Senate Joins House Of Reps In Passing Bill To Reinstate Former National Anthem

Senate Joins House Of Reps In Passing Bill To Reinstate Former National Anthem

The Senate has approved the National Anthem Bill 2024, paving the way to reinstate the former national anthem, “Nigeria, we hail thee”.
The bill swiftly passed both first and second readings and is now awaiting President Bola Tinubu’s assent to become law.
Under this legislation, the national anthem will transition from “Arise, O Compatriots” back to “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” the anthem used during Nigeria’s independence in 1960.
Originally composed during Nigeria’s early years of independence, the anthem was replaced in 1978 during Olusegun Obasanjo’s military rule.
Authored by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams and composer Frances Berda, the anthem played a pivotal role in fostering national unity and identity.
Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, highlighted the anthem’s significance, citing its ability to evoke patriotism and nostalgia among Nigerians.
The bill, which passed through a second reading last week, received unanimous approval from the Senate, mirroring the House of Representatives’ endorsement.