In a significant legislative move, the Nigerian Senate has passed the National Anthem Bill 2024, aiming to revive the country’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” This bill, which swiftly passed its first and second readings on Thursday, is now pending the assent of President Bola Tinubu to be enacted into law.
The bill proposes replacing the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with the original anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” This anthem, which was first introduced when Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960, remained in use until it was replaced in 1978 during the military administration of Olusegun Obasanjo.
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” holds a cherished place in Nigeria’s history. The lyrics were penned by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate who lived in Nigeria during its early years of independence. The music was composed by Frances Berda. This anthem played a crucial role in fostering a sense of national identity and unity among Nigerians during the 1960s and late 1970s, a period marked by post-independence optimism and nation-building efforts.
The reinstatement of the old anthem has garnered significant support within the Senate. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele emphasized the anthem’s historical significance and its impact on national pride. He stated, “Upon rendition, it inspired deep patriotism among Nigerians. Those who lived through that era recognize its crucial role in our nation’s history, evoking nostalgia and fond memories of our early years.”
Bamidele further argued that the anthem fosters the spirit of unity and collective identity that is needed in contemporary Nigeria. “The lyrics speak to a vision of a united country where truth and justice prevail, and it is this vision we wish to revive and instill in the hearts of all Nigerians.”
The lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” are a reflection of the nation’s aspirations and values at the time of independence. They call for unity, justice, and national pride, themes that remain relevant today:
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.
With the Senate’s approval, the bill now awaits President Bola Tinubu’s signature to become law. If enacted, the reinstatement of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the national anthem is expected to evoke a sense of nostalgia among older generations and introduce a piece of the country’s rich history to younger Nigerians.
