The Senate has unanimously supported President Bola Tinubu’s proposal to reinstate Nigeria’s original National Anthem.
News About Nigeria reports the Senate passed the Bill for an Act to Provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria and Related Matters 2024 during its session on Thursday.
It was sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, for a second reading. The bill seeks to revert to the old National Anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which was adopted at independence in 1960.
The anthem was replaced over four decades ago in 1978 by the then-administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Presenting the bill, Senator Bamidele said the old Anthem inspired patriotism and stimulated a deep sense of national identity and unity among Nigerians. He noted that the current Anthem was a product of the military junta and did not reflect the wishes and aspirations of Nigerians.
The old Anthem, he said, was a symbol of national pride and would provide a better symbol for unity, peace, and prosperity. He urged his colleagues to support the expeditious passage of the bill, which is in line with the current administration’s efforts to reorient and conscientize Nigerians.
Many Senators spoke in favour of the bill, saying the old National Anthem speaks to the configuration of the Nigerian nation and has the potency to foster love and national unity. They commended the presidency for coming up with the idea of reintroducing the old National Anthem into the national psyche.
After passing the second reading, the bill was referred to the Committees on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, and Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs for further consideration.
It was earlier reported that the House of Representatives passed a bill to revert to the old national anthem.
The bill, sponsored by the Majority Leader of the House, Julius Ihonvbere, was taken through the first, second, and third reading on Thursday amid opposition from some lawmakers.
