REVERSAL TO NIGERIA’S OLD NATIONAL ANTHEM: A SYMBOL OF SUPERSTITION AND UNPROFESSIONALISM IN GOVERNANCE

Abstract

This article explores the recent reversal to the Nigeria’s old national anthem, examining it as a reflection of underlying superstitions and unprofessionalism in the country’s governance. By delving into the historical context and symbolic significance of national anthems, the paper argues that such a move indicates a reliance on nostalgia and myth rather than evidence-based policy-making. The reversal is critiqued as a diversion from addressing pressing socio-economic issues, highlighting the tendency of the incumbent Nigerian government to resort to symbolic gestures instead of implementing substantive reforms. This study underscores the need for a more rational and professional approach to governance that prioritizes practical solutions over sentimental and superstitious actions. The study exploits Policy Analysis Theory to review its subject matter; positing a structural approach to leveraging its proposals in enacting capacity-based cum result oriented national policies. The gathered data for this study were qualitatively analyzed via historical and phenomenological approaches. This study equally utilized both primary and secondary methods of data collection. Ultimately, this study counsels that the Nigerian government should prioritize on legislating bills that are based and focused on empirical evidence; serves national interest; addresses pressing national challenges; and captures cultural relevance rather than superstitions or nostalgia.