Jonathan Nwokpor
On Tuesday, the Senate approved the bill to reinstate Nigeria’s traditional national anthem.
This followed the adoption of the Senate Joint Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Legal Matters, Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs report at plenary.
The measure was first read in plenary on May 23, according to Senator Mohammed Monguno of the APC-Borno, the committee chairman who presented the report.
He added that, among other things, the law aimed to establish a legal foundation for an Act that would rewrite the 1960-adopted national anthem, “Nigeria We Hail Thee.”
He said the song served as Nigeria’s national anthem until 1978, when “Arise O Compatriot” occurred.
According to Monguno, the goal was to legislate the old national anthem because of its significance and contextual undertones, given the nation’s current status.
“The bill is designed to promote national unity and cohesion through ideological and philosophical concepts of the rich historic and cultural heritage of Nigeria.
“It will engender and inculcate a deep sense of patriotism, togetherness and oneness amongst citizens.
“It is the first time the parliament is making a legal framework for a national anthem: all the steps of law making including public hearing have been undertaken,” he said.
According to Monguno, the bill’s passing would give the National Orientation Agency, or NOA, the necessary platform to educate the public about the country’s fundamental values.
“Adopting the old national anthem will preserve and promote the country’s cultural heritage for future generations.
“The bill is significant, as changing the national anthem will symbolise Nigeria’s transition towards greater unity, inclusiveness and progress as a nation.
“The adoption of the anthem certainly demonstrates Nigeria’s respect for its cultural traditions while also embracing positive changes within the society,” he said.
The senator continued by saying that passing the bill would set a precedent and prevent an arbitrary alteration to the national anthem.
Sen. Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, expressed gratitude to the committee for its suggestions on the legislation.
He added that the bill was pending President Bola Tinubu’s approval and praised the stakeholders who offered feedback at the public hearing.
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