President Bola Tinubu has signed into law the National Anthem Bill, which reverts to Nigeria’s original national anthem from its independence in 1960, “Nigeria we hail thee.” This bill, passed by the National Assembly on Tuesday, replaces the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” which had been in use since 1978.
The announcement of the presidential assent was made by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, during a joint session of both chambers of the National Assembly. This session marked the celebration of 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria.
Prior to the arrival of President Tinubu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, encouraged lawmakers and visitors to download and familiarize themselves with the old national anthem, which will now be reinstated as Nigeria’s official anthem.
The move marks a significant cultural shift, reinstating a piece of Nigeria’s heritage that had been abrogated by the military regime 46 years ago. The change underscores the current administration’s commitment to honoring Nigeria’s historical legacy.