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Nevertheless, on the 29th of May 2024, the bill to reinstate the old national anthem has been signed into law. Consequently, schools and other public institutions will no longer recite “Arise O Compatriot”. While Pa Odiase composed “Arise O compatriot”, the lyrics were written by John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B. A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui and P. O. Aderibigbe in 1978. It was adopted in 1978.
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On the other hand, the lyrics of “Nigeria, we hail thee” were written by Lilian Jean Williams in 1959, while it was composed by Frances Berda in 1959. On the 1st of October 1960, it was adopted. With the careless and hurried expungement of a 46 year old anthem from our national consciousness, it is important to note that those who are younger than 50 years old may have a hard time grasping the lyrics of “Nigeria, we hail thee”. However, the older generation will find it much easier, as they are familiar with it.
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Here are the lyrics of the reinstated anthem: 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 honored, 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.
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