Nigeria
Arise, O Compatriots
1978
1978
John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B.A. Ogunnaike, Sotu Omoigui, P.O. Aderibigbe
Benedict Elide Odiase
🤝 Unity 🕊 Freedom ❤ Love of homeland ☮ Peace |
Context
Adopted in 1978, replacing the original anthem 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee' which had been written by a British expatriate. The new anthem was the result of a national competition and better reflects Nigerian identity and aspirations. Nigeria is Africa's most populous country.
Lyrics
Arise, O compatriots,
Nigeria's call obey
To serve our fatherland
With love and strength and faith.
The labour of our heroes past
Shall never be in vain,
To serve with heart and might
One nation bound in freedom,
Peace and unity.
Translations are non-official and intended to convey meaning, not replace originals
Interesting facts
- • The original anthem 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee' (1960-1978) was replaced because it had been written by a British woman, Lillian Jean Williams
- • The current anthem was selected from entries submitted by a national competition, with lyrics combining elements from five different submissions
- • Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa with over 200 million people and more than 250 ethnic groups