Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu, has confessed that restoring the old colonial-era national anthem has always been a top priority for him personally.
He was speaking at a meeting with the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) leadership – a top northern Nigeria think tank and opinion moulders, on Thursday at the presidential villa in Abuja. It was on the first year anniversary of his presidency on May 29, that he signed a legislative bill reinstating the old anthem – “Nigeria, We Hail Thee“. The current anthem “Arise O’ Compatriots”, now effectively jettisoned.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions. Some critics argue that the revival of the old anthem reflects “misplaced priorities,” given the many issues facing Nigerians.
Referencing recent events, Tinubu stated, “The national anthem, ‘Nigeria, we hail thee,’ will be changed. Some people question if this is a priority. It’s my priority. I agree with the National Assembly. If they make a law, I’ve got to obey that law, or we disagree openly and close the chapter.”
Preaching Unity
Tinubu told his northern guests that he firmly believes that Nigeria’s diversity is not a burden but a blessing. “Consider our diversity” he told them, “Who gave us the name Nigeria? Was it not Britain? Yet, have we altered our identity? No. We are Nigerians. Our passports bear witness to this fact.”
“As long as we are Nigerians and one family, we must protect our diversity and love one another as brothers and sisters. God Almighty places you in a particular place and makes you a member of that family. You have no control over it.
“When I came begging for votes, I didn’t say vote for me as a Yoruba man; I said vote for me as Bola Ahmed Tinubu.“
But that is not entirely true. In 2022, then aspirant of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Tinubu had remarked in a speech at Abeokuta, Ogun State, that he believed the 2023 presidency was “Yoruba turn“. He also in an interview the same year, indicated his preference for the old national anthem, stating he would restore it “if I have my way.“
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