The Super Eagles of Nigeria have sparked mixed reactions as they recited the ‘Arise O Compatriot’ anthem as opposed to the newly signed ‘Nigeria We Hail Thee’ at an ongoing clash against Benin Republic in the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
Recall that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on May 29, signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law.
The bill reinstated the old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”
This was disclosed by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during the joint plenary that Tinubu attended.
The final assent to the passage of the bill will bring about a shift from the now-recognised, “Arise O Compatriots.” The bill was rapidly cleared by both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The new anthem was expected to be recited at all public functions.
However, at the commencement of the ongoing match in Benin, the players sang the former anthem, now deemed as the “old anthem.”
This has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians, especially those on social media. While many said the old anthem was recited because many of the players are yet to be familiar with the lyrics, others said the technical team at the Benin stadium might be unaware that the Nigerian anthem has been changed.
Meanwhile, Coach Finidi George has made three changes to the starting lineup of the Super Eagles facing Benin Republic.
Stanley Nwabali retains his position in goal for the team.
Tanimu Benjamin, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Bright Osayi-Samuel make up the back four.
While Raphael Onyedika replaces Fisayo-Dele Bashiru with Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi to pair him.
In attack, Terrem Moffi takes the place of Paul Onuachu, Samuel Chukwueze replaces Kelechi Iheanacho while Ademola Lookman keeps his place in the starting eleven.
They played the Old National anthem for super Eagles players.😭😭😭#SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/onvpXkrc77
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) June 10, 2024
