“Nigeria We Hail Thee,” Nigeria’s former national anthem, holds a significant place in the country’s history, encapsulating the spirit of a newly independent nation. Introduced in 1960, when Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule, the anthem remained in use until 1978. Its lyrics, composed by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate living in Nigeria, and its music composed by Frances Berda, a Nigerian, reflect a deep sense of patriotism and hope for the future.
One of the most distinctive aspects of “Nigeria We Hail Thee” is its lyrical content, which is both simple and profound. The anthem begins with a heartfelt salutation to the nation:
“Nigeria we hail thee,
Our own dear native land,
Though tribe and tongue may differ,
In brotherhood we stand.”
These lines emphasize the unity and diversity of Nigeria, recognizing the multitude of ethnic groups and languages within the country. The phrase “though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand” is particularly poignant, as it underscores the aspiration for national unity despite the cultural and linguistic differences among the Nigerian people. This message of unity in diversity was crucial during the early years of Nigeria’s independence, as the country sought to forge a cohesive national identity.
The second stanza continues with a call to the citizens to serve their country with love and loyalty:
“Our flag shall be a symbol
That truth and justice reign
In peace or battle honoured,
And this we count as gain,
To hand on to our children
A banner without stain.”
Here, the anthem highlights the importance of the national flag as a symbol of the nation’s values—truth, justice, and honor. The lyrics encourage Nigerians to work towards a legacy of peace and integrity, aiming to pass on a nation “without stain” to future generations. This reflects the hopeful and aspirational mindset of the time, as the country was eager to build a prosperous and just society.
The final stanza is a solemn pledge to serve Nigeria faithfully:
“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.”
This stanza brings a spiritual dimension to the anthem, invoking divine assistance in the nation-building process. It expresses a desire for a country free from oppression, blessed with peace and prosperity. The inclusion of this plea for divine guidance reflects the deeply religious nature of Nigerian society, where faith plays a crucial role in public and private life.
The music composed by Frances Berda complements the anthem’s solemn and hopeful tone. Its melody is both uplifting and reverent, designed to inspire pride and a sense of duty among Nigerians.
While “Nigeria We Hail Thee” was eventually replaced in 1978 by the current anthem “Arise, O Compatriots,” it remains a cherished part of Nigeria’s heritage. The change was part of a broader effort to instill a new sense of patriotism and identity, with the new anthem being the product of a national contest aimed at involving Nigerians directly in the creation of their national symbols.
In retrospect, “Nigeria We Hail Thee” stands out for its lyrical simplicity and profound messages of unity, justice, and faith. It captures the optimism and aspirations of a young nation eager to chart its own course in the world. Its themes of unity in diversity, dedication to justice, and faith in divine guidance continue to resonate, making it a timeless piece of Nigeria’s national narrative.
DNews Info is a trusted source for breaking news, insightful commentary, and in-depth coverage of events across Nigeria and beyond. With a commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and engaging stories, we aim to keep our readers informed and empowered. Stay connected for the latest updates in politics, business, entertainment, and more.
Discover more from DnewsInfo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
