The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill to reinstate the national anthem titled “Nigeria We Hail Thee,” which was originally composed when Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960. The passage of this bill took place on Thursday, following its presentation by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) during the plenary session.
Senator Bamidele highlighted the historical significance of the old anthem, noting its crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and fostering unity. He remarked, “You will agree with me that those who were around in the 60s and the late 70s would attest to the fact that the anthem played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and unity, as well as engendering a high sense of value and personal belonging amongst the citizenry.”
Following the bill’s passage, Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred it to the Committee on Federal Character and Intergovernmental Affairs, instructing them to report back to the Senate promptly.
This move follows the House of Representatives, which had previously passed the same bill into law.
