Lyrics of the New National Anthem
Nigeria’s original anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” was reinstated by President Bola Tinubu after signing the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law in May,2024.
A return to Nigeria’s early post-independence period is signified by the restoration of the old anthem, which was the nation’s national song from 1960 until 1978.
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate, and composed by Frances Berda.
Despite its initial role in shaping national identity, the anthem has faced many criticism by Nigerians, one of which include; because its composer was not Nigerian.
Nonetheless, Lawmakers overwhelmingly supported the recent legislative reform, which was led by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele of Ekiti Central.
Many Advocates argued that the original anthem promotes a stronger symbol of unity, peace, and prosperity compared to its successor, “Arise, O Compatriots.”
Here is the Lyrics of the new National Anthem Below
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.
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.
Of all issues facing the country, none could be look into except the reintroduction of a nation anthem the reminds us of our captivity in the hands of our colonial masters. It’s just pathetic.