Arise, O Compatriots
| National anthem of |  Nigeria |
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| Lyrics | John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B. A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui and P.O. Aderibighe |
| Music | Nigerian Police Band under the directorship of B. E. Odiase |
| Adopted | 1978 |
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Arise O Compatriots (Instrumental)
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"Arise, O Compatriots" is the national anthem of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It was adopted in 1978, and replaced Nigeria We Hail Thee. The lyrics are a combination of words and phrases taken from five of the best entries in a national contest. The words were put to music by the Nigerian Police Band under the directorship of Benedict Elise Odiase.
Contents |
Lyrics
"Arise, O Compatriots" (1978-present)
- 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.
- O God of creation,
- Direct our noble cause;
- Guide our Leaders right:
- Help our Youth the truth to know,
- In love and honesty to grow,
- And living just and true,
- Great lofty heights attain,
- To build a nation where peace and justice shall reign.
Nigeria We Hail Thee" (1960-1978)
- Nigeria we hail thee,
- Our own Soverign motherland,
- Though tribe and tongue may differ,
- In brotherhood we stand,
- Nigerians all are proud to serve
- Our sovereign Motherland.
- 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.
Customs
The Nigerian National Anthem is usually performed at major events having to do with national pride, such as the President's address, major sporting events and at school where it is usually accompanied by Nigeria's National Pledge.
Nigeria's National Pledge
The National Pledge of Nigeria is recited immediately after the Anthem
- I pledge to Nigeria my country,
- To be faithful, loyal and honest,
- To serve Nigeria with all my strength,
- To defend her unity,
- And uphold her honor and glory,
- So help me God.
References and external links
Lyrics for all the anthems and sheet music[1],[1]
References
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