By Karen James
In a surprising move, Nigeria has taken a step backwards in its national journey by reverting to the old National Anthem. Many citizens and critics alike are questioning the decision, stating that it was unnecessary and a lack of priorities on the part of the government.
The existing anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” written by a collective of young Nigerians in 1978, was widely embraced and celebrated by the nation. It represented the spirit and aspirations of the Nigerian people. However, it has now been replaced by “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” written by an English woman, Lillian Jean Williams.
The decision to adopt an anthem written by a foreigner has raised eyebrows, with many questioning why Nigeria couldn’t come up with its own indigenous anthem. The country boasts a rich musical heritage, with iconic musicians like Fela Kuti, Osita Osadebe, and contemporary stars like Sade Adu, Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid. Importing a music of national significance from Britain seems preposterous and uninspired.
Furthermore, Nigeria’s history is riddled with colonial impositions. The name Nigeria itself was given to the country by an English woman, Flora Shaw, in 1897. Critics argue that the country should have changed its name to something indigenous, just as Ghana did when it changed from Gold Coast to Ghana at Independence in 1957. They also argue that the name Lagos should be reverted to its original name, Eko, as Lagos is an imposed Portuguese name with no administrative significance.
Instead of addressing these underlying colonial relics, the government has chosen to discard a nationally celebrated anthem in favor of one written by a foreigner. This raises questions about Nigeria’s sovereignty and national psyche, as it willingly returns to the yoke of imperialism.
Critics believe that President Tinubu should not have assented to the bill approving the change. They argue that he should have communicated the implications on the country’s sovereignty and national identity to the National Assembly. As the Head of State, he has a duty to promote indigenous ideas over imperialistic ones.
It remains to be seen if there will be any further action taken to rectify this perceived mistake. The Nigerian people are left to contemplate the significance of adopting an anthem written by a foreigner and what it means for their national identity.
