The Nigeria national anthem is an official song sung at governmental events and in schools. During my school years, we sang the national anthem daily on the assembly ground. Most of us didn’t fully understand its significance to our country at that time. One thing was common to all of us: we stood at attention while singing the anthem. We sang “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which has now been replaced by “Arise, O Compatriots.
One important occasion when the national anthem is prioritized is during Nigeria’s Independence Day (October 1) celebration. After prayers, the anthem is sung to open the event before anything else begins. But, did you know that Nigeria’s national anthem has been changed twice in history? If you didn’t know, the answer is yes. This publication explores Nigeria’s first (old) and second (new) anthems, providing lyrics, writers names, and the national pledge.
The Old Anthem: Nigeria, We Hail Thee Lyrics
Stanza | Lyrics |
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1 | Nigeria, we hail thee, Our own dear native land, Though tribe and tongue may differ, In brotherhood we stand. Nigerians all, Are proud to serve our sovereign Motherland. |
2 | Our flag shall be a symbol That truth and justice reign, In peace or battle honoured, And this we count as gain, To hand on to our children A banner without stain. |
3 | O God of all creation, Grant this our one request: Help us to build a nation Where no man is oppressed, And so with peace and plenty Nigeria may be blessed. |
Who Composed The Old Nigerian National Anthem?
The lyrics of the first Nigerian national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” were composed by a British woman who lived in Nigeria during the independence era. Lillian Jean Williams wrote the lyrics in 1959, while Frances Brenda composed the music. The anthem was first adopted on October 1, 1960, during Nigeria’s independence celebration. Importantly, the first Nigerian anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” has three stanzas.
Why Was “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” Replaced In 1978?
After 17 years of its adopting the Nigeria, We Hail Thee, it was replaced on October 1, 1978, by “Arise, O Compatriots,”. Because it did not fully capture the nation’s post-independence vision, unity, and patriotism. This was due to tensions faced in the country, such as ethnic divisions and political instability, which led to the Civil War.
Additionally, the criticism faced by “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” prompted the government to call for a new anthem that would better reflect the country’s national interests and promote unity among its various ethnic groups. This led to the creation of new Nigerian national anthem “Arise, O Compatriots,” which is believed to inspire pride and encourage national unity.
The New Anthem: Arise, O Compatriots Lyrics
Stanza | Lyrics |
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1 | Arise, O Compatriots, Nigeria’s call obey, To serve our fatherland With love and strength and faith, The labour of our heroes past Shall never be in vain, To serve with heart and might, One nation bound in freedom, peace, and unity. |
2 | Oh God of creation, Direct our noble cause, Guide thou our leaders right, Help our youth the truth to know, In love and honesty to grow, And living just and true, Great lofty heights attain, To build a nation where peace and justice shall reign. |
Who Wrote The New National Anthem Of Nigeria?
The second Nigerian national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” was adopted in 1978, replacing the lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” It was co-written by five Nigerians in the same year: John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B.A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui, and P.O. Aderibigbe. The music was composed by Pa Benedict Odiase, who was the music director of the Nigerian Police Band. “Arise, O Compatriots” has two stanzas, and both are sung before the Nigerian Pledge is recited.
Why Was “Arise, O Compatriots” Preferred In 1978?
The Nigerian government believed “Arise, O Compatriots” reflects a core message of patriotism and service to the nation. It emphasizes love and unity, ensuring that the labor of forefathers is not in vain. The anthem encourages Nigerians to work together, protecting their legacy and building the nation in peace.
Why Was “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” Readopted After 47 Years?
A lot of people have raised eyebrows over the decision to drop “Arise, O Compatriots,” an anthem that better captures the nation’s values, in favor of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” Critics argue that this move was a misplacement of priorities by the Nigerian government, especially at a time when the country needed healing from a crashing economy, high inflation resulting from fuel hikes, and the devaluation of the naira. Although the reason for the adoption is not entirely clear, May 29, 2024, marked the second time Nigeria’s national anthem was changed. The National Assembly passed a bill, which was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, to replace “Arise, O Compatriots” with “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”
The National Pledge
I pledge to Nigeria, my country, To be faithful, loyal, and honest, To serve Nigeria with all my strength, To defend her unity and uphold her honour and glory, So help me, God. |
Who Wrote The National Pledge?
The lyrics of the Nigerian national pledge were written in 1976 by a Yoruba woman named Felicia Adebola Adeyoyin. This pledge is recited immediately after the national anthem is sung. It symbolizes the citizens’ allegiance to Nigeria.
What Is The School Of Thought On Adults Learning The Old National Anthem?
Sincerely, as adults, it might be challenging to unlearn the new anthem and learn the “We Hail Thee” anthem. Many of us who were privileged to have learned “Arise, O Compatriots” during our early school days may find it difficult to suddenly adjust to unfamiliar lyrics. This process may require dedication and time to master.
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