President Tinubu Prioritizes Return of Old National Anthem Amidst Mixed Reactions
President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the importance of reinstating Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” as a key priority. Tinubu made this declaration during a meeting on Thursday with the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) at the presidential villa in Abuja.
On Wednesday, May 29, 2024, Tinubu signed the National Anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” Bill 2024 into law, signaling the official return of the old anthem. This decision has sparked diverse opinions, with some critics labeling it as a “misplaced priority” in light of the numerous challenges facing the country.
“Let me allude to something that happened yesterday. The change of national anthem, ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee,’” Tinubu remarked. “Some people ask, is that your priority? It is 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.”
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of protecting and celebrating Nigeria’s diversity, urging that the nation’s population should be viewed as a strength rather than a burden. “Who gave us the name Nigeria? Is it not Britain? Have we changed our name? We are Nigerians. Our passport shows that,” he stated.
“As long as we are Nigerians and one family, we must protect our diversity and love one another as brothers and sisters. It is God Almighty that places you in that particular place and makes you a member of that family. You have no control over it,” Tinubu added.
Reflecting on his campaign, Tinubu reminded the audience that his appeal for votes was not based on his ethnicity but on his individual identity and vision for Nigeria. “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.”
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