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Senate Advocates Returning to Nigeria’s Former National Anthem
In a significant development in the Nigerian Senate, a proposed bill to revert to the country’s previous national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” has gained momentum and passed a crucial second reading.
The decision to swap the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with the former composition stems from its adoption during the era of former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 1978. Spearheaded by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the bill has garnered widespread support among lawmakers, as evident by the enthusiastic reception it received during a recent plenary session.
Drawing on the rationale that the current anthem was imposed during a period of military rule, members of the Senate collectively argued that the previous anthem better encapsulates democratic values, national integrity, and the essence of fostering a strong sense of national unity and pride among Nigerians.
Following a robust debate on the subject matter, Senate President Godswil Akpabio directed the bill to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters for further scrutiny and recommendations. The intention is for the committee to thoroughly examine the proposed legislative change and present their findings to the entire Senate for further deliberation.
If the bill ultimately receives the Senate’s approval, it would entail reinstating the cherished verses of the former national anthem in place of the current rendition, thereby invoking a wave of nostalgia and renewed national spirit amongst the citizenry. Stay tuned as this pivotal legislative move unfolds, potentially altering Nigeria’s musical symbol of patriotism and unity.
