The National Anthem of Nigeria
Nigeria, We Hail Thee is the national anthem of Nigeria, officially reinstated in May 2024 to replace the previous anthem, Arise, O Compatriots.
Quick Facts
- Current Anthem
- Nigeria, We Hail Thee
- Adopted
- October 1, 1960 (Original); May 29, 2024 (Reinstated)
- Lyrics Author
- Lillian Jean Williams
- Music Composer
- Frances Berda
- Former Anthem
- Arise, O Compatriots (1978–2024)
- Legislative Basis
- National Anthem Act 2024
The Words
Nigeria, we hail thee Our own dear native land Though tribes and tongues may differ In brotherhood, we stand Nigerians all, are proud to serve Our sovereign Motherland.
Historical Origins and Independence
The anthem 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee' was first introduced on October 1, 1960, to mark Nigeria's independence from British colonial rule. The lyrics were written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate residing in Nigeria at the time, while the music was composed by Frances Berda. This anthem was selected through a competition and served as the country’s primary national symbol during the First Republic. It emphasizes the diversity of the nation and the shared commitment to building a sovereign state where 'truth and justice reign.' The anthem remained in use until 1978, when it was replaced by a more indigenous composition.
The Era of Arise, O Compatriots
In 1978, under the military administration of General Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigeria transitioned to a new anthem titled 'Arise, O Compatriots.' The lyrics were a compilation of the best entries from a national contest, contributed by John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B. A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui, and P. O. Aderibigbe. The music was composed by the Nigerian Police Band under the direction of Benedict Odiase. For forty-six years, this version was the standard, calling on citizens to serve their fatherland with love and strength. It became deeply embedded in the national consciousness through its use in schools, government functions, and sporting events.
2024 Reinstatement and Significance
On May 29, 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the National Anthem Bill into law, officially reinstating 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee' as the national anthem. This legislative move followed a rapid passage through the Senate and the House of Representatives, aimed at reconnecting the country with its foundational symbols. Supporters of the change argued that the original anthem carries a more profound sense of patriotism and aspiration for the nation's future. While the transition sparked public debate regarding the colonial origins of the lyrics, the government maintains that the reinstatement fosters national unity. The change requires all public institutions and citizens to adopt the older lyrics and melody in official capacities.
Key Works / Related Items
- Nigeria, We Hail Thee (1960; 2024)
- Arise, O Compatriots (1978)
- National Anthem Act 2024
Related
Nigerian Television Authority
The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) is a state-owned national television broadcaster and one of the largest state television networks in Africa, regularly carrying government announcements and official events since 1977.
The Nigerian Coat of Arms
The Nigerian Coat of Arms is a heraldic symbol representing the nation's unity, fertile soil, and the confluence of its two major rivers, adopted in 1960.
The Nigerian Flag
The national flag of Nigeria, a vertical triband of green, white, and green, was designed by Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi and officially hoisted on October 1, 1960.