A bill seeking to revert Nigeria to its old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” has passed second reading in the Senate.
The bill, sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), aims to promote a better symbol of unity, peace, and prosperity.
In his lead debate, Bamidele argued that the proposed legislation would inspire Nigerians to build a fully integrated and indivisible nation, where all citizens live in unity and harmony, adding that the old anthem played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and unity in the 1960s and 1970s.
Senators widely supported the bill, with Senator Mohammad Mongono (APC , Borno North) stating that the current national anthem was imposed by a military junta and does not reflect the wishes of Nigerians.
Senator Ezeah Okechukwu (LP, Enugu North) added that a national anthem should invoke emotions and acceptance, while Senator Yohanna Amos (Adamawa North) emphasized that Nigerians should be given the opportunity to decide on the matter through a democratic process.
Other senators, including Jimoh Ibrahim, Victor Umeh, and Bamidele, praised the old anthem for its ability to mobilize citizens, promote patriotism, and reflect Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
The bill has been referred to the Senate committees on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, as well as Federal Character and Intergovernmental Affairs for further action.
The old national anthem’s words are;
“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 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.”
Editor: Oloyede Oworu
