President Bola Tinubu has revealed that the reversion to the old national anthem was his priority amidst widespread criticism from Nigerians who are struggling with a high cost of living and insecurity.
Tinubu made the revelation during a meeting with the Arewa Consultative Forum on Thursday.
He said:
“Let me allude to something that happened yesterday. The change of national anthem, ‘Nigeria, we hail thee.’
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“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.”
The President signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law on Wednesday, marking his one-year anniversary in office and 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria.
However, many Nigerians, including former political office holders, have criticized the timing, citing the country’s pressing issues of hardship and insecurity.
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Former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili had disclosed her disapproval on social media, calling the reversion to the old national anthem a “misplaced priority” and “majoring in minor.”
Similarly, former Senator Shehu Sani condemned the move, stating that Nigeria faces serious economic and security challenges, but is prioritizing changing its national anthem.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu’s policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and floating the naira, have led to a great increase in transportation and food costs, while the naira continues to decline against the dollar.
Despite expert praise for his bold moves, Nigerians continue to criticize Tinubu’s government, citing economic hardship and insecurity.
Market surveys have shown that food prices have risen by over 100 per cent, while the national minimum wage remains unchanged.
Insecurity also persists, with Boko Haram and bandits continuing their killing sprees and abductions for ransom.
