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Old Nigerian National Anthem: 'Arise, O Compatriots'
"Arise, O Compatriots" served as Nigeria’s national anthem for over four decades, from 1978 until its replacement in 2024. The anthem was uniquely Nigerian, with lyrics composed by a panel of Nigerian citizens and music arranged by Nigerian composer Benedict E. Odiase. It became a familiar and unifying call to duty, patriotism, and national development.
Though it has now been replaced by the current national anthem, "Arise, O Compatriots" remains an important part of Nigeria’s cultural and political history, symbolizing the nation's post-independence evolution and aspirations.
Lyrics of the Former Nigerian National Anthem (First Stanza)
Below are the full lyrics of the previous national anthem, "Arise, O Compatriots":
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.
