CurrentReport Blog Nollywood star Kate Henshaw has openly criticized the decision of the current administration to reinstate Nigeria’s old national anthem. The actress expressed her displeasure through a series of posts on her X handle, questioning the timing and necessity of such a change amidst the country’s severe economic and governance challenges.
President Bola Tinubu recently signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law, bringing back the old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which was used from 1960 to 1978. This decision has sparked a wave of reactions across the country, with many questioning its relevance to the current issues facing Nigeria.
Henshaw, known for her outspoken views, did not hold back in her critique. She particularly questioned how the anthem’s return would address the pressing issues of hardship and poor governance plaguing the nation. In her post, she wrote sarcastically: “In the midst of excoriating hardship & lack of good governance on every level but not to worry, going back to a colonial anthem will be a soothing balm and inject patriotism back into our veins, a much needed drug.”
The actress’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among Nigerians who are frustrated with the government’s focus on symbolic changes rather than substantive solutions. In another post, Henshaw poignantly remarked, “The labour of our heroes past… o ti lo [is gone],” suggesting that the sacrifices of past leaders are being undermined by current governance issues.
The reinstatement of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” has been met with mixed reactions. Proponents argue that the old anthem is a symbol of national pride and historical significance. However, critics like Henshaw believe that the move is a distraction from the urgent economic and social issues that need immediate attention.
