The Senate has approved the National Anthem Bill 2024.
Credible News earlier reported that the bill seeks to reinstate the old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”
The bill rapidly cleared both its first and second readings and now awaits President Bola Tinubu’s signature to become law.
The bill sponsored by the Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, enjoys overwhelming support from the lawmakers.
The lawmakers, who appeared unanimous in support of the bill, argued that it would promote better symbol for unity, peace and prosperity, compared to the current one.
READ ALSO: Senate begins public hearing on change of national anthem
After a closed door session to debate on the bill, the lawmakers asserted that the current national anthem is a product of the military junta, decreed by the military and therefore should be discarded to adequately capture the nations democratic values, integrity and principally foster commitment to nationhood.
The old anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was replaced with the current one “Arise, O Compatriots in 1978.
Meanwhile, the the House of Representatives has passed the bill to revert to the old national anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”.
The bill was quickly passed through first second and third reading at the lower chamber within minutes.
Credible News.ng
