Earlier today, Nigeria officially reinstated its original national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” following the signing of the National Anthem Bill into law by President Bola Tinubu. The reinstatement marks a return to the country’s roots, as this anthem was first adopted at Nigeria’s independence in 1960.
The full lyrics of the original anthem, which will now replace “Arise, O Compatriots,” are as follows:
Nigeria, we hail thee,
Our own dear native land,
Though tribe and tongue may differ,
In brotherhood we stand,
Nigerians all, are 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.
The original anthem was replaced by the military government in 1978. However, after 46 years, the return of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” has been welcomed by many as a reaffirmation of national unity and pride.
The announcement of the President’s approval was made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a joint session of both chambers of the National Assembly. This session was part of the celebrations marking 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria.
Earlier in the day, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, urged lawmakers and visitors awaiting President Tinubu’s arrival to download the old national anthem, now officially reinstated. This move is seen as an effort to reacquaint the nation with its historical anthem.
The reinstatement of the original anthem has sparked discussions about national identity and heritage, with many Nigerians expressing nostalgia and a renewed sense of patriotism. The lyrics, emphasizing unity, justice, and service, resonate deeply with the current aspirations of the nation.
