Some Nigerians have expressed outrage over the bill President Bola Tinubu signed into law on Wednesday morning, which reinstates the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”
The bill, introduced simultaneously in the Senate and House of Representatives last week, received accelerated consideration and passage.
The speed of the bill’s passage has drawn criticism, especially at a time when the country is grappling with rising inflation and security challenges.
During the launch of the new law at the National Assembly, President Tinubu commended the lawmakers for their swift action.
“Please, let’s continue to collaborate and build our country.
We have no other institutions or personality that will help us unless we do it ourselves.
Let us work together to build our nation not only for us but generations yet unborn,” Tinubu said.
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” composed by British expatriates, was Nigeria’s national anthem from Independence in 1960 until it was replaced by “Arise, O Compatriots” in 1978.
The new law now reverts the national anthem to “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”
While a few commend the President for signing the bill into law, many see it as a misplaced priority. Social media has been abuzz with criticisms.
On X (formerly Twitter), user @Zarmaomar sarcastically wrote, “The long-awaited national anthem bill that will solve the issues of insecurity, hunger, corruption and create job opportunities has been officially signed by the President…”
@Mudiaga247 questioned, “How does signing this bill help the Drowning Economy.”
@KennyNuga commented, “Misplaced priority.
We need laws mandating all vehicles to shift off the road when an Ambulance is approaching.
We need laws that criminalize bullying in our institutions.”
@RealQueenBee_ expressed skepticism, “This will now be an achievement for the Tinubu administration, reverting back to the colonial anthem.”
@Ikepicano wondered, “Did he know what he signed?”
@PatoEner criticized the government’s priorities, “This government is never implementing policies that would alleviate the poverty in the economy.
Or do they think hungry people sing the national anthem?”
@DoublePrince001 highlighted the rapid passage of the bill, “Within 7 days it was sorted…
Let’s talk about minimum wage or what will benefit Nigerians…
It will take months and years.”
@iam_damayor mockingly said, “Congratulations Nigerians, we now have a new National Anthem.
When you want to buy anything, just recite it and you get the 2015 price of that goods/service.”
@That_Ondo_Boy added a touch of irony, “As for me, I’m in support of this Old National Anthem ooo.
Tinubu you do this one oooo.
Now, let’s sign to bill the old exchange rate, old food price to as at the time of the old National Anthem.”
