- Kamil Opeyemi
Nigeria We Hail Thee’ was Nigeria’s old anthem which gave way to the current “Arise o Compatriot
The Upper Chamber of the National Assembly on Tuesday followed its lower chamber in passing a bill for the reintroduction of Nigeria’s old National anthem.
‘Nigeria We Hail Thee’ was Nigeria’s old anthem which gave way to the current “Arise o Compatriots!” The old anthem was composed when Nigeria gained independence in 1960. The bill seeks to revive the anthem that was dropped in 1978 during Olusegun Obasanjo’s military administration.
Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate who lived in Nigeria during its independence, penned the lyrics for “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” while Frances Berda composed the music. The anthem played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity and unity during the 1960s and late 1970s.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele spoke on the anthem’s impact: “Upon rendition, it inspired deep patriotism among Nigerians. Those who lived through that era recognise its crucial role in our nation’s history, evoking nostalgia and fond memories of our early years.” On Monday, the Senate began a public hearing on an Act to provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria and related matters.
Bamidele, who represented the President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio at the hearing, said the second stanza of the existing national anthem shall be the national prayer.
However, he said if considered necessary, further consultation would be had on the matter.
In his contribution, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, said the amendment should not come only by legislative fiat, but should be subjected to a wider consultation.