Nigeria's Controversial Return to Colonial-Era National Anthem
In May, President Bola Tinubu reinstated Nigeria’s old national anthem 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee,' replacing 'Arise, O Compatriots.' The move has sparked debate about colonial legacies and governance. Critics see it as a distraction from key issues, while supporters argue it symbolizes national unity.
In May, President Bola Tinubu signed a bill reinstating Nigeria’s colonial-era national anthem 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee,' replacing 'Arise, O Compatriots' which had been in use since 1978.
The move was intended to invoke a sense of unity but has instead provoked significant debate, reflecting tensions about colonial legacies and contemporary governance.
The original anthem, written by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda when Nigeria gained independence in 1960, is seen by many as a relic of colonial influence.
Critics argue the return to the old anthem distracts from pressing issues like inflation and insecurity, while supporters believe it strengthens national diversity and democratic ideals.
The decision bypassed broad public consultation, raising concerns about governance and sovereignty.
Prominent critics, including former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili, have decried the move as regressive and a diversion from serious national issues.
Nigeria continues to grapple with its identity, seeking to reconcile a colonial past with a present marked by rapid global change and digital connectivity.
The move was intended to invoke a sense of unity but has instead provoked significant debate, reflecting tensions about colonial legacies and contemporary governance.
The original anthem, written by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda when Nigeria gained independence in 1960, is seen by many as a relic of colonial influence.
Critics argue the return to the old anthem distracts from pressing issues like inflation and insecurity, while supporters believe it strengthens national diversity and democratic ideals.
The decision bypassed broad public consultation, raising concerns about governance and sovereignty.
Prominent critics, including former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili, have decried the move as regressive and a diversion from serious national issues.
Nigeria continues to grapple with its identity, seeking to reconcile a colonial past with a present marked by rapid global change and digital connectivity.
