The Senate has initiated a public hearing on a proposed Act concerning Nigeria’s National Anthem and related issues.
Senate leader Opeyemi Bamidele, standing in for the Senate President at the hearing, mentioned that the second stanza of the current national anthem might be designated as the national prayer. He added that further consultations might be needed if necessary.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, emphasized that any changes should not be made solely through legislative action but should involve broader consultations. He believes that such changes should reflect the wishes of all Nigerians.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome, highlighted a line from the previous anthem that addresses oppression. He agreed with the Director General of the National Orientation Agency that changing the national anthem is overdue.
Ozekhome recalled suggesting this idea a decade ago at the 2014 CONFAB, where it was debated but ultimately rejected by the 490 delegates.
Ozekhome also criticized the current Nigerian flag, calling it too plain and uninspiring compared to those of the US and South Africa. He proposed changing the country’s name from ‘Nigeria’ to ‘Iregime,’ arguing that the current name feels burdensome.
He pointed out that other countries, including The Netherlands, Pakistan, France, Russia, Turkey, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, have undergone similar changes for development.
Ozekhome stressed the importance of a national referendum to address these issues comprehensively, asserting that minor constitutional amendments will not solve Nigeria’s problems.
