The Nigerian Senate has approved the National Anthem Bill 2024, which aims to revert to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, we hail thee.”
The bill, which swiftly passed first and second readings on Thursday, now awaits President Bola Tinubu’s assent to become law.
The legislation seeks to replace the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with the old anthem, composed when Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960. The old anthem was dropped in 1978 during Olusegun Obasanjo’s military administration.
Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate residing in Nigeria during its independence, penned the lyrics for “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” while Frances Berda composed the music. The anthem played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and unity during the 1960s and late 1970s.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele emphasized the anthem’s impact, stating, “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.”
In a public hearing on an Act to provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria and related matters, Senate representatives indicated that the second stanza of the existing national anthem would become the national prayer. However, further consultations may be conducted if necessary.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, stressed that the reversal should not only come through legislative fiat but should undergo a broader consultation process to reflect the wishes of all Nigerians accurately.
Meanwhile, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome, supported the change, recalling his proposal to change the anthem ten years ago during the 2014 CONFAB. He noted that the present Nigerian flag lacks inspiration compared to flags of other countries like the US and South Africa.
The bill passed through the House of Representatives and will need harmonization between the two chambers before receiving the President’s approval to take effect.
Here are the lyrics to “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”:
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 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.
