Why Nigeria’s old national anthem was abolished in 1978

On Thursday, the House of Representatives advanced a bill to its second reading, proposing a return to Nigeria’s old national anthem.

Leading the debate on the bill’s general principles, its sponsor, Julius Ihonvbere, emphasised the significance of patriotism and nationalism as the foundation for his proposal.

Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” was officially adopted in 1960, when the country gained independence from British colonial rule.

However, it was abolished in 1978 and replaced by the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” for several reasons:

Picture a vibrant Nigeria in 1960, freshly independent after years of colonial rule. The air buzzes with excitement, and the nation seeks an anthem to rally its people, and so an anthem is born.

Firstly, the original anthem had strong ties to Nigeria’s colonial past. It was written by a British expatriate, Lillian Jean Williams, with music by Frances Berda.

Some argue that the anthem’s British origins don’t quite fit the bill for a newly independent Nigeria. Others argue that it fails to capture the vibrant and diverse cultural mosaic of Nigeria.

Petitions circulate, demanding change. In essence, as Nigeria settled into its identity as an independent nation, many felt the anthem didn’t quite capture the spirit and aspirations of its people.

There was also a growing desire for an anthem created by Nigerians, one that truly reflected the country’s cultural diversity and united its many ethnic groups.

The 1970s were a time of growing national pride and a push towards embracing indigenous culture. The leadership felt that a new anthem would better symbolise Nigeria’s journey and future aspirations.

The years following independence were tumultuous, with the Nigerian Civil War and the subsequent efforts at national reconciliation.

In this context, a new anthem was seen as a way to foster a sense of unity and national purpose, helping Nigerians to move forward together.

Public sentiment also played a big role. Many Nigerians felt the old anthem lacked the emotional and patriotic fervour needed to inspire the nation. People wanted an anthem that resonated more deeply with their experiences and hopes.

To address these needs, fast-forward to 1978. Nigeria decides it’s time for a fresh start. A national contest is announced—a quest for a new anthem.

A national competition was held to create a new anthem. Citizens across the land put pen to paper, dreaming of lyrics that capture unity, diversity, and resilience.

The winning entry? A beautiful blend of phrases from five different submissions. Benedict P. Odiase, director of the Nigerian Police Band, composes the music.

The winning entry, “Arise, O Compatriots,” was composed by the Nigerian Police Band under Benedict E. Odiase, with lyrics contributed by five Nigerians: John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B.A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui, and P.O. Aderibigbe.

Imagine standing in a stadium, hearts swelling as the anthem echoes. The crowd sings:

“Arise, O compatriots, Nigeria’s call obey…” It’s a nod to unity, a reminder that together, Nigerians can surmount any challenge.

The new anthem, adopted in 1978, was meant to embody the spirit of unity, peace, and progress.

It represented a fresh start, celebrating Nigeria’s independence and inspiring a sense of national pride and unity among its people.

Read the old anthem below:

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.