In a move marking the 25th anniversary of Nigeria’s unbroken democratic rule, President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law, reinstating the old national anthem ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’. The bill, which passed both the Senate and House of Representatives, replaces the anthem used since 1978 with the original composed at Nigeria’s independence in 1960. The President made the announcement during a joint session of the National Assembly, a gathering that also celebrated the Silver Jubilee of Nigeria’s 4th Republic and the first anniversary of Tinubu’s administration.Despite earlier reports of a cancelled address, President Tinubu did speak to lawmakers, albeit briefly, touching on the National Anthem Bill and discussing the planned 2024 Supplementary Appropriation Bill. In his speech, Tinubu emphasized the need to protect democracy for the future of Nigerian children and highlighted the importance of self-reliance, stating that foreign aid cannot develop Nigeria. The President’s call for unity was echoed in his appeal to citizens to work together as brothers and sisters, resonating with the spirit of the old national anthem.The All Progressives Congress (APC) has also defended President Tinubu’s record, responding to criticism from former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar by citing $20 billion in economic inflows, a 400% increase in the stock exchange, and an annual economic growth rate of 3.46%. However, Chidi Odinkalu’s remarks at the National Day of Mourning 2024 event in Jos painted a contrasting picture, criticizing the government’s disregard for citizens’ votes and alleging corruption among politicians and judges.The President’s legislative agenda and the recent change to the national anthem have sparked a mix of reactions, with some praising the return to a historical symbol of national identity and others questioning the priorities amid broader political and economic challenges.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu signed the National Anthem Bill 2024, reinstating the original anthem from 1960.
- Tinubu addressed the National Assembly, announcing a 2024 Supplementary Appropriation Bill and emphasizing the importance of unity and self-reliance for Nigeria’s future.
- The APC has defended Tinubu’s economic achievements, while critics highlight concerns about political corruption and the government’s priorities.
