How to sing old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as Reps seek it’s return | read more
A bill proposing a return to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” on Thursday, May 23, 2024 passed for a second reading on the floor of the House of Representatives.
In leading the debate on the general principles of the bill, the sponsor, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, emphasised the importance of patriotism and nationalism as the foundation for his proposal.
Hon. Julius Ihonvbere is the Majority leader in the House of Representatives and member representing Owan West/East Federal Constituency of Edo state.
The “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” anthem was used from 1960 when Nigeria gained independence, until it was replaced by “Arise, O Compatriots” in 1978.
Lilian Jean Williams wrote the lyrics for Nigeria’s previous national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” in 1959, while Frances Berda composed the music for the anthem during the same year.
The anthem reads;
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.
