The House of Representatives has passed a bill proposing the reinstatement of Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” replacing the current anthem, “Arise O Compatriots.”
Sponsored by House Leader Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, the bill quickly moved through its readings, was considered and approved by the Committee of the Whole, and passed its third reading on Thursday.
The bill, titled “Bill For An Act to Provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria, and for Matters Related Thereto,” stipulates that from its commencement, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” will be the official national anthem as outlined in the schedule to the proposed legislation.
As Nigerians react and prepare for the potential return of the old anthem at official gatherings, it is important to briefly reflect on the reasons it was originally discarded.
Why Was the Old National Anthem Discarded?
Upon gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1960, Nigeria adopted “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as its national anthem. The anthem symbolised the nation’s break from colonialism and expressed the initial hopes for unity and identity in a diverse country.
The lyrics, “Nigeria, we hail thee / Our own dear native land,” aimed to instill national pride and unity.
However, some critics felt that the anthem’s tone and phrasing lacked the emotional and cultural depth needed to truly resonate with the diverse Nigerian population.
Despite its respectful nature, the British-originated three-stanza anthem was seen as somewhat detached from the everyday experiences and rich cultures of Nigerians.
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was used from Independence Day on 1st October 1960 until 1978, 18 years after, when it was changed to “Arise, O Compatriots” under the military administration of General Olusegun Obasanjo to reflect Nigeria’s national identity and aspirations.
The lyrics for “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” were written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate living in Nigeria at the time of its independence, while the music for the anthem was composed by Frances Berda.
Full Lyrics for the Old Nigeria National Anthem:
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.