Teni Mourns The Now Old Nigeria's National Anthem

Image: Daily Post

Popular singer Teniola Apata, known simply as Teni, has shared her reaction to the recent change of Nigeria’s national anthem. This follows President Bola Tinubu's decision on Wednesday to sign the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law, reinstating the old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”

Teni expressed her sentiments on her X handle, lamenting the replacement of the former anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots.” She highlighted the deep connection she had with the anthem, citing many cherished childhood memories associated with it.

"Arise o compatriots, I’ll miss you, thank you for so many childhood memories. till we meet again, love SM," Teni wrote, reflecting the nostalgia and emotional attachment many Nigerians feel towards the anthem that has been in place since 1978.

The anthem “Arise, O Compatriots” was adopted as Nigeria’s National Anthem in 1978, with lyrics composed by John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B. A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui, and P. O. Aderibigbe. The Nigeria Police Band, under the direction of B. E. Odiasse, performed the anthem.

With the signing of the National Anthem Bill 2024, “Arise, O Compatriots” has now been officially replaced by the older anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” This change has sparked mixed reactions across the country, with many, like Teni, expressing a sense of loss and nostalgia.

The move has also drawn criticism from other celebrities and public figures, who argue that the government should focus on more pressing national issues rather than symbolic changes. The discourse highlights a broader concern about the priorities of the current administration amidst ongoing economic and social challenges.

As Nigerians adjust to this significant change, the hope is that the reinstated anthem will foster a renewed sense of unity and patriotism, even as the country navigates its complex landscape of challenges and opportunities.

Source: Daily Post

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