CA Country Anthems

Nigeria National Anthem History

Nigeria, We Hail Thee

"Nigeria We Hail Thee" was first adopted in 1960 upon independence, written by a British expatriate. It was replaced in 1978 by a military regime but controversially restored as the national anthem in May 2024.

Nigeria Nigeria, We Hail Thee

Nigeria

Language
English
Anthem
Nigeria, We Hail Thee
Duration
1:49
Status
"Nigeria We Hail Thee" is currently the official anthem, but its restoration has led to ongoing public debate and dual usage among citizens based on political affiliation.

History timeline

  1. 1959

    A national contest was held to select an anthem for Nigeria's upcoming independence.

  2. 1960

    "Nigeria We Hail Thee," written by a British expatriate, was adopted as the national anthem upon independence.

  3. 1978

    The military government replaced "Nigeria We Hail Thee" with a different national anthem.

  4. 2024

    President Tinubu signed a bill into law on May 29, restoring "Nigeria We Hail Thee" as the national anthem.

  5. 2024

    The restoration faced public opposition due to its colonial origin and swift legislative process.

  6. Ongoing

    Public opinion remains divided, with some citizens continuing to use the previously adopted anthem.

Despite being the official anthem, its controversial restoration in 2024 has led to some citizens continuing to sing the *previous* anthem in protest.