INTRODUCTION
Celebrating Nigeria at 65 years of independence (1960–2025), the country stands at a moment of reflection. Six and a half decades after breaking free from colonial rule, Nigerians are rethinking what it means to belong, to remember, and to express unity through shared symbols.
National symbols like the flag, coat of arms, and anthem play a central role in building patriotism, fostering unity, and shaping a sense of shared purpose. They remind Nigerians of their collective struggles and future aspirations.
It is within this context that the evolution of Nigeria’s national anthem carries added significance. The first anthem, ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ (1960–1978), was written by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams. It was later replaced by ‘Arise, O Compatriots’ (1978–2024), composed by a team of Nigerians and performed by the Nigerian Police Band under Benedict Odiase. Each anthem reflected the political mood and cultural debates of its time.
The First National Anthem (1960–1978)
The lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” were written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate in Nigeria at the time of independence, while the music was composed by another expatriate Frances Berda. This foreign authorship later became one of the most debated aspects of the anthem, but in 1960, the song carried deep emotional weight as Nigerians stepped into nationhood.
The anthem’s message focused on unity, love of country, and faith in Nigeria’s future. Its lyrics called on citizens to be faithful, loyal, and true, stressing togetherness across diverse ethnic and cultural groups. The tone was solemn and formal, reflecting the British hymn-like style in which it was written. Critics would eventually argue that this gave it a colonial feel, both in words and in form.
Still, for millions of Nigerians in 1960, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was a source of pride and optimism. Sung at independence ceremonies, international events, and in schools, it quickly became a unifying symbol for a young nation finding its identity.
The Shift to “Arise, O Compatriots” (1978–2024)
By the late 1970s, Nigeria had changed after civil war, oil wealth, years of military rule, and a fast shifting political foundation. As a result, the first national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, came under growing criticism despite carrying optimism at independence.
In 1978, the Federal Military Government under General Olusegun Obasanjo responded by launching a national contest for new lyrics.
The final text emerged from submissions by five Nigerians, P. O. Aderibigbe, John A. Ilechukwu, Dr. Sota Omoigui, Eme Etim Akpan, and B.A. Ogunnaike, while the music was arranged by the Nigerian Police Band, directed by Benedict Odiase. This process ensured the anthem was authentically Nigerian in both words and composition.
The Return of the First Anthem
On May 29, 2024, Nigeria made a historic decision by reinstating its original national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”. President Bola Tinubu signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law, officially reintroducing the anthem that was first adopted in 1960 and replaced in 1978. The announcement was made during a joint session of the National Assembly, marking the Silver Jubilee of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and coinciding with the first anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration.
The reintroduction of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” sparked debate. Critics, including former education minister Oby Ezekwesili and activist Aisha Yesufu, expressed concerns over the anthem’s colonial origins and the lack of public involvement in the decision-making process . Ezekwesili highlighted the use of terms like “native land” and “tribes” as problematic, while Yesufu publicly refused to recite the anthem.
What The Anthem Tells Us About Nigeria at 65
What does this evolution teach us?
Nigeria’s identity has shifted from colonial stages, through military rule, to democracy. The choice of anthem reflects how people see themselves and want others to see them.
The change in 1978 was about giving Nigerians ownership of their anthem, while the return in 2024 was about reconnecting with history and symbolism. Each decision reflects a different way of defining what it means to truly belong as a nation.
Without action, the words of any anthem lose their meaning. Unity, justice, peace, and service are values shared by both anthems and must be reflected in how Nigerians live, govern, and build their economy. Singing is important, but living out those ideals matters far more.
As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of freedom, it is a moment to reflect on the past, embrace the present, and aspire for a future where national symbols truly reflect the people’s identity and aspirations.
Happy Independence Day, Nigeria! May the anthem continue to inspire unity, pride, and hope for generations to come.