Presidency reacts to viral video of Tinubu, ministers reciting old national anthem

The Presidency has debunked a viral video showing President Bola Tinubu and members of the Federal Executive Council, FEC, reciting the old Nigerian national anthem.

The Presidency clarified that the footage is from a 2023/2024 FEC meeting and not a recent gathering.

Recall that a video had circulated online showing Tinubu and members of the FEC as well as ministers reciting the old national anthem.

This had sparked criticism with many Nigerians questioning why President Tinubu and his ministers were seen reciting the anthem despite the Federal Government’s reintroduction of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the country’s official national anthem on May 29, 2024.

Reacting to the viral video, the President’s Special Assistant on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, said the footage was an old video.

He said, “This video has Dr Iziaq Salako as the Hon Minister for State on Environment at the 0:22 minutes. He was later reassigned to the Ministry of Health in October 2024.

“It also listed the HM, Ministry of Niger Delta, a ministry that was dissolved in October 2024.

“The new national anthem became official on May 29th, 2024.

“Verdict: This video was from a 2023/2024 FEC meeting.

“We are unlucky to have these lots as the source of journalism in Nigeria when they keep working hard everyday to make a mess of the noble profession.”