Dr. Mohammad Kassim, leader of the Youths Association of Nigeria and Special Adviser to the Nasarawa Governor on political matters, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decision to revert to the old national anthem.
Kassim described this move as writing Tinubu’s name “in gold,” emphasizing that the previous anthem better reflects the country’s diversity and holds deeper meaning.
In a statement issued in Lafia, Kassim expressed the collective gratitude of the younger generation towards President Tinubu.
READ ALSO:FG Agency Gives Staff Three-Day To Learn New National Anthem
“On behalf of the younger generation coming behind, we sincerely appreciate the decision of Mr. President for reverting to the old National Anthem,” Kassim said.
“Indeed, the youths are happy with him for his sincere hope and meaningful plans for the next generation.”
Kassim highlighted the significance of the old anthem, noting that it resonates more deeply with the nation’s history and cultural diversity.
However, he proposed a slight modification to the final line of the anthem. “As leaders of tomorrow, we strongly appeal that the last sentence of the Anthem, ‘Nigeria may be blessed,’ be changed to either ‘Nigeria shall be blessed’ or ‘Nigeria must be blessed.’ That is our passionate appeal to Mr. President.”
READ ALSO: Just In: Suspended DCP Abba Kyari Released From Prison
He argued that the current wording, “Nigeria may be blessed,” provides only a conditional hope rather than an assured future for the country. “We should be certain about the future of our dear country,” Kassim stated.
In his statement, Kassim further urged President Tinubu to integrate the sentiments and values expressed in the anthem into his administration’s policies.
“We urge Mr. President to make adequate use of each stanza of the anthem in his renewed hope agenda for Nigerians,” he concluded.
READ ALSO:Nationwide Strike Looms as Labour Insist On New Minimum Wage
The decision to revert to the old national anthem has sparked discussions nationwide, with many citizens expressing their opinions on its impact on national unity and identity.
As the country moves forward, the sentiments expressed by Kassim and other youth leaders highlight the importance of preserving and promoting a sense of shared heritage and optimism for Nigeria’s future.