The Senate has passed the National Anthem Bill 2024, which seeks to reinstate the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” The bill, which swiftly passed its first and second readings on Thursday, now awaits President Bola Tinubu’s assent to become law.

The legislation proposes replacing the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” the anthem composed at Nigeria’s independence on October 1, 1960. This anthem was replaced in 1978 during Olusegun Obasanjo’s military administration.

Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate who lived in Nigeria during its independence, wrote the lyrics for “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” while Frances Berda composed the music. The anthem played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and unity during the 1960s and late 1970s.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele highlighted the anthem’s significance, stating, “Upon rendition, it inspired deep patriotism among Nigerians. Those who lived through that era recognize its crucial role in our nation’s history, evoking nostalgia and fond memories of our early years.”

On Monday, the Senate held a public hearing on an Act to establish the National Anthem of Nigeria and related matters. Representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Bamidele stated that the second stanza of the existing national anthem would become the national prayer. He added that further consultations might be necessary.

Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, emphasized that the amendment should involve broader consultation beyond legislative action. He noted that while the reversal was not inappropriate, it should reflect the general wishes of all Nigerians.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome, supported the change, citing one of the lines from the previous anthem addressing oppression. He agreed with the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency that the change was long overdue. Ozekhome recalled that he first proposed the idea of reverting to the old anthem at the 2014 CONFAB, where it was widely debated and supported.

The House of Representatives has also passed the bill. For the return to the old anthem to take effect, the bill will need to be harmonized by both chambers and receive the President’s approval.