Quick Summary
- What is it? “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” is the official National Anthem of Nigeria.
- When was it used? It was used from 1960 to 1978, and it was brought back on May 29, 2024.
- Who wrote it? The words were written by Lillian Jean Williams and the music was composed by Frances Berda.
- Main Message: It teaches unity, brotherhood, and building a fair nation for everyone.
A Short History of “Nigeria We Hail Thee – National anthem”
“Nigeria We Hail Thee” is a patriotic song composed in 1960 by Lilian Jean Enadi, the year Nigeria gained independence. It celebrates Nigeria’s beauty, unity, and aspirations for peace and progress. Widely adopted in schools and public ceremonies, the song fosters national pride and is often taught using tonic solfa or letter notes to make it easy for children and beginners to sing. While not the official national anthem, it remains a beloved song that reflects Nigeria’s culture, values, and patriotic spirit.
Nigeria we hail thee Yoruba Lyrics
Stanza One
Naijiria a ki o
Ile ibi wa owon
Eya atede le ya to
Ni sho kon la duro
Gbogbo wa fi igbo ya si
Ile ibiwa owon
Stanza Two
Asiya wa yo je ami
Pe ododo njoba
Ni alafia tabi ogun
Eyi yo je ere wa
Lati fi fun
Awon omo wa
Asiya lai labawon
Stanza Three
Olorun eda gbogbo
Gbo ebe wa kan yi
Ba wa ko orile ede
Ni ipin reje kosi
Ka lafiya ati opo
Je bukun naijiria
Nigeria we hail thee Lyrics in English
Stanza One
Nigeria we hail thee,
Our own dear native land,
Though tribe and tongue may differ,
In brotherhood we stand,
Nigerians all, and proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.
Stanza Two
Our flag shall be a symbol
That truth and justice reign,
In peace or battle honour’d,
And this we count as gain,
To hand on to our children
A banner without stain.
Stanza Three
O God of all creation,
Grant this our one request,
Help us to build a nation
Where no man is oppressed,
And so with peace and plenty
Nigeria may be blessed.
Nigeria we hail thee Yoruba Video
Here’s the video of Nigeria We Hail Thee (new national anthem of Nigeria) beautifully rendered in the Yoruba language. This version stays true to the anthem’s powerful message while embracing our indigenous culture.
Nigeria we hail thee Yoruba, English & Tonic Solfa Video
Here’s the video presentation of Nigeria We Hail Thee in three powerful formats:
- Yoruba translation
- Original English lyrics
- Tonic solfa notation for singers and choirs
Downloadable PDF
Want a printable Nigeria We Hail Thee Yoruba Lyrics sheet ? Click below to download it and practice anytime:
Download Nigeria We Hail Thee Yoruba Lyrics PDF
Want more tonic solfa of songs, check out the lessons below:
- Nigeria We Hail Thee Tonic Solfa
- Jesus Loves Me Tonic Solfa
- Mary Had a Little Lamb Tonic Solfa
- Trust and Obey Tonic Solfa
- Great Is Thy Faithfulness Tonic Solfa
- Practical Way to Master Tonic Solfa for Beginners
- How to Find the Tonic Solfa of Any Song
- 10 Ear Training Techniques For Musicians
FAQs
Who wrote “Nigeria We Hail Thee”?
The lyrics were written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British woman living in Nigeria. The music was composed by Frances Berda.
Is this anthem still used today?
No, it was replaced in 1978 by “Arise, O Compatriots.” But it still holds cultural and historical value.
Why is the old anthem considered better by some?
Many say it has richer values, a more hopeful tone, and clearer messages of unity and justice.
Can this be sung in Yoruba at events?
Yes! Translating national symbols into local languages promotes inclusivity and unity. Just make sure to do it respectfully.
Final Thoughts
“Nigeria We Hail Thee” reminds us of our roots, our diversity, and our shared hopes. Translating it into Yoruba helps more people connect to its meaning and message.
Let’s keep this part of our heritage alive, whether in schools, choirs, or our hearts.










