The Super Eagles of Nigeria made headlines on Monday by singing the old national anthem, “Arise O Compatriots,” before their match against Benin Republic in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
Despite the recent reinstatement of the old anthem “Nigeria We Hail Thee” by President Bola Tinubu on May 29, the players opted for the familiar tune as they took to the field. This move was observed by a PUNCH reporter, highlighting the team’s preference.
The National Anthem Bill 2024, signed into law by President Tinubu, officially reintroduced “Nigeria We Hail Thee,” as announced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a joint plenary session.
The bill swiftly passed through both the Senate and the House of Representatives, marking a significant change from the current anthem, “Arise O Compatriots.”
In the match lineup, Head coach Finidi George positioned Terem Moffi and Ademola Lookman at the forefront of the attack, with Victor Boniface starting on the bench.