In what has been described by the National Assembly, as a move to revive Nigeria’s historical and cultural heritage, the Senate has passed the National Anthem Bill 2024, paving the way for the nation to revert to its old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” The bill passed its first and second readings on Thursday and now awaits assent into law by President Bola Tinubu.
The decision to swap the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with the iconic “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” is rooted in the country’s rich history and the anthem’s significance in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and unity during the 1960s and late 1970s.
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was composed when Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960, with lyrics penned by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams, who lived in Nigeria during its independence, and music composed by Frances Berda. The anthem played a crucial role in fostering patriotism and national pride during those formative years.
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However, in 1978, during Olusegun Obasanjo’s military administration, the old national anthem was dropped, and “Arise, O Compatriots” was adopted as the new national anthem. The change was part of a broader effort to promote a sense of national unity and identity in the aftermath of the Biafran War.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele emphasized the profound impact of the old anthem, stating, “Upon rendition, it inspired deep patriotism among Nigerians. Those who lived through that era recognize its crucial role in our nation’s history, evoking nostalgia and fond memories of our early years.”
The decision to revert to “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” carries significant symbolic value, particularly in the context of the current political landscape and the need for national unity. Many Nigerians have expressed a desire to reclaim the country’s historical and cultural roots, and the old national anthem is seen as a powerful symbol of that heritage.
The move also comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with various challenges, including ethnic tensions, insecurity, and economic difficulties. By embracing the old national anthem, the government hopes to foster a sense of unity, brotherhood, and pride among its diverse peoples, as reflected in the lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”
The decision to revert to the old national anthem follows a public hearing held by the Senate on Monday to discuss an Act to provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria and related matters. During the hearing, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, highlighted the importance of involving wider consultation in the amendment process, ensuring that the reversal reflects the collective wishes of all Nigerians.
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Last week, the House of Representatives also passed the bill, paving the way for the two chambers to harmonize the legislation and obtain the President’s assent for the return to the old national anthem to take effect.
The lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” are as follows:
“Nigeria, we hail thee,
Our own dear native land,
Though tribe and tongue may differ,
In brotherhood, we stand,
Nigerians all, and proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.
Our flag shall be a symbol
That truth and justice reign,
In peace or battle honour’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.”
