The lyrics of Nigeria’s old National Anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”
“From 1960 to 1978, Nigeria’s old National Anthem, ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’, resonated across the nation, symbolizing unity and patriotism. Written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate, and composed by Frances Benda, a Nigerian musician, this anthem echoed the hopes and aspirations of a newly independent Nigeria.
Although replaced in 1978 by the current anthem, ‘Arise, O Compatriots’, the nostalgic significance of ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ remains, evoking memories of a nation’s formative years and the ideals that shaped its foundation. Here are the lyrics to this historic anthem, a testament to Nigeria’s rich heritage and the spirit of its people.
Nigeria’s old National Anthem “Nigeria We Hail Thee.
Nigeria We Hail Thee
– Nigeria, we hail thee
– Our own dear native land
– Though tribes 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, honor’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.
Nigeria, We Hail Thee: Reps pass Bill to revert to old national anthem
The old national anthem was used from independence in 1960 until 1978 when the present anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” was adopted.
