By Habeeb Ibrahim
President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Anthem Bill 2024, reinstating the original national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”!
This iconic anthem, written by Lilian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda in 1959, was used from 1960 to 1978 and holds a special place in the hearts of many Nigerians.
The signing of this bill marks a significant shift away from the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots”, and back to the classic tune that resonated with Nigerians during the country’s early years.
Here are the full lyrics:
“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.”
