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| Chris Iziguzo, the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), |
Chris Iziguzo, the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), believes that the recently adopted national anthem encapsulates the essence of being Nigerian. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Isiguzo emphasized that despite the country's linguistic and tribal diversity, the anthem serves as a unifying force.
The anthem, titled "Nigeria, We Hail Thee," reflects our collective identity as a nation with a shared destiny. Isiguzo acknowledges that while there may be differing opinions about the anthem, it underscores the coexistence of various tribes and tongues within Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law on May 29, reinstating the old anthem. This decision sparked debate, with some critics considering it a misplaced priority given the nation's pressing challenges.
During a meeting with the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) at the presidential villa in Abuja, Tinubu defended the move. He emphasized that Nigeria's diversity should be celebrated and protected, and the population's richness should not be perceived as a burden.
In the face of questions about our nation's identity, Tinubu reminded us that we are Nigerians, regardless of our origins or the name bestowed upon us by history. Our passports bear witness to this shared identity.
