What You Need About Nigerian National Anthem & National Pledge

For Nigeria, “Arise, O Compatriots” is the name of the national anthem. This is the country’s second national anthem; it was officially approved in the late 1970s. The song succeeded “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the country’s official anthem in 1978.

The song’s lyrics are a compilation of the top five entries to a nationwide contest. With Benedict P. Odiase at the helm, the Nigerian Police Band set the lyrics to music. P. O. Aderibigbe, John A. Ilechukwu, Sota Omoigui, Emetim Akpan, and B.A. Ogunnaike are the authors of the lyrics to the Nigerian national anthem.

While there are two verses to the song, only the first is typically performed. The second verse is often used in place of “The National Prayer” when such an opportunity arises. As soon as the Nigerian national song concludes, the pledge of allegiance is recited. Felicia Adebola Adeyoyin penned it in 1976.

English Version (Original)

First Stanza

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

Second Stanza

Oh 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[a] reign.

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