to build on this historic anthem reversion with a view to decapitating the centrifugal forces in the land and artfully welding the different peoples and cultures into a nation properly so-called, the mob had since distorted the essence and manipulated public opinion to ridicule an otherwise commendable bold step.

    One thing that runs through the entire gamut of the raft of criticisms that has attended the anthem reversion, apart from their indisputable root in emotion and sentiment, is the unnecessary reductionist interpretation of it as lacking in any meaningful economic impact. This is most unfortunate. The major reason our economy has consistently grown from bad to worse is the very fact that Nigeria has been an orphan right from birth, a people in dispute and a society enmeshed in identity crisis. And it is the perennial failure of our rulers over the years to tackle this identity question that has almost turned Nigeria into the Corruption Tourism capital of the world! 

    Read Also: Ozekhome commends Tinubu, N/Assembly on readoption of old national anthem

    It is for the same “identity crisis” reason that religion and ethnicity have always been the major determinants of not only who rules Nigeria but who the ruler puts in charge of the economy; which, of course, inexorably leaves the economy vulnerable and national productivity imperilled. Worse still, it turns our commonwealth into a feast for vultures. But the mob wouldn’t see the glaring nexus between Nigeria being a country of nations and the truism that one can only force the horse to the stream but cannot force it to drink water.

    For me, what the government has done with the anthem reversion law is to set the tone for a broader conversation around the being of the Nigerian nation-state, the imperative of attaining a voluntary union, true integration and, ultimately, the founding of a nation properly so-called. And the least it deserves, on this score, is a pat on the back. However, it’s also thumbs-down to both the parliament and the executive for failing in elementary civic engagement. Ordinarily, such a remarkably bold law should have called for proactive steps to amass public buy-in and drown possible opposition whispers of objection.

    Sadly, this is what obtains in a society where intellectuals and thinkers take regular turns to go on sabbaticals. And I’m afraid, the tyranny of the mob might rob us of this great opportunity to give the ship of state a soul and redeem the future. Better late than never!

    • Chuks Akamadu Abuja.
  • I won’t sing new national anthem, says ex-minister Ezekwesili

    I won’t sing new national anthem, says ex-minister Ezekwesili

    A former minister of education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has declared that she would not sing the reinstated old national anthem, ‘Nigeria, We Hail thee.’

    President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, May 29, assented to the National Anthem bill after being passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives.

    However, Ezekwesili, in a post on her X page on Wednesday frowned at the reintroduction of the old national anthem.

    She said that no one could stifle her freedom to disagree with what she called an “obnoxious law” and ‘disgusting’ to any decent person in Nigeria.

    Ezekwesili said: “Let it be known to all and sundry that I, Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili, will, whenever asked to sing the Nigerian National Anthem, sing:

    “1. 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

    Read Also: National Anthem will restore Nigeria’s lost glory – Reps deputy spokesperson

    “One nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.”

    She added the second stanza, “2. Oh God of creation, direct our noble cause

    “Guide our leader’s right

    “Help our youth the truth to know

    “In love and honesty to grow

    “And living just and true

    “Great lofty heights attain

    “To build a nation where peace and justice reign.”

  • National Anthem will restore Nigeria’s lost glory – Reps deputy spokesperson

    National Anthem will restore Nigeria’s lost glory – Reps deputy spokesperson

    The deputy spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon Philip Agbese (APC, Benue), said on Wednesday, May 29, that the return of the country to the old national anthem is a pathway to its golden era.

    Speaking to newsmen after the president visited the National Assembly, Hon. Agbese praised the President for his swift action on legislative matters and the Speaker of the House for his outstanding leadership and dedication to democratic governance.

    The Benue lawmaker said President Tinubu has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to signing bills into law in record time, showcasing his administration’s responsiveness to the needs of citizens, adding that the signing of the National Anthem and Student Loan Bills into law is a testament to President Tinubu’s willingness to engage with the legislature and drive meaningful change.

    He said the prompt attention of the President to these bills has sent a clear message that his administration is focused on delivering tangible results, not just promises.

    He said: “President Tinubu’s approach to legislative matters has fostered a collaborative environment, encouraging open dialogue and constructive engagement between the executive and legislative arms of government.”

    “This synergy has yielded significant benefits, including the swift passage and signing of crucial bills that address pressing national issues. As a parliamentarian, I have witnessed firsthand the President’s commitment to democratic principles and his willingness to listen to diverse perspectives.

    “His door has always been open to constructive feedback and suggestions, demonstrating a genuine desire to serve the best interests of our nation.

    “The signing of the National Anthem and Student Loan Bills into law, which took less than 48 hours, is a testament to President Tinubu’s willingness to engage with the legislature and drive meaningful change.

    “I’m particularly thrilled with the return to our old national anthem as a major step towards the country’s return to glory days. This was an era of prosperity; when the economy worked, infrastructure was in top shape, agriculture was still the in thing and our educational system was among the best.

    “This anthem, with its familiar lyrics and stirring melody, evokes a sense of nostalgia and patriotism in the hearts of many Nigerians. It reminds us of our history, our struggles, and our triumphs. Its return is a welcome move that resonates with citizens from all walks of life.

    “The old national anthem is more than just a song; it’s a symbol of our shared values and aspirations. Its lyrics speak to our collective desire for unity, peace, and progress. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by our founding fathers and the struggles of our national heroes.

    “In a country as diverse as ours, the national anthem is one of the few things that binds us together. It’s a common thread that runs through our collective fabric, reminding us of our shared identity and purpose.

    “I applaud the decision to return to our old national anthem and urge all Nigerians to embrace this move with open arms. Let us sing our national anthem with pride and passion, and let its lyrics inspire us to work towards a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.”

    Agbese said further that in less than one year in the saddle, Speaker Abbas has shown unwavering commitment to the legislative agenda, working tirelessly to ensure the passage of critical bills and motions that have positively impacted the lives of Nigerians.

    He stressed that his leadership has been marked by transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, earning him the respect and admiration of lawmakers, citizens, and the international community.

    He said: “As we approach the first anniversary of Speaker Abbas’ tenure, I join my colleagues and the entire nation in celebrating a year of visionary leadership and exemplary service.

    Read Also: Full stanza of new national anthem ‘Nigeria, We Hail thee’

    “Under Speaker Abbas’ guidance, our parliament has witnessed unprecedented growth, productivity, and unity. His unwavering commitment to democracy, inclusivity, and progress has inspired us all to work towards a common goal: a better Nigeria for all citizens.

    “Speaker Abbas’ accomplishments are too numerous but notably uniting the legislature and fostering a spirit of cooperation and collaboration, championing critical legislation that addresses the nation’s pressing challenges and promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.

    “His leadership has been a beacon of hope, inspiring us to strive for excellence and work towards a brighter future. His dedication, wisdom, and compassion have earned him the respect and admiration of all Nigerians.”