House of Reps Passed Bill to Revert To Old Nigeria’s National Anthem

The Senate has passed a bill sponsored by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele to revert to Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”. The bill received overwhelming support from lawmakers, who argued that the old anthem better symbolizes unity, peace, and prosperity. The Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters has been tasked with reviewing the bill and reporting back to the house within two weeks.

Proponents of the bill, led by Professor Julius Ihonvbere, argue that the old anthem is a more meaningful national symbol and a sign of authority. However, Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda opposed the bill, citing the colonial origins of the old anthem and questioning the timing of the change.

Despite this opposition, the bill was passed by the lawmakers, who argued that the current national anthem is a relic of the military junta and does not reflect the country’s democratic values. The House of Representatives has also passed the bill, paving the way for the old anthem to be reinstated.

The old anthem, which was replaced in 1978, reads:

“Nigeria, we hail thee,
Our own dear native land,
Though tribe and tongue 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 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.”