On Monday, the Super Eagles of Nigeria sang the old national anthem, “Arise O’ Compatriots,” before their World Cup qualifier match against Benin Republic; this left many people online puzzled and questioning why this happened.
The old anthem was played by the hosts, Benin Republic, which made some social media users think that Benin might not know Nigeria has changed its national anthem.
Beyond Boders recalls that President Bola Tinubu signed a new law on May 29, 2024, bringing back the old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” as the official national anthem.
In the game, Coach Finidi George made three changes to the starting lineup, while Stanley Nwabali remained as the goalkeeper.
The defense consisted of Tanimu Benjamin, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Raphael Onyedika replaced Fisayo-Dele Bashiru in midfield, joining Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi.
In attack, Terrem Moffi took the place of Paul Onuachu, Samuel Chukwueze replaced Kelechi Iheanacho, and Ademola Lookman kept his spot in the lineup.
Watch video below:
The Super Eagles recite the old national anthem in a match against Benin Republic
— Pulse Nigeria (@PulseNigeria247) June 10, 2024
See reactions below:
igbalaghemmanue: “Omoh this is really serious matter ooo I’m just wondering what the president will do”
iStanleyObiora: “Should they’ve sang the one they haven’t memorised? Omo!”
amamdi: “Lol. No wonder they lost. They should have moved with the voodoo of the times.”
akhmedadekunle: “And them collect ologuro”
femifex: “Na why dem zuzu”
ArachieT: “B4 nko?”
