Nigeria’s Old National Anthem Vs Nigeria’s New National Anthem

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.