Nigerians Express Disappointment in Abrupt Change In National Anthem

President Bola Tinubu has sparked controversy and disappointment among Nigerians after he signed into law a bill to revert to the country’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” with minimal public consultation. The decision has been met with widespread criticism, particularly due to the timing amidst a severe cost-of-living crisis.

The newly re-adopted anthem, written by Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances Berda, replaces the anthem that had been in place since 1978.

President Tinubu, speaking on the occasion of his first anniversary in office, stated that the anthem symbolized Nigeria’s rich diversity and historical heritage.

Despite these sentiments, many Nigerians have expressed frustration and disapproval. Social media platforms and public forums have been flooded with reactions criticizing the government’s priorities.

Critics argue that the change is ill-timed and diverts attention from more pressing issues facing the nation, such as escalating insecurity, rampant inflation, and a severe foreign exchange crisis.