Nigeria Reinstates Old National Anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”

LAGOS, NIGERIA – In a move that stirred both national pride and nostalgia, Nigeria’s House of Representatives and Senate have passed a bill to revert to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” The bill swiftly cleared its first, second, and third readings, marking a significant shift in the nation’s identity and a nod to its rich history.

The old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” was adopted in 1960, the year Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule. Composed by Frances Berda with lyrics by a British immigrant in Nigeria during its early independence, the anthem was replaced in 1978 by the current “Arise, O Compatriots.”

Sponsored by House Majority Leader Julius Ihonvbere and Senate Leader Bamidele Opeyemi, the bill received widespread support in both chambers. Proponents argue that the old anthem aligns with President Bola Tinubu‘s vision and fosters national unity. They believe it evokes more emotion and resonates with Nigerians’ aspirations.

“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” will now be a national symbol and sign of authority. All individuals and entities are required to respect and preserve its dignity. The anthem will be performed at Federal and State Executive Council meetings, legislative sittings, and constitutional oath-swearing ceremonies, among other occasions.

The Ministry of Information will oversee the standardization and official recording of the anthem. Primary and secondary schools will incorporate the lyrics into civic education, ensuring pupils and students learn the anthem. The second stanza of the old anthem will be designated as the national prayer.

The bill awaits the President’s assent, marking a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history. This change symbolizes more than just a switch of anthems; it reflects the nation’s ongoing journey towards unity, progress, and a shared national identity.

Nigerian Old National Anthem

Nigeria, we hail thee
Our own dear native land
Though tribes and tongues may differ
In brotherhood, we stand
Nigerians all are proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.
Our flag shall be a symbol
That truth and justice reign
In peace or battle, honor’d,
And this we count as gain,
To hand on to our children
A banner without stain.
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.

Nigerian Current National Anthem

Stanza I

Arise, O Compatriots
Nigeria’s call obey
To serve our fatherland
With love and, strength, and faith
The labor of our heroes past,
shall never be in vain
To serve with heart and might,
One nation bound in freedom, peace, and unity.

Stanza II

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.

Nigerian 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 honor and glory
So help me, God.