Arise, O Compatriots

Arise, O Compatriots

National anthem of  Nigeria

Lyrics John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B. A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui and P.O. Aderibigbe
Music Nigerian Police Band under the directorship of B. E. Odiase
Adopted 1978
Relinquished present

Music sample
Arise O Compatriots (Instrumental)

"Arise, O Compatriots" is the national anthem of Nigeria. It was adopted in 1978 and replaced the previous anthem, Nigeria, We Hail Thee.[1] 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 E. Odiase.

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 all 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 dear native land,
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 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.

National Pledge

The Pledge is recited immediately after the National 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 honour and glory
  So, help me God.

References

  1. ↑ "Nigeria’s National Anthem Composer, Pa Ben Odiase, Dies". Gazelle News. 2013-06-12. Retrieved 2013-07-08.

External links