A National Anthem is a vital element of modern government, approved by the government and people to express their history and national aspirations. It enhances national pride, fosters a sense of unity, and is sung at significant events to add solemnity. Citizens sing it respectfully, often placing their right palm on their left breast as a symbol of national reverence and allegiance. Serving as a patriotic song, National Anthems aim to instill patriotism and a sense of national identity in citizens.
National Anthems gained prominence in the 18th century. For instance, the French National Anthem, written and composed by Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle during the French Revolution, celebrates French chivalry and revolutionary ideals. Similarly, the American National Anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” originated from a poem inspired by the War of 1812 victory. Anthems like these symbolize the values and spirit of the respective nations.
In the Nigerian context, the National Anthem was chosen through a selection process that resulted in a British expatriate submitting the winning lyrics. This decision sparked criticism, questioning the authenticity and independence of the anthem. Over the years, Nigeria has debated the choice of its National Anthem, with some advocating for a return to the original anthem for its perceived deeper meaning and connection to national identity.
The evolving nature of National Anthems reflects the changing values and aspirations of nations. In the case of Nigeria, the decision to revert to the old anthem signifies a desire to align with core values of service, commitment, and nation-building. The process of amending a National Anthem involves public consultation to ensure that the anthem resonates with the general populace, making it a symbol of national unity and pride.
The recent debate over the Nigerian National Anthem highlights the importance of maintaining symbols that reflect the nation’s ethos and aspirations. By revisiting and reflecting on the anthem, Nigeria can reaffirm its identity and unity as a nation.
The term ‘tribe’ has historically been used to describe Africans, Indians, and Native Americans, rather than peoples in similar situations in Europe and the United States. In “Things Fall Apart,” Chinua Achebe highlighted how colonial officers and European anthropologists often demeaned colonial peoples by referring to them as tribesmen. By examining the definitions provided by two respected English dictionaries, we can see the biased application of the term towards Africans, particularly Nigerians.
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a tribe is defined as “an aggregate of people in a primitive and barbarous condition,” while the Century Dictionary describes it as “a division of a barbarous race of people.” Retaining this terminology in the National Anthem would represent a significant act of self-denigration in the modern era. The colonial powers used the term ‘tribe’ to justify their actions and atrocities, creating a situation where colonial peoples were doubly oppressed and deprived of their right to independence. Accepting this language in the National Anthem implies that self-determination is a privilege rather than a fundamental right.
The use of the word ‘Though’ at the start of the third line of the anthem implies that the divisions based on ‘tribe and tongue’ present significant obstacles to unity, yet can be overcome by brotherhood. However, the reliance on brotherhood as a solution to tribal and linguistic differences is flawed, as the need for such a remedy suggests that brotherhood alone may not be sufficient to bridge these gaps. Furthermore, using the term ‘brotherhood’ in this context may be deemed sexist and should be reconsidered in such a crucial national symbol.
In conclusion, the swift restoration of the ‘original’ anthem highlights the National Assembly’s ability to promptly address issues. We urge the National Assembly to take similar decisive action in removing the offensive language in order to free all Nigerians from the shadow of colonialism in our National Anthem. It is crucial to recognize that colonialism persists in contemporary forms such as loans, grants, and military establishments. As Cecil Rhodes famously stated, ‘colonialism is philanthropy with 10 per cent,’ reminding us that not all seemingly benevolent acts are devoid of ulterior motives.
- Izevbaye, Emeritus Professor of English; Adeniran, Professor of Linguistics; and Ayoade, Emeritus Professor of Political Science, share their perspectives from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria