Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” was used from 1960 to 1978. It was written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate, and composed by Frances Berda. In 1978, the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” was adopted.
It resulted from a national competition and the lyrics were composed by John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B.A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui, and P.O. the Nigerian Police composed the music Band under Benedict E. Odiase’s direction. The transition from the old to the new anthem marked a significant moment in Nigeria’s history, representing a renewed national identity and pride.
Old National Anthem: “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”
Nigeria, we hail thee
Our dear native land
Though tribe and tongue 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.
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New National Anthem: “Arise, O Compatriots”
Arise, O compatriots,
Nigeria’s call to obey
To serve our fatherland
With love, 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.
Oh God of creation,
Direct our noble cause
Guide 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.
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