Special Features
A Nation Divided? Fallout After Nigeria’s New Anthem
On May 29, 2024, Nigeria’s new national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” became official despite significant public criticism.
This move by the government, spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu, reignited a decades-old debate about national identity, symbolism, and the role of public discourse.
A Return to the Past, or a Step Backwards?
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was the national anthem from independence in 1960 until it was replaced by “Arise, O Compatriots” in 1978 during military rule. Critics of the reinstatement point out the anthem’s colonial roots, with some terms like “native land” and “tribes” seen as outdated and potentially divisive.
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Dr. Aisha Bello, a history professor at the University of Ibadan, argues, “National symbols like the anthem should be unifying.
This anthem evokes a colonial past many Nigerians would rather forget. It feels like a rejection of the progress we’ve made as a nation.”
New Anthem
The Process Under Scrutiny
The speedy passage of the bill to reinstate the anthem remains a major point of contention.
The National Assembly approved the legislation with minimal debate, raising concerns about transparency and public participation.
Oby Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education, called the move “an obnoxious law repugnant to all who are of good conscience in Nigeria.”
Public Discourse Continues
While the anthem is now officially adopted, the public conversation around it shows no signs of slowing down. Social media platforms remain abuzz with reactions.
The hashtag #NotMyNationalAnthem continues to trend, with many Nigerians expressing their disapproval. However, some, like public affairs analyst Frank Tietie, maintain the return to the pre-military anthem was a positive step.
National Identity: Beyond Symbols?
The controversy highlights the complex nature of national identity in Nigeria. With over 250 ethnicities and diverse cultures, fostering unity remains a constant challenge.
While some believe the national anthem plays a crucial role in uniting the country, others argue it’s a superficial symbol.
Nigerians hold a range of views every day. John Abiodun, a Lagos resident, stated, “The anthem is just a song. What matters is that we Nigerians work together for a better future.”
New Anthem
In contrast, another resident, Sarah Nneka, a student in Abuja, stated, “The anthem represents who we are. It shouldn’t be changed so easily.”
Moving Forward: Addressing Concerns
The debate surrounding the national anthem underscores the importance of open communication and inclusivity in shaping Nigeria’s national identity.
Historians like Professor Bello believe, “This controversy provides an opportunity for a national conversation, even after the change.
We need to have open discussions about who we are as Nigerians and what symbols truly represent us.”
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The government now faces the challenge of addressing public concerns and fostering a sense of national unity.
Whether “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” resonates with the people or remains a source of division will depend on the government’s willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue and consider potential revisions that reflect a more inclusive national identity.
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