The lyrics of the reintroduced National Anthem have been standardised by the National Orientation Agency (NOA). This anthem, originally composed by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams, was Nigeria’s official anthem from 1960 to 1978. Recently, President Bola Tinubu signed a bill to revert to this old anthem, sparking debate among Nigerians. Some see it as a nostalgic move, while others view it as unnecessary.
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The Need for Standardisation
Following the reintroduction, various versions of the anthem began circulating. To address this, the NOA promised to release an official version after consulting with key stakeholders. On Wednesday, in Abuja, NOA Director-General Lanre Issa-Onilu unveiled the standardised lyrics to ensure consistency nationwide.
Key Changes and Clarifications
In the standardised version, only one word was altered. The word “and” in the fifth line of the first stanza was corrected to “are,” making the line read, “Nigerians all, are proud to serve.” This change was highlighted to eliminate confusion and ensure everyone sings the same lyrics.
Issa-Onilu emphasised the correct lyrics: “We call the attention of Nigerians to line three of the first stanza, which reads: ‘Though tribes and tongues may differ.’ Note that ‘tribes’ and ‘tongues’ are in plural. Also, line five should read: ‘Nigerians all, are proud to serve.’ The word ‘are,’ not ‘and,’ is correct.”
The Standardised National Anthem
Stanza 1
Nigeria, we hail thee
Our own dear native land
Though tribes and tongues may differ
In brotherhood, we stand
Nigerians all, are proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.
Stanza 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.
Stanza 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 Importance of a Unified Anthem
Having a standardised version of the national anthem ensures unity and a shared sense of pride among Nigerians. It reflects the country’s rich diversity and the common goal of serving the nation. As you learn and sing these lyrics, you contribute to fostering national unity and identity.
For more details on the anthem and its significance, visit the official NOA website. Stay informed and share the correct lyrics to help spread national pride and unity.
