In a move that has drawn significant public criticism, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Anthem Bill into law, despite ongoing opposition from many Nigerians.
During a joint session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the president’s decision to sign the bill. Akpabio also revealed that President Tinubu will not deliver a customary address to the legislature, and will instead solely participate in the ceremonial flag-off of the new national anthem.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, stated that the president’s decision to forgo the address was due to the upcoming June 12 Democracy Day celebration, which is the official national holiday commemorating the country’s democratic transition.
The passage of the National Anthem Bill has been a contentious issue, with many Nigerians expressing concerns about the proposed changes to the country’s iconic song. Despite the public opposition, President Tinubu has moved forward with enacting the legislation, setting the stage for a new era in Nigeria’s national identity.