Nigerian National Anthem: Achebe, Gabriel Okara Preferred Restored Colonial Version

On 29 May 2024, President Bola Tinubu signed into law a bill reinstating Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” as an official symbol of the nation’s heritage. This bill, sponsored by prominent House of Representatives member Julius Ihonvbere, aims to honour the anthem that served Nigeria from its independence in 1960 until 1978, reigniting a long-standing cultural and intellectual debate.

Renowned Nigerian novelist and critic Chinua Achebe was a vocal advocate for the old anthem. He appreciated its embodiment of Nigeria’s aspirations at independence, despite its lyrics being penned by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams. Achebe believed the anthem captured a unifying spirit essential for the young nation and criticised its 1978 replacement for lacking the same depth and resonance.

Achebe’s stance was supported by several eminent Nigerian figures. Gabriel Okara, a celebrated poet, echoed Achebe’s sentiments, highlighting the anthem’s poetic quality and its ability to inspire national pride and unity. Wole Soyinka, Nigeria’s Nobel laureate in literature, also expressed his preference for the old anthem, praising its evocative language and call for justice and brotherhood among Nigerians.

Also read: The Nigerian National Anthem: The Old or the New, Matters Arising

“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” includes lyrics that call for unity despite ethnic diversity, justice, and peace for future generations. Critics, however, pointed out that the anthem’s foreign authorship raised questions about its authenticity and ability to genuinely represent the Nigerian spirit. Nevertheless, proponents argue that its message transcends its origins, resonating deeply with the values and hopes of Nigerians at the time of their independence.

The reinstatement of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as an official anthem has reignited discussions on national identity and cultural heritage in post-colonial contexts. Supporters of the move see it as a step toward reclaiming and honouring a significant part of Nigeria’s history, emphasising themes of unity and collective aspiration. They believe the anthem serves as a poignant reminder of the ideals upon which the nation was founded.

Conversely, critics argue that returning to the old anthem may overlook the progress and changes Nigeria has experienced since independence. They contend that a modern nation should have a contemporary anthem reflecting its current realities and ambitions. Some also worry that the reinstatement might overshadow the achievements and cultural evolution represented by the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” which has been in use since 1978.

In a broader sense, the decision to reinstate “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” symbolises a desire to reconnect with Nigeria’s foundational dreams and foster a sense of continuity with its past. It invites Nigerians to reflect on their collective journey, reassess the values that unify them, and consider how the past can inform a more inclusive and hopeful future.

Ultimately, the debate over the national anthem underscores the ongoing conversation about national identity, heritage, and the symbols that best represent the Nigerian people’s aspirations and experiences. As Nigeria moves forward, the discussion around its anthems—past and present—will likely continue to be a vibrant and essential part of its cultural discourse.