Nigeria We Hail Thee: Checkout the Lyrics And Meaning Of The Old National Anthem

On Thursday, the House of Representatives passed a bill to adopt the old National Anthem.

Sponsored by Majority Leader Julius Ihonvbere, the bill was passed despite opposition from some lawmakers. It was debated for a second reading and quickly rushed through a third reading amid a rowdy session.

However, Osun Defender has exclusively gathered the lyrics and meaning of the old National Anthem.

The Lyrics

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.

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

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.

The Meaning And Concept

The lyrics of Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” reflect themes of unity, patriotism, justice, and aspiration for a prosperous nation. Here is an explanation of each verse:

1. 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.

This opening verse celebrates Nigeria as a beloved nation. It acknowledges the country’s ethnic and linguistic diversity, highlighting that despite these differences, Nigerians are united in brotherhood. The phrase “proud to serve” emphasizes a collective commitment to serving and honoring Nigeria, referred to as the “sovereign Motherland,” signifying respect and devotion to the nation’s sovereignty and independence.

2. 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.

This verse focuses on the Nigerian flag as a symbol of the nation’s core values of truth and justice. Whether in times of peace or conflict, the flag represents honor and integrity. The lines express the hope that future generations will inherit a country free from corruption and dishonor, symbolized by a “banner without stain.”

3. 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.

The final verse is a prayer to God, asking for divine assistance in building a nation where oppression does not exist. It emphasizes the desire for peace and abundance, seeking God’s blessing for Nigeria to achieve these ideals. This verse encapsulates the aspiration for a harmonious and prosperous society.

Overall, the anthem reflects a vision of national unity, integrity, justice, and divine guidance, aiming to inspire Nigerians to work together towards a peaceful and prosperous future.