Governance & Public Sector

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
Status
In force

1 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.

2 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

3 What changed in practice

National anthem officially changed with effect from 29 May 2024
Schools and public institutions adopted the reinstated anthem

4 Who it affects

All NigeriansSchoolsPublic institutionsGovernment events

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