Tinubu makes reviving old national anthem top priority
President Bola Tinubu has stood by his decision to restore Nigeria’s former national anthem despite facing criticism, stating that it has always been a top priority for him.
During a meeting with the Arewa Consultative Forum in Abuja, Tinubu addressed the criticism by saying, “Some people question if this is my priority. It is indeed my priority. I respect the decision of the National Assembly. If a law is made, I will comply with it, or we can openly disagree and move on.”
President Tinubu officially endorsed the legislation on 29th May to bring back the old national anthem, ‘Nigeria, we hail thee’, which was replaced in 1978 by ‘Arise O Compatriots.’
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While the decision has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians, with some viewing it as a trivial issue compared to the country’s pressing challenges, Tinubu emphasized the importance of celebrating Nigeria’s diversity.
“Our diversity is our strength and should be cherished,” he stated. “It is evident in our passports. Regardless of our backgrounds, we are one Nigerian family who should embrace and support each other.”
Tinubu concluded by emphasizing the unity of Nigerians, saying, “We are brought together by the will of God to be part of this great nation. When I ran for office, I didn’t ask to be elected based on my ethnicity; I appealed to Nigerians as Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”