The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill to revert to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, which was composed when the country gained independence in 1960.
The bill sailed through first and second readings on Thursday, paving the way for the President’s assent.
The old national anthem dropped in 1978, will replace the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots”. The lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” were penned by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams, with music composed by Frances Berda.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele emphasized the anthem’s impact, saying it inspired deep patriotism among Nigerians and played a significant role in shaping the country’s national identity and unity during the 1960s and late 1970s.
The bill was passed after a public hearing on Monday, with contributions from the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome.
For the change to take effect, the bill will need to be harmonized by the two chambers and receive the President’s nod.
The lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” are:
“Nigeria, we hail thee,
Our 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 honoured,
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.”
