TheNewsGuru

Tag: National Anthem

  • Why I signed old national anthem into law – Tinubu breaks silence

    Why I signed old national anthem into law – Tinubu breaks silence

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given reason for the reintroduction of the old national anthem.

    According to Tinubu, during a meeting with the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) at the State House in Abuja, reverting to the old national anthem was a priority for him.

    The Nigerian leader added that he did not have a choice but to obey as it is the National Assembly who made the law.

    He said Nigeria’s diversity should be protected and celebrated, adding that the country’s population should not be seen as a burden.

    He said: “Let me allude to something that happened yesterday. The change of national anthem, ‘Nigeria, we hail thee’.

    “Some people say, okay… say what? Is that your priority? It’s my priority. I agree with the national assembly. If they make law, I’ve got to obey that law, or we disagree openly and close the chapter.”

    “But the question of diversity. Who gave us the name Nigeria? Is it not Britain? Or somewhere? Have we changed our name? We are Nigerians. Our passport shows that.

    “As long as we are Nigerians and one family, we remain and protect our diversity and love one another as brothers and sisters.

    “It is God Almighty that puts you in that particular place and makes you a member of that family. You have no control over it.

    “When I came begging for votes, I didn’t say vote for me as a Yoruba man, I said vote for me as Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

    Recall that in 2022, Tinubu in an interview said he would bring back the first national anthem if he had his way.

    Two years later, Tinubu signed a bill into law that returned the old national anthem themed: ‘Nigeria, we hail thee’.

    The return of the old anthem sparked mixed outrage amongst Nigerians and celebrities alike, as they queried the government for prioritizing the national anthem given the plethora of challenges, including  hardship confronting Nigerians.

  • Police call for arrest of school proprietor for reciting ‘old’ national anthem

    Police call for arrest of school proprietor for reciting ‘old’ national anthem

    Police Officer, Opeto Dolapo Badmus has called for the arrest of proprietor and head teacher of a private school (unnamed) for singing the “old” national anthem.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports that the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio announced on Wednesday at a joint session of the National Assembly that President Bola Tinubu signed the old National Anthem Bill 2024  ‘Nigeria, we hail thee’ as the “latest national anthem”.

    The old National anthem replaced the national anthem “Arise, O Compatriots”, the NewsGuru.com understands.

    However, some schools are yet to adopt the new anthem and still reverting to the former National anthem, according to Officer Dolapo.

    In an Instagram post on Friday morning, Badmus stressed that it is against the law to use the old anthem after the president of the federation have signed and assented the new national anthem.

    The female officer further noted that both the proprietor and head teacher will be charged  to court  for the offence.

    According to her, “If as at today, three days after the president of Federal Republic of Nigeria sighned and assented the new national Anthem into law and you are not able to recite it in a whole, then you are a suspect.

    “I just passed through a prive scholl and i could here them singing the old Natioanl Anthem! Arise oh compatriots”! (We are no more arising as compatriots, it is Nigeria we are hailing now.)

    “I have call the police to come and arrest not only the proprietor but the head teacher inclusive ( I will make sure they are charged to court) Dont ask me for what offence? Consult any lawyer to learn more, Anyone not singing the new national anthem is sabotahging Nigeria. I wont tolerate any unpatriotic attitude.”

  • National Anthem: The name Nigeria, flag should also be changed – Prof Mike Ozekhome

    National Anthem: The name Nigeria, flag should also be changed – Prof Mike Ozekhome

    A Human Right Lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Prof Mike Ozekhome has lauded the Federal Government for reverting to the old  National Anthem, saying it was a welcome development.

    Ozekhome noted that the change of the national anthem was long overdue.

    The senior lawyer who spoke at a press conference on Wednesday, said he was happy by Nigeria’s return to the old national anthem, 10 years after he moved a motion for it at the 2014 National Conference.

    “Bringing the old National Anthem back is well overdue. It has better lyrics in content and context, like the Senate President said. It is better than the other one,” he said.

    “The name Nigeria and the flag should also be changed.”

    It would be recalled  that President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday signed the National Anthem Bill 2024, into law to reinstate the old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”

  • Speaker Abbas tells NASS members what to do if they are not familiar with new National Anthem

    Speaker Abbas tells NASS members what to do if they are not familiar with new National Anthem

    Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas has advised members of the National Assembly (NASS) on what to do if they are not familiar with the newly adopted National Anthem, Nigeria, We Hail Thee.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Speaker Abbas gave the advice on Wednesday during a joint sitting of the NASS, which had President Bola Tinubu in attendance.

    The Speaker presided over the sitting along with Senate President Godswill Akpabio as President Tinubu led the joint sitting of the NASS to sing the newly adopted National Anthem.

    Abbas told members to Google the new anthem so they could recite it correctly, stressing “those who are over 59 years old  will know the wordings”.

    Earlier  when it was put to vote, the lawmakers agreed that the band should lead the anthem. However President Tinubu led the joint sitting of the National Assembly to sing the old National Anthem.

    Senator Akpabio had announced before the joint sitting that a new national anthem would begin from today, following Tinubu’s assent.

    Meanwhile, Rep Bamidele Salam (PDP-Osun) said he was not too keen on the new national anthem because it was delivered by the colonial master.

    He added that a blend of the old and the new one would have sufficed rather than discarding the old outrightly.

    “Since the majority agreed that we should revert, I followed what the majority said, but in my own opinion, we could have done a blend of the two.

    “The new national anthem was composed by a foreigner, the old one (Arise o compatriot) was composed by a Nigerian and some of the lyrics also invoke the spirit of nationalism.

    “This is in recognition of the sacrifice of our heroes past,” he said.

    Also speaking, Rep. Akin Rotimi, the Spokesperson of the House of Representatives said that it was a win-win situation as the second stanza of the national anthem would now be used as the national prayer.

    He said the national anthem is a source of building patriotism, adding that the former national anthem was not apt in terms of its lyrics.

  • Five Important Things To Know About Old National Anthem Signed Into Law

    Five Important Things To Know About Old National Anthem Signed Into Law

    Nigeria’s president, Bola Tinubu on Wednesday signed the old National Anthem Bill 2024 into Law.

    TheNewsGuru.com understands that the Old Anthem, ‘’Nigeria We Hail’’  will be replacing the current one, “Arise, O Compatriots”.

    Although there have been trails of mixed reactions since this development, as many likened the old anthem to having colonial tags, below are some of the important things to know note about the new anthem.

    1, The old National Anthem was recited for the first time today during a joint session of the National Assembly after it was enacted into law by President Tinubu.

    2, The anthem which was written by Lillian Jean William in 1959 was adopted in October 1, 1960 and later replaced with “Arise, O Compatriots” in 1978.

    3, Frances Berda composed the music for “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”

    4, The anthem has three stanzas, below are the lyrics;

    Nigeria we hail thee,
    Our own dear native land,
    Though tribe and tongue may differ,
    In brotherhood we stand,
    Nigerians all, and proud to serve
    Our sovereign Motherland.

    Our flag shall be a symbol
    That truth and justice reign,
    In peace or battle honour’d,
    And this we count as gain,
    To hand on to our children
    A banner without stain.

    O God of all creation,
    Grant this our one request,
    Help us to build a nation
    Where no man is oppressed,
    And so with peace and plenty
    Nigeria may be blessed.

    And lastly, the Nigerian Senate had the first reading for the old National Anthem Bill on Thursday 23 May 2024.

  • National Anthem will restore Nigeria’s lost glory – Reps Deputy Spokesperson

    National Anthem will restore Nigeria’s lost glory – Reps Deputy Spokesperson

    …applauds President Tinubu’s swift action on legislative matters

    …hails Speaker Abbas’ dedication to democratic governance

    The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon Philip Agbese, has welcomed Nigeria’s return to its old national anthem as a pathway to its golden era.

    Agbese, who spoke to pressmen on Wednesday after the 2024 Democracy Day National Assembly joint session, also praised President Bola Tinubu for his swift action on legislative matters.

    This was as he commended the Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas for his outstanding leadership and dedication to democratic governance.

    In just one year, he said President Tinubu has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to signing bills into law in record time, showcasing his administration’s responsiveness to the needs of citizens.

    Rep. Agbese added that the signing of the National Anthem and Student Loan Bills into law is a testament to President Tinubu’s willingness to engage with the legislature and drive meaningful change.

    According to him, the prompt attention to these bills has sent a clear message that his administration is focused on delivering tangible results, not just promises.

    “President Tinubu’s approach to legislative matters has fostered a collaborative environment, encouraging open dialogue and constructive engagement between the executive and legislative arms of government,” Agbese said.

    “This synergy has yielded significant benefits, including the swift passage and signing of crucial bills that address pressing national issues.

    “As a parliamentarian, I have witnessed firsthand the President’s commitment to democratic principles and his willingness to listen to diverse perspectives.

    “His door has always been open to constructive feedback and suggestions, demonstrating a genuine desire to serve the best interests of our nation.

    “The signing of the National Anthem and Student Loan Bills into law, which took less than 48 hours, is a testament to President Tinubu’s willingness to engage with the legislature and drive meaningful change.

    “I’m particularly thrilled with the return to our old national anthem as a major step towards the country’s return to glory days. This was an era of prosperity; when the economy worked, infrastructure was in top shape, agriculture was still the in thing and our educational system was among the best.

    “This anthem, with its familiar lyrics and stirring melody, evokes a sense of nostalgia and patriotism in the hearts of many Nigerians. It reminds us of our history, our struggles, and our triumphs. Its return is a welcome move that resonates with citizens from all walks of life.

    “The old national anthem is more than just a song; it’s a symbol of our shared values and aspirations. Its lyrics speak to our collective desire for unity, peace, and progress. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by our founding fathers and the struggles of our national heroes.

    “In a country as diverse as ours, the national anthem is one of the few things that binds us together. It’s a common thread that runs through our collective fabric, reminding us of our shared identity and purpose.

    “I applaud the decision to return to our old national anthem and urge all Nigerians to embrace this move with open arms. Let us sing our national anthem with pride and passion, and let its lyrics inspire us to work towards a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.”

    In less than a year, Agbese added that the Speaker has shown unwavering commitment to the legislative agenda, working tirelessly to ensure the passage of critical bills and motions that have positively impacted the lives of Nigerians.

    Agbese added that his leadership has been marked by transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, earning him the respect and admiration of lawmakers, citizens, and the international community.

    “As we approach the first anniversary of Speaker Abbas’ tenure, I join my colleagues and the entire nation in celebrating a year of visionary leadership and exemplary service,” he said.

    “Under Speaker Abbas’ guidance, our parliament has witnessed unprecedented growth, productivity, and unity. His unwavering commitment to democracy, inclusivity, and progress has inspired us all to work towards a common goal: a better Nigeria for all citizens.

    “Speaker Abbas’ accomplishments are too numerous but notably uniting the legislature and fostering a spirit of cooperation and collaboration, championing critical legislation that addresses the nation’s pressing challenges and promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.

    “His leadership has been a beacon of hope, inspiring us to strive for excellence and work towards a brighter future. His dedication, wisdom, and compassion have earned him the respect and admiration of all Nigerians.”

  • BREAKING: NASS uses Nigeria’s old National Anthem as Tinubu visits

    BREAKING: NASS uses Nigeria’s old National Anthem as Tinubu visits

    President Bola Tinubu has officially signed the amended National Anthem Bill into law, thereby reverting the country to the use of the old National Anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”.

    The National Anthem, “Nigeria We Hail Thee,” was sung for the first time today during a joint session of the National Assembly (NASS) after it was enacted into law by President Tinubu.

    The House of Representatives had approved a motion to invite President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Heads of State, the Senate President, Senators, and other distinguished individuals to join a joint session.

    The joint session of the NASS was part of activities to mark the first year anniversary of the current administration.

     

    Details shortly…

  • BREAKING: President Tinubu signs Bill to reintroduce old national anthem

    BREAKING: President Tinubu signs Bill to reintroduce old national anthem

    President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law.

    The bill seeks to reintroduce the old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”

    This was disclosed by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during the joint plenary that Tinubu attended.

    A final assent to the passage of the bill will bring about a shift from the now-recognised, “Arise O Compatriots.”

    The bill rapidly cleared by both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

  • Senate passes bill returning Nigeria to old National Anthem

    Senate passes bill returning Nigeria to old National Anthem

    The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed the bill seeking to return Nigeria to the old National Anthem.

    This followed the adoption of the report of Senate Joint Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Legal Matters, Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs at plenary.

    Presenting the report, the Chairman of the Committee, Sen. Mohammed Monguno(APC-Borno) said the bill was first read at plenary on May 23.

    He said the bill, among others, sought to provide a legal framework for an Act to reinvent the old National Anthem titled “Nigeria We Hail Thee” which was adopted at Independence in 1960.

    He said the anthem was the official anthem of Nigeria until 1978, when it was replaced with the current “Arise O Compatriot.”

    Monguno said the aim was to adopt the old national anthem through legislation because of its contextual connotations and relevance to the current state of the country.

    “The bill is designed to promote national unity and cohesion through ideological and philosophical concepts of the rich historic and cultural heritage of Nigeria.

    “It will engender and inculcate a deep sense of patriotism, togetherness and oneness amongst citizens.

    “It is the first time the parliament is making a legal framework for a national anthem: all the steps of law making including public hearing have been undertaken,” he said.

    Monguno said the passage of the bill would provide the needed platform for sensitisation of the citizenry on the nation’s core value system by the National Orientation Agency (NOA).

    “Adopting the old national anthem will preserve and promote the country’s cultural heritage for future generations.

    “The bill is significance, as changing the national anthem will symbolise Nigeria’s transition towards greater unity, inclusivness and progress as a nation.

    “The adoption of the anthem certainly demonstrates Nigeria’s respect for its cultural traditions while also embracing positive changes within the society,” he said.

    The senator added that by the passage of the bill, an arbitrary change on national anthem would be avoided as it would be subjected to legislative process, thus setting a precedent.

    The President of Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, thanked the committee for its input on the bill.

    He also commended the various stakeholders’ that made inputes on the bill at the public hearing, saying that the bill was awaiting President Bola Tinubu’s assent.

  • CARTOON OF THE DAY: Can you sing the old National Anthem?

    CARTOON OF THE DAY: Can you sing the old National Anthem?

    CARTOON OF THE DAY: Can you sing the old National Anthem?