The Senate has approved the National Anthem Bill 2024, which aims to reinstate the former national anthem, “Nigeria, we hail thee.”
This bill swiftly went through its initial and subsequent readings and now awaits the President Bola Tinubu’s signature to become law.
The Senate passed a measure to replace the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with the former anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which was originally composed in 1960 when Nigeria gained independence. This change seeks to revive the anthem that was replaced in 1978 during Olusegun Obasanjo’s military regime.
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The lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” were penned by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate who lived in Nigeria during its independence, while Frances Berda composed the music. This anthem played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and unity during the 1960s and late 1970s.
During discussions on the bill, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele highlighted the anthem’s profound impact, stating, “It instilled deep patriotism among Nigerians when it was performed. Those who experienced that period recognize its pivotal role in our nation’s history, evoking nostalgia and cherished memories of our early years.”
Last week, the bill proposing Nigeria’s return to its former national anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” successfully passed its second reading in the Senate before being officially passed on Tuesday. The House of Representatives also approved the bill.
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Here are the lyrics of the former anthem
‘’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.”
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