Fulham and Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi, has admitted that he is yet to learn Nigeria’s reintroduced national anthem, Nigeria, We Hail Thee.
Iwobi made this known in a recent episode of the Is This Seat Taken? podcast, hosted by Nollywood actress Chinasa Anukam.
When asked if he had learned the new anthem, the Nigeria international responded, “No. When it comes on, I literally stand there and close my eyes.”
The anthem, originally written by Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances Berda, was Nigeria’s official national anthem until 1978, when it was replaced by Arise, O Compatriots.
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However, in May 2024, Chief Ahmed Bola Tinubu approved its reintroduction, sparking nationwide debate.
Some public figures, including activist Aisha Yesufu, have openly opposed the change, stating their refusal to sing Nigeria, We Hail Thee despite the government’s endorsement.
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