The Senate has passed the National Anthem Bill 2024, aiming to reinstate the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” The bill, which swiftly cleared both first and second readings on Thursday, now awaits President Bola Tinubu’s signature to become law.
This legislation seeks to replace the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” with the anthem that was originally adopted when Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960. The old anthem was discontinued in 1978 during Olusegun Obasanjo’s military rule.
“Nigeria, We Hail Thee” features lyrics written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate who lived in Nigeria during its independence, with music composed by Frances Berda. The anthem played a significant role in fostering national identity and unity during the 1960s and 1970s.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele highlighted the anthem’s historical impact, stating, “When played, it inspired deep patriotism among Nigerians. Those who experienced that era recall its crucial role in our nation’s history, evoking nostalgia and fond memories of our early years.”
The Senate also began a public hearing on Monday regarding an Act to establish the National Anthem of Nigeria and related matters. Representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the hearing, Bamidele mentioned that the second stanza of the current national anthem would be designated as the national prayer, though further consultations may be necessary.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, emphasized that the amendment should involve broader consultation to reflect the will of all Nigerians. He supported the reversal but stressed the importance of a comprehensive process.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: House Approves Bill To Reinstate Previous National Anthem
Senior Advocate of Nigeria Mike Ozekhome noted a specific line from the old anthem addressing oppression, and supported the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency’s view that changing the anthem was overdue. Ozekhome recalled proposing this change a decade ago at the 2014 CONFAB, where it was widely supported.
The bill, which recently passed its second reading in the Senate, was subsequently approved by the House of Representatives. For the reinstatement of the old anthem to take effect, the bill must be harmonized by both chambers and receive the President’s approval.
Here are the lyrics to “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”:
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.
