National Academy of Letters Criticizes Swift Passage of New National Anthem Bill

The National Academy of Letters (NAL) has voiced strong opposition to the rapid passage of the new national anthem bill into law, expressing concerns over the National Assembly's priorities. The bill, which replaces "Arise, O Compatriots" with "Nigeria, We Hail Thee," was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2024, following its passage on May 23.

In a press release obtained by our correspondent on Monday, NAL criticized the National Assembly for not prioritizing the interests of the Nigerian people. During a virtual roundtable discussion on Nigeria's national anthem, several prominent academics shared their perspectives on the issue.

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Professor Ayo Ojebode of the University of Ibadan's Department of Applied Communication argued that changing the national anthem should not have been a priority. "What matters is how people can define themselves and the values they uphold, rather than the lyrics," Ojebode stated. He emphasized the importance of evolving a sense of value, identity, and unity before considering a change in the national anthem.

Professor Maduabuchi Dukor of Nnamdi Azikwe University's Department of Philosophy highlighted that the anthem should transcend symbolism and reflect the realities and ideals of the people. "Being Africans, we value the past, present, and future. The national anthem has to be the collective consciousness of the people and be patriotic. It must be an inspirational mantra that will define our ideal in this millennial information age," Dukor said.

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Funmilayo Olubode-Sawe, Professor of Applied Linguistics and Terminology at the Federal University of Technology, expressed regret over the self-serving nature of the leaders. "Our leaders are selfish and they are not working in the people's interests. We need to start a value reorientation and build a nation where no man is oppressed," she asserted.

Professor Ebun Oduwole of Olabisi Onabanjo University's Department of African Philosophy and Bioethics emphasized that the national anthem should reflect the hope, values, aspirations, culture, heritage, and history of the people, giving them a sense of patriotism and identity. "It is about the content which should define people's identity. This is why the anthem of the nation should be well respected because it showcases what everybody thinks about the country and be able to unify us," Oduwole stated.

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Critics argue that more urgent issues, such as inflation, insecurity, and economic challenges, should take precedence over anthem changes. NAL’s condemnation underscores the need for thoughtful decisions that impact Nigeria’s collective identity and values