President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law, reinstating Nigeria’s original anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” The announcement was made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a joint plenary session attended by Tinubu.

The new legislation marks a return to the anthem composed when Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960. The lyrics of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” were penned by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams, with music composed by Frances Berda.

The bill’s passage through the legislative process was notably swift, garnering approval from both the Senate and the House of Representatives. With the President’s final ascent, the anthem “Arise, O Compatriots,” which had been used since 1978, has been officially replaced.

During the plenary session, Senate President Akpabio highlighted the historical significance of the old anthem and expressed hope that its reinstatement would inspire a renewed sense of patriotism and unity among Nigerians.

The reintroduction of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” is part of broader efforts by the Tinubu administration to revive national pride and honor Nigeria’s historical milestones.