NASS passes bill to replace Nigeria anthem with old anthem

By Peters Monday, Abuja

Last Thursday, a bill to replace Nigeria’s current national anthem with the old one was introduced in the National Assembly and quickly passed through three readings.

However, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi and Minister of Information Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi have expressed opposition to the hasty passage, advocating for wider consultation and a focus on national identity.

While some, like Chief Mike Ozekhome, support the change, others like Maxi Okwu and Adebowale Wilfred see it as a distraction from pressing issues like economic hardship and insecurity.

Social worker Mrs. Vivian James supports the change, citing the old anthem’s unifying message, but legal practitioner Marcellus Onah criticised the focus on the national anthem, urging lawmakers to address corruption, inflation, and insecurity. The debate highlights the need for inclusive decision-making and prioritizing pressing national issues.