Governance & Public Sector · In force

National Anthem Act 2024

Reinstated "Nigeria, We Hail Thee" (the 1960 independence anthem) as the national anthem, replacing "Arise, O Compatriots" — signed on the first anniversary of Tinubu's inauguration.

Signed
2024-05-29
Assented by
Status
In force
01 Background

The National Anthem Act 2024 reinstated the independence-era anthem "Nigeria, We Hail Thee" (used 1960-1978) as Nigeria's national anthem, replacing "Arise, O Compatriots" (adopted 1978). President Tinubu signed it on 29 May 2024 - the first anniversary of his inauguration - after the bill moved through both chambers of the National Assembly in under a week. The Act sets out the anthem as a national symbol, the occasions on which it must be performed, and mandates civic education so pupils learn its lyrics. The swift, low-consultation passage drew criticism that the change was a distraction from economic hardship.

02 Key provisions · 4
§ 01
Reinstates "Nigeria, We Hail Thee" (1960 anthem) as the national anthem
§ 02
Replaces "Arise, O Compatriots" (in use since 1978)
§ 03
Prescribes the occasions for mandatory performance of the anthem
§ 04
Mandates teaching of the anthem's lyrics in primary and secondary schools
03 What changed in practice
National anthem officially changed with effect from 29 May 2024
Schools and public institutions adopted the reinstated anthem
04 Who it affects
All NigeriansSchoolsPublic institutionsGovernment events
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