Arise, O Compatriots
"Arise, O Compatriots" is the national anthem of Nigeria. It was adopted in the late 1970s and is the country's second ever national anthem.
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National anthem of  Nigeria | |
| Lyrics | John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B. A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui and P. O. Aderibigbe, 1978 |
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| Music | Nigerian Police Band under the directorship of B. E. Odiasse, 1990 |
| Adopted | 1978 |
| Audio sample | |
"Arise, O Compatriots" (instrumental)
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History
It was adopted in 1978 and replaced the previous national 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. Though it has two verses, usually only the first is sung. On some occasions, the second verse is recited as "The National Prayer".
Lyrics:
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
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 reigns.
National Pledge
The Nigerian pledge of allegiance is recited immediately after the playing of the Nigerian national anthem: It was written by Prof (Mrs.) Felicia Adebola Adeyoyin in 1976.
- 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.Amen
References
- "Nigeria's National Anthem Composer, Pa Ben Odiase, Dies". Gazelle News. 2013-06-12. Retrieved 2013-07-08.