Nigeria’s New National Anthem

The 1960 national anthem of Nigeria, bestowed upon us by a British housewife, nostalgically referred to our country as “our sovereign motherland.” This imagery invoked a sense of maternal nurturing and protection. However, the current anthem, composed by a committee of Nigerian intellectuals, has shifted to a paternal metaphor, envisioning Nigeria as a father figure. This change in imagery, however, does not necessarily improve upon the original. In fact, it may have taken a step back in effectively capturing the essence of Nigeria.

Upon reflection, I have come to a profound realization: Nigeria is neither a mother nor a father. Instead, Nigeria is akin to a child. This child, our nation, is extraordinarily gifted, with talents that are vast and boundless. Nigeria is blessed with prodigious natural resources, a rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant, diverse population. The potential within this nation is immense, and the promise it holds is both inspiring and awe-inspiring.

Yet, despite these remarkable endowments, Nigeria is also incredibly wayward. Like a child brimming with potential yet struggling to find direction, our nation grapples with numerous challenges. There is a restlessness within Nigeria, a turbulence that often leads it astray. Political instability, corruption, and socio-economic inequalities are just a few of the issues that beset our country. These problems are not unlike the missteps and growing pains that a child might experience on the path to maturity.

Viewing Nigeria as a child rather than a parental figure shifts our perspective on the nation’s journey and our role within it. As citizens, we are not simply the offspring of a mother or fatherland, passively receiving guidance and protection. Instead, we are the caregivers, the mentors, the stewards of this young, burgeoning entity. It is our responsibility to nurture Nigeria, to guide it towards its full potential, and to help it navigate the complexities and challenges it faces.

This metaphor also highlights the need for patience, understanding, and a commitment to long-term development. Just as raising a child requires time, effort, and unwavering dedication, so too does the task of nation-building. There will be setbacks and obstacles, moments of frustration and disappointment, but also triumphs and achievements. Our role is to remain steadfast, to continue investing in the future of Nigeria, and to believe in the promise that lies within this gifted child.

Embracing this view can foster a deeper sense of collective responsibility and a more proactive approach to addressing the nation’s challenges. It encourages us to think critically about the kind of environment we are creating for Nigeria and to take concrete actions that will lead to sustainable growth and development. We must work towards a society where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive, where justice and equity prevail, and where the abundant talents and resources of our nation are harnessed for the greater good.

In conclusion, by reimagining Nigeria as a child, we acknowledge both its incredible potential and its current struggles. This perspective calls on us to step up as active participants in the nation’s growth, to nurture and guide it with wisdom and care. In doing so, we can help Nigeria realize the greatness that lies within and ensure that it blossoms into a thriving, prosperous nation.