In this video, I've decided to sing the Nigerian National Anthem. And I really do not have a good reason why I did so. I just listened to a radio play the anthem today and it reminded me of my days in basic and secondary school, where we were made to sing this beautiful sound every morning of our lives. Well, if that counts as a good enough reason to sing it now, I hope you enjoyed it.

The anthem was embraced officially in 1978 and replaced the previously adopted anthem, "Nigeria, We Hail Thee". The lyrics are an amalgamation of words and phrases taken from some of the most remarkably notable entries in a national competition. The words were put to a song by the Band of The Nigerian Police Force under the strict supervision of Benedict E. Odiase. The anthem has two verses. But in most public situations, just the first verse is sang.

Nigeria Anthem Lyrics

Verse 1

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

Verse 2

Oh God of creation
Direct our noble cause
Guide thou our leaders right
Help our youth the truth to know
In love and honesty to grow
And live in just and truth
Great lofty heights attain
To build a nation where peace
And justice shall reign

Nigerian Pledge

The Nigerian Pledge is usually recited just after the anthem in customary fashion.

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.