Nigerians React with Outrage as Government Reverts to 1960 National Anthem

In a move that has sparked widespread outrage and disbelief, many Nigerians are reacting to the reintroduction of Nigeria's 1960 national anthem, "Nigeria, We Hail Thee."

On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu signed into law a bill to revert to Nigeria’s original national anthem. The President announced the change during his first anniversary in office, highlighting the anthem’s role in symbolizing Nigeria’s diversity.

While some welcome the return as a symbol of national heritage and a step towards rekindling national pride and unity, others have raised concerns about the timing, arguing that the government should prioritize addressing pressing issues such as unemployment and economic hardship rather than symbolic changes.

Nigeria, We Hail Thee" adopted on October 1, 1960 as Nigeria's first national anthem during her independence with lyrics by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and music composed by Frances Berda, was replaced in 1978 by the current anthem, "Arise, O Compatriots."

Diverse Reactions Trails the Reintroduction

While some Nigerians view the move as a positive step towards honoring national heritage and unity, others criticize it as a distraction from more pressing socio-economic issues.

According to Niniola Olatunji, a Sociologist, she noted that the move is commendable as it reflects Nigeria’s collective identity: "This move by President Tinubu is commendable. Our national anthem should reflect our collective identity, and 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee' does just that. It was the anthem that saw us through the early years of our nationhood and can serve to remind us of our shared goals and values."

Adetokunbo Oluwole, is likewise of the opinion that: "The old anthem has a unique place in our national heritage. It was the soundtrack of our journey to independence. Restoring it could serve as a powerful reminder of our collective identity and the values that bind us as Nigerians. This is an opportunity to reconnect with our roots and strengthen national pride."

However, Dr. Olufunmilayo Adesanya, a Historian believes that the move by the government is wrong at this time as it undermines Nigeria’s fight for independence: "This decision is a step backward. Our current anthem, 'Arise, O Compatriots,' reflects our own voice and aspirations post-independence. Reverting to a colonial-era anthem undermines our progress and the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom. It is a regressive move that ignores the complexities of our identity."

Similarly, Amina Yusuf, a business owner in Lagos expressed that: "I can't believe this is happening. Our current anthem inspires pride and unity. The old anthem reminds me of stories my grandparents talked about the hardships under colonial rule. We should be building a future that honours our heritage, not one that drags us back to a painful past."

"It's disheartening to see our leaders make such a decision. We're living in a time where many African countries are reclaiming and celebrating their heritage” says Grace Eze, a University Student. “Going back to a colonial anthem feels like a step in the opposite direction. We need to focus on creating a future that all Nigerians can be proud of" she added.

"Changing the anthem won’t put food on our tables or improve our living conditions. It feels like the government is out of touch with the struggles of ordinary Nigerians. We need tangible improvements in our daily lives, not just changes in national symbols" says Ngozi Okeke, a Market Trader at Mile 12, Lagos.

Some citizens express a mixed view of understanding and concern over the timing and priorities, confirming that it is crucial that the government balances symbolic actions with practical solutions to the challenges that the country is facing at the moment.

In her words, Ms. Joan Kelly, a Historian and University lecturer of History in Ondo state, noted that the anthem raised critical concerns regarding its colonial origins. “Although the anthem is nice, some part of the lyrics really made sense, but that the president would adopt an anthem that was not written or composed into music by Nigerians” says Ms. Joan. “This anthem was introduced, used and dropped by the then government. If it was written by a black person, I would not have problem with it but the main fact that it was written by a white person and we know how these people think of us,” she added.

Ngozi Nwosu, a Public Health Worker affirm that: "I understand the historical significance of the old anthem, but I am conflicted. While it's important to honour our past, we must also address the present challenges facing our country. The government needs to prioritize the pressing issues of poverty, healthcare, and education. A symbolic gesture like this won't fix the systemic problems we face."

Sunday Yusuf, a teacher expressed that: "There is value in remembering our history and the symbols that marked our journey to independence. However, the timing of this change is questionable. Our focus should be on creating a better future for our children. National pride should come from progress and development, not from nostalgia.

Bottom Line

The re-adoption of "Nigeria, We Hail Thee" as Nigeria’s national anthem under President Bola Tinubu’s administration has sparked a wide range of reactions. Supporters view it as a unifying symbol that honours the nation’s heritage, while critics argue that it distracts from urgent socio-economic issues. The challenge for the government will be to ensure that this symbolic change is accompanied by tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.