On May 23rd, 2024, Nigeria’s House of Representatives ignited a firestorm of controversy by passing a bill to revert the national anthem back to the pre-independence song, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”. The move has divided the nation, with passionate arguments on both sides. At its core, this debate is about much more than just a melody – it’s a reflection of Nigeria’s ongoing struggle to forge a unified identity while reckoning with its colonial past.
The Origins of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”
Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was penned in 1922 by Nigerian educator and musicologist Nana Oluwole Coker. The song became an anthem for the nationalist movement during the fight for independence, with lyrics that evoked pride in Nigeria’s natural beauty, diverse people, and the collective struggle for self-determination.
As historian Professor Adebayo Akindele explains, “The anthem spoke to the aspirations of a nation on the verge of liberation. It envisioned a future where Nigerians would be free to govern themselves and chart their own course.
The Shift to “Arise, O Compatriots”
In 1978, during a period of military rule, Nigeria adopted a new national anthem: “Arise, O Compatriots. Composed by General Emeka Ojukwu, this anthem carried a more martial tone, emphasizing unity, strength, and service to the nation.
However, critics argue that the anthem’s origins under military dictatorship taint its symbolism. Social commentator Bisi Adeleke contends, “The current anthem feels imposed. It doesn’t feel like a song the people own. It’s a constant reminder of a period of military rule.”
The Debate: Nostalgia vs. Progress
Proponents of the switch back to “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” argue that the current anthem fails to capture the spirit of the nation’s founding and its fight for independence. Supporters like Hon. Aisha Muhammed believe that the older anthem “speaks of our struggles, our resilience, and the joy of independence. It resonates with the very soul of Nigeria.”
On the other hand, opponents see the change as unnecessary and potentially divisive. Hon. Chukwuma Okafor argues, “National symbols, especially the anthem, should represent continuity and unity. Changing the anthem now opens a can of worms. What message does it send about our commitment to progress since independence?”
Beyond the Anthem: A Search for National Identity
While nostalgia plays a role, the anthem debate is ultimately about Nigeria’s ongoing struggle to forge a unified national identity that encompasses its diverse ethnicities and religions in the post-colonial era.
Sociologist Dr. Nneka Okafor sees the debate as a starting point for a broader conversation: “This debate is about who we are as Nigerians, what our values are, and how we want to move forward together.”
Public Opinion Divided
Reactions from the Nigerian public have been split. Some see a return to “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as reconnecting with the nation’s roots and honoring the sacrifices made for independence. Others worry it would be a step backward, arguing that national symbols should evolve with the times.
Lagos resident Emeka Nwoye believes the message of the older anthem is key: “‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ reminds us of the sacrifices made to get us here. We shouldn’t forget that.”
Aisha Abubakar from Abuja disagrees, saying, “‘Arise, O Compatriots’ may not be perfect, but it represents the Nigeria we are building today, a nation united in its diversity.
The Path Forward
The bill to change the anthem now moves to the Senate for consideration. If passed, it would require presidential approval to become law.
Regardless of the outcome, Professor Akindele sees the debate itself as an opportunity: “This debate isn’t just about a song. It’s about the kind of nation we want to be. It’s a chance to have those conversations and emerge stronger, more united.”
As Nigeria grapples with its past and envisions its future, the anthem debate serves as a catalyst for a deeper national dialogue about identity, unity, and the enduring impact of colonialism. The path forward may not be clear, but the conversation itself is a vital step in Nigeria’s ongoing journey as a nation.
