The national anthem of Nigeria is more than just a song; it is a potent symbol of the nation's identity, history, and aspirations. It plays a vital role in fostering unity, inspiring patriotism, educating citizens, and representing Nigeria on the global stage.
As the clock ticked towards 1960, Nigeria stood on the precipice of a monumental shift - its emancipation from British colonial rule. This was a time when our nation was more a line item in a colonial ledger than a free state. The country, once treated less as a nation and more as a commodity in an unholy alliance with the infamous Royal Niger Company, was gearing up to redefine its identity.
Our founding fathers had waged a long, arduous struggle not just against colonial domination but also against the indignity of having to pledge allegiance in compulsory renditions to a distant monarch with the anthem, “God Save the King.”
The Birth of "Nigeria, We Hail Thee"
In the wake of Nigeria’s independence on October 1, 1960, the need for a national anthem became paramount, signifying the birth of a new era. To solidify this newfound autonomy, a call was issued, inviting both Nigerians and international participants to pen a national anthem that would encapsulate the vision of the impending free and independent Nigeria.
The call for entries reproduced below, was a clarion call to articulate the collective aspirations and spirit of diversity of our soon-to-be sovereign nation:
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“COMPETITION FOR NATIONAL ANTHEM”
“The National Planning Committee for Independence is thrilled to announce a competition to select a National Anthem to commemorate the Federation of Nigeria’s independence on October 1, 1960. A prize of $280.00 will be awarded for a National Anthem that resonates with the spirit of a free Nigeria, standing proud among the nations of the world. We invite submissions of no more than three verses, each comprising six lines in English. This lyrical representation should capture the essence of our nation (the setting to music will be announced later). Please send your entries by March 31, 1959, to: Independence Celebrations Officer, c/o Ministry of Internal Affairs, Lagos.”
This call for entries drew a staggering response of over 1,000 entries, culminating in the selection of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as Nigeria’s inaugural anthem, penned by a British expatriate living in Nigeria, Lillian Jean Williams, with music by Frances Berda.
Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate, was commissioned to write the lyrics. Complementing Williams’ lyrical prowess was the musical ingenuity of Frances Berda, an accomplished musician of Hungarian descent. Berda’s composition skillfully intertwined traditional Nigerian melodies with Western musical elements, creating a harmonious blend reflective of the nation’s cultural mosaic.
As the anthem echoed through the celebrations on October 1, 1960, it marked a fitting tribute to the aspirations of our nation and reflected the broad diversity of the various nations that made up the New Nigeria. Unity was its key message.
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In 2024, Tolu Ogunlesi identified that Benda was a pen name for Mrs Charles Kernot, a private music teacher and professional pianist at the Carol Hill School of Classical Ballet in London. Her composition was chosen by judges including Professor Fela Sowande, O. Omideyi, Thomas King Ekundayo Phillips, Wilberforce Echezona, M.C.
The lyrics of Nigeria’s first national anthem reflected themes of unity, peace, and progress. Lines like “Nigeria, we hail thee, Our own dear native land” and “Though tribe and tongue may differ, In brotherhood we stand” encapsulated the nation’s aspirations for harmony amidst diversity.
The Nigerian flag, a symbol of national identity and unity.
The Adoption of "Arise, O Compatriots"
However, the years that followed brought with them trials that tested the nation’s resolve: a military coup in 1966, a subsequent civil war, and the onset of an oil boom that reshaped the economic landscape. By the late 1970s, amid the throes of change and under the leadership of then former dictator and military Head of State, General Olusegun Obasanjo (who was part of the military coup that brought Gen Murtala Mohammed into power before his demise in a failed coup that saw Obasanjo become head of state), a new anthem was sought to reflect what they believed was a maturing nation’s identity.
In 1978, as Nigeria underwent political changes, a decision was made to adopt a new national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” composed by the Nigerian Police Band under the directorship of Benedict E. Odiase.
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This led to another anthem competition, to reflect the nationalistic fervor of the time, resulting in “Arise, O Compatriots,” adopted in 1978 and penned by a quintet of Nigerian writers - John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B. A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui and P. O. Aderibigbe. The music was created by the Nigerian Police Band directed by B. E. Odiasse.
The lyric was a combination of words and phrases taken from five of the entries in a national contest. The names of these writers were: John A. Illechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B. A. Ogunaike, Sota Omoigui, P. O.
The Nigerian national anthem has a deep-rooted history that stretches back to 1960, when the country gained independence from British colonial rule. Prior to independence, Nigeria's official song was "God Save the Queen," like in other British colonies. The country's people used to sing the British anthem at all official or essential events.
This popular song was incredibly touching and served as a national symbol for many years, from 1960 until 1978, to be specific. However, the federal government eventually abandoned it since it was composed by a British native and highlighted differences.
This prompted the Federal Government to invite Nigerians to submit lyrics for a new national anthem as part of an open competition. There were precisely 1,449 submissions, and the committee selected five finalists, namely Eme Etim Akpan, Sota Omoigui, P. O. Aderibigbe, B. A. Ogunnaike, and John A. Ilechukwu, who were all rewarded for their creative work.
The committee combined the lyrics to the Nigerian national song from these five lyricists into a single tune, which was handed to Benedict Elide Odiase, who, with the help of Professor Akin Euba, composed it. The Nigerian Police Band then put the words to the anthem to music, and the first time Nigerians sang this new anthem, Arise, O Compatriots, was on October 1, 1978.
Lyrics of "Arise, O Compatriots"
Arise, O compatriots,
Nigeria’s call obey,
To serve our fatherland
With love and strength and faith.
The labour of our heroes past
Shall never be in vain,
To serve with heart and might,
One nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.
Oh God of creation,
Direct our noble cause,
Guide our leaders right,
Help our youth the truth to know,
In love and honesty to grow
And living just and true,
Great lofty heights attain,
To build a nation where peace
And justice shall reign.
The Meaning Behind "Arise, O Compatriots"
The Nigerian national anthem, Arise, O Compatriots, reflects the country's essential values, beliefs, and aspirations while also displaying its cultural heritage, unity, and pride. It reflects the spirit of unity, resilience, and a sense of belonging among Nigerians.
The national song also discusses the past, including the battles of national heroes before independence. It also discusses the youth's responsibility to build a nation where peace and justice shall reign and to live a life of love and honesty.
The second stanza is typically performed in serious settings, such as churches or mosques. In 2012, the Federal Executive Council chose the second stanza as the official national prayer. It was intended to replace the Christian and Muslim prayers that Nigerians frequently recite separately at public occasions and gatherings.
History of Nigeria’s National Anthem Thriller
The Proposal to Revert to "Nigeria, We Hail Thee"
Years of political tumult continued until Nigeria returned to civilian rule in 1999, with reformed President Obasanjo (now a civilian) at the helm. The turn of the millennium saw calls from across the country for restructuring, a topic that Obasanjo largely sidestepped, focusing instead on other reforms.
It wasn’t until 2014 under President Goodluck Jonathan that a National confab was convened, bringing together 492 Nigerians to a National Conference inaugurated on March 17, 2014 which was somewhat representative. I say somewhat because, some strongly believe President Jonathan only decided to convene the national confab to earn sympathy points for his then re-election bid which he still lost to President Buhari in 2015.
During this conference with retired Chief Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi as Chairman, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi as Vice Chair and. Dr Valerie Azinge as Secretary, one poignant resolution from this conference amongst others was to revert to the old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” seen as a true reflection of Nigeria’s foundational values.
This idea recently gained legislative traction, and as of May 29, 2024, the switch back was officially enacted - 25 years post the establishment of uninterrupted civilian governance.
On 23 May 2024, the National Assembly passed a bill to relinquish "Arise, O Compatriots" and readopt "Nigeria, We Hail Thee".
"Nigeria, We Hail Thee," Nigeria's first national anthem.
The Significance of Reverting to the Old Anthem
Bringing back “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” holds profound implications for national unity and brand repositioning. The anthem’s lyrics celebrate Nigeria’s diversity while emphasizing the common bonds that unite its citizens.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has recognized the importance of reclaiming Nigeria’s heritage and fostering a sense of unity among its populace.
The recent proposal by the House of Representatives to revert to Nigeria's old national anthem, "Nigeria We Hail Thee," has sparked considerable discussion about its historical, cultural, and social significance.
The old anthem represents Nigeria's initial years of independence, a time filled with optimism and unity. "Nigeria We Hail Thee" emphasizes the unity and brotherhood of Nigerians despite their diverse ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. Given Nigeria's significant ethnic diversity, the anthem's message of unity in diversity is particularly poignant.
The lyrics of the old anthem are imbued with themes of service, justice, and peace. These values are crucial for inspiring patriotism and national pride. Reintroducing the old anthem can serve as an educational tool, bridging the gap between generations.
The Role of the National Anthem
The national anthem plays a crucial role in uniting Nigeria's diverse ethnic groups under a common identity. It emphasizes shared values and goals, promoting a sense of belonging among all Nigerians regardless of their background.
By singing the national anthem, Nigerians participate in a ritual that connects them with their history and culture. The anthem is a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by past generations for independence and nation-building. The national anthem commemorates Nigeria's independence, reminding citizens of the struggles and achievements of the past.
The anthem's lyrics inspire patriotism and national pride, motivating citizens to contribute positively to the country's development.
Often taught in schools and sung at public events, the national anthem serves as a tool for civic education, instilling values such as loyalty, responsibility, and respect for the country.
The Nigerian national anthem underscores cultural significance by encapsulating the nation's diverse heritage and collective values, promoting a shared cultural identity and pride among its citizens.
The Nigerian national anthem promotes national values by emphasizing themes of patriotism, loyalty, and service to the nation, encouraging citizens to embody these principles in their daily lives.
Challenges and Criticisms
This proposal is not without potential challenges. Critics might argue that simply reverting to an old anthem cannot address the deeper, systemic issues Nigeria faces today. Moreover, the current anthem, "Arise, O Compatriots," adopted in 1978, also holds significant importance and is familiar to many Nigerians who have grown up with it.
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