“Nigeria, We Hail Thee”: Checkout 15 Reasons Why Old National Anthem Was Abandoned In 1978

It is no longer news that the House of Representatives on Thursday passed a bill seeking to return Nigeria back to reciting the old National Anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” and discard the present one, “Arise O’ Compatriots”.

“Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” Nigeria’s first national anthem, was replaced in 1978. The reasons behind this change are rooted in the historical, political, and cultural dynamics of the country at the time.

Understanding the transition from the old anthem to the new one requires an exploration of Nigeria’s colonial past, its early post-independence challenges, and the socio-political aspirations of the Nigerian people.

1. Colonial Legacy and Independence: “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was adopted upon Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule in 1960. Composed by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams, the anthem represented a formal break from colonial rule but carried traces of colonial influence. It encapsulated the initial hopes and aspirations of a newly independent nation, seeking unity and identity amid diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
2. Content and Symbolism

The anthem’s lyrics, “Nigeria, we hail thee / Our own dear native land,” aimed to foster a sense of national pride and unity. However, some felt that its tone and phrasing lacked the emotional and cultural resonance necessary to inspire the diverse Nigerian populace. The anthem, while respectful, was seen as somewhat detached from the lived experiences and vibrant cultures of Nigerians.

READ: Tinubu Makes U-Turn, Orders Review Of Governing Councils List

3. Cultural Representation

One major critique was that “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” did not adequately reflect the rich cultural diversity of Nigeria. With over 250 ethnic groups, the nation’s identity is deeply complex. The anthem’s European composition and its relatively neutral lyrics did not fully capture the essence of Nigeria’s indigenous cultures and traditions.

4. Military Influence

In 1966, Nigeria experienced its first military coup, leading to a period of political instability and successive military regimes. By 1978, the country was under military rule, and the government sought to promote a stronger, more unified national identity. The military leadership saw the need for symbols that resonated more profoundly with the Nigerian people’s sense of nationhood.

5. National Unity: During this period, the concept of national unity was paramount. The Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) had underscored the fragility of the nation’s unity. Leaders believed that a new national anthem could serve as a unifying force, helping to heal the wounds of the civil war and foster a sense of collective national identity.
6. Sovereignty and Authenticity

The desire for a national anthem created by Nigerians for Nigerians was strong. The old anthem, composed by a foreigner, was seen as lacking in authentic Nigerian spirit. The new anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” was the product of a national contest, with the lyrics written by five Nigerian citizens, ensuring that it resonated more deeply with the country’s aspirations and values.

7. Contest and Selection

In 1977, the Nigerian government organized a national competition to compose a new anthem.

This inclusive approach allowed Nigerians from different walks of life to contribute to a symbol of their sovereignty and identity. The winning entry, “Arise, O Compatriots,” emerged from this process, embodying a collective effort and a shared vision for the nation’s future.

8. Reflecting Change

The new anthem’s lyrics, “Arise, O Compatriots / Nigeria’s call obey,” emphasize action, unity, and progress. It calls on Nigerians to rise and build their nation, reflecting a proactive and forward-looking spirit that was deemed essential for the country’s development and stability.

9. National Identity: “Arise, O Compatriots” also addresses themes of patriotism, service, and sacrifice. By invoking a sense of duty and responsibility, the anthem aims to inspire citizens to contribute to the nation’s growth and prosperity, thus fostering a stronger sense of national identity and pride.
10. Political Strategy

Adopting a new anthem was also a strategic political move by the military regime to distance itself from previous governments and to mark a new chapter in Nigerian history. It was a way to signify a break from the past and to symbolize the beginning of a new era under military governance.

11. Educational and Cultural Impact

The change in the anthem was accompanied by efforts to instill its values in the populace. The new anthem was integrated into school curricula, ensuring that young Nigerians grew up with its message of unity and national service. This educational strategy was intended to mold future generations into patriotic citizens.

12. National Symbols

The adoption of new national symbols, including the anthem and the national pledge, was part of a broader initiative to redefine Nigerian identity. These symbols were seen as tools to promote national cohesion and to instill a sense of collective purpose and pride.

13. Public Reception: The transition to the new anthem was met with mixed reactions. While many welcomed it as a necessary step towards greater national unity and self-assertion, others were nostalgic for “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” and skeptical of the motivations behind the change.

Over time, however, the new anthem became widely accepted and cherished.

14. Cultural Resonance

“Arise, O Compatriots” has endured as a powerful symbol of Nigerian identity. Its lyrics resonate with the values and aspirations of the Nigerian people, and it is sung with pride at national events, reinforcing the sense of unity and national purpose that the government intended to foster.

15. Legacy and Continuity

The replacement of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” with “Arise, O Compatriots” in 1978 reflects a significant moment in Nigeria’s post-colonial history. It underscores the importance of cultural authenticity, national unity, and the ongoing effort to build a cohesive national identity in a diverse and dynamic country.

This change remains a testament to Nigeria’s journey towards defining and embracing its sovereignty and identity.