On 23 May 2024, the National Assembly passed a bill to relinquish “Arise, O Compatriots” and readopt “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”. The bill was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu on 29 May 2024.
Nigeria, We Hail Thee” is the national anthem of Nigeria, with a rich history dating back to 1959. The lyrics were written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate, and the music was composed by Frances Benda, a pen name for Mrs. Charles Kernot, a private music teacher and professional pianist.
The Creation of the Anthem
A competition was held to select the music and lyrics of the anthem, and Williams’ lyrics and Benda’s composition were chosen by a panel of judges, including notable Nigerian musicians and educators. The song was first used upon Nigeria’s independence in 1960 and served as the national anthem until it was replaced by “Arise, O Compatriots” in 1978.
Readoption and Controversy
On May 23, 2024, the National Assembly passed a bill to readopt “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the national anthem, which was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2024. However, the anthem’s readoption has been met with controversy due to its association with the colonial government. Some notable Nigerians, including former Minister of Education Obiageli Ezekwesili, have expressed reservations about the anthem’s colonial legacy.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” are as follows:
- Oh, 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.
he readoption of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the national anthem marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s history. While the anthem’s colonial legacy has sparked controversy, its lyrics continue to inspire unity and patriotism among Nigerians. As the country moves forward, the national anthem will remain an important symbol of Nigerian identity and unity.
