By Joke Kujenya
A LEGISLATIVE MOVE to bring back Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” saw swift progression through the House of Representatives, where it passed through its first, second, and third readings in a single session on Thursday.
The bill, championed by the majority leader Julius Ihonvbere, was met with notable support and swift approval in the plenary.
Ihonvbere highlighted the anthem’s potential to foster national unity and urged his fellow lawmakers to back the proposal and emphasized that the anthem would serve as a unifying force in a time when Nigeria needs cohesive national symbols.
However, the bill faced significant opposition from key members.
Minority leader Kingsley Chinda was particularly vocal, questioning the necessity and impact of reverting to the old anthem and he argued that legislative efforts should focus on enacting laws that offer tangible benefits to the country.
Chinda’s sentiments were echoed by Satomi Ahmed from Borno, who argued that the anthem change would not address pressing issues such as hunger and banditry. Ahmed called for legislative actions that would enhance Nigeria’s international image and drive progress.
Conversely, Ahmed Jaha, also from Borno, supported the bill, criticizing the current anthem, “Arise O Compatriots,” for failing to resonate with Nigerians. He argued that the old anthem had a stronger emotional and patriotic connection with the people.
The debate culminated in a voice vote overseen by Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu. Despite the loud opposition, Kalu confirmed the passage of the bill through its readings.
Simultaneously, the Senate saw parallel discussions, with the bill successfully passing its second reading.
Majority leader Opeyemi Bamidele spearheaded the debate, underscoring the need for an anthem that inspires patriotism.
Senator Victor Umeh supported this view, arguing that the old anthem’s emotive quality would better motivate citizens and foster a deeper sense of national pride.
Senator Plang Diket emphasized that the old anthem promoted brotherhood, a crucial element for national unity and pointed out the importance of respecting national symbols, noting the current state of the national flag as an example of waning patriotic fervor.
Senator Okechukwu Eze criticized the current anthem for lacking a resonant message, supporting the move to reinstate the former anthem for its unifying potential.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, put the bill to a voice vote, resulting in its passage through the second reading.
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was Nigeria’s national anthem from its independence on October 1, 1960, until it was replaced in 1978.
The anthem is cherished by many for its emphasis on unity and national pride, reflecting the aspirations of a newly independent nation.
Nigeria’s National Anthem Lyrics
Nigeria, we hail thee
Our dear native land
Though tribes and tongues may differ, in brotherhood we stand
Nigerians all, are proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.
Our flag shall be a symbol
That truth and justice reign
In peace or battle, honour’d,
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
Nigeria may be blessed.
At JKNewsMedia, our dedication to delivering reliable news and insightful information to our cherished readers remains unwavering. Every day, we strive to provide you with top-notch content that informs and enlightens. By donating to JKNewsMedia, you directly contribute to our mission of delivering quality journalism that empowers and informs. Your support fuels our commitment to bringing you the latest updates and in-depth analysis. Let's continue to uphold the highest standards of journalism and serve our community with integrity and dedication. Thank you for being a part of the JKNewsMedia family and for your ongoing support.
