Nigerians to start singing Old National Anthem “Nigeria We Hail Thee” as bill pass third reading

 The House of Representatives has passed a bill to reintroduce Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” 

This decision was made during Thursday’s plenary, where the bill underwent first, second, and third readings in a single session, signaling strong bipartisan support.

The original anthem, composed by Frances Berda and adopted in 1960, holds nostalgic significance for many Nigerians. 

It was replaced in 1978 by the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” which has been in use since. Advocates for the change argue that “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” embodies a historical essence and patriotism reflective of the nation’s post-independence era.

The (third stanza) Old Nigerian National Anthem reads:

 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 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.

Proponents believe that reinstating the old anthem could foster a renewed sense of national pride and unity, especially in these challenging times. 

Critics, however, question the necessity and timing of such a change, suggesting that legislative efforts should prioritize pressing socio-economic issues.

As the bill now awaits Senate approval, the country watches closely, pondering the cultural and political implications of reverting to an anthem that once echoed the hopes and aspirations of a newly independent Nigeria.