ICYMI - Full lyrics of new national anthem ‘Nigeria, We Hail thee’

In a historic legislative move, President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law, officially restoring Nigeria’s original national anthem, Nigeria, We Hail Thee. This significant development was announced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a joint session of the National Assembly, marking a return to the anthem that served the country from independence in 1960 until 1978.

The decision to reinstate the anthem reflects a shift towards embracing Nigeria’s early post-independence identity. The restored anthem was originally written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate, and composed by Frances Berda. Despite its initial significance in shaping national pride, it was replaced in 1978 under a military regime by Arise, O Compatriots, partly due to concerns that its composers were not Nigerian.

A Move to Strengthen National Unity

The push to bring back Nigeria, We Hail Thee was championed by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central) and received overwhelming support from lawmakers. Proponents of the bill argued that the original anthem carries a deeper sense of unity, peace, and patriotism compared to its successor.

During debates on the bill, legislators emphasized that Arise, O Compatriots was composed during a period of military rule and lacked the foundational national values, ethics, and cultural heritage embedded in the independence-era anthem. Many lawmakers expressed the view that the restored anthem better represents Nigeria’s aspirations and national ideals.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while announcing the new law, underscored its importance, stating that it reflects a renewed commitment to national identity and unity. He noted that the reinstated anthem embodies the dreams of Nigeria’s founding fathers, who envisioned a nation built on justice, peace, and prosperity.

Public Reactions and Historical Significance

The reinstatement of Nigeria, We Hail Thee has sparked varied reactions among Nigerians. Some citizens have welcomed the change, viewing it as a return to the country’s roots and a symbol of national rebirth. Others, however, have questioned the necessity of the move, arguing that efforts should be focused on addressing pressing national challenges such as insecurity, economic instability, and governance reforms.

Historically, the independence anthem played a crucial role in fostering national pride in the early years of Nigeria’s sovereignty. Its lyrics emphasize unity in diversity, justice, and the collective duty of Nigerians to uphold their country’s honor. Supporters of the legislative change believe that reinstating the anthem will help reignite patriotism and encourage a renewed sense of national purpose.

Lyrics of the Restored National Anthem

The full 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.

The Path Forward

With the enactment of the National Anthem Bill 2024, Nigeria embarks on a new chapter that revisits its foundational ideals. The government is expected to begin the formal transition process, ensuring that the restored anthem is widely adopted in official ceremonies, schools, and public events.

While the debate over the necessity of this change continues, one thing is clear—the return of Nigeria, We Hail Thee symbolizes an effort to reconnect with the nation's early vision of unity, peace, and national pride. As the country moves forward under this renewed anthem, time will tell how deeply it resonates with Nigerians in the modern era.