Esteemed Nollywood actor Chinwetalu Agu has voiced his disapproval of the Federal Government's decision to revert to the old national anthem, labeling it a misallocation of priorities.

Agu questioned the impact of this change on the pressing issue of the soaring cost of living, particularly the prices of essential food items.

In a video released by Voice of the East, Agu performed both the previous anthem, "Arise, O Compatriot," and the reinstated anthem, "Nigeria, We Hail Thee."

He then questioned the relevance of this change to the economic challenges faced by Nigerians, asking, "What does changing the national anthem have to do with the rising cost of rice, fuel, garri, or yams?"

Agu humorously remarked that the national anthem has become a form of palliative, suggesting that the government is out of touch with the people's needs.

“National anthem is now a palliative, Nigeria na better cruise.

“The small national anthem we dey manage, e reach your turn, you change am, why?” he asked.

Highlighting the severity of the situation, Agu emphasized that while citizens are struggling to survive, the government's focus seems to be on changing the national anthem, a move he finds inconsequential.

"Can we eat the national anthem?" Agu asked rhetorically, expressing the frustration of many.

President Bola Tinubu, on May 29, 2024, gave his final assent to the bill that reinstates "Nigeria, We Hail Thee" as the national anthem, moving away from the currently recognized "Arise O Compatriots."

The bill swiftly passed through both the Senate and the House of Representatives.