“The National anthem and my questions?”

“The National anthem and my questions?”

The new - "Arise, O Compatriots" (1978–present)

Arise, O compatriots, - Are we asleep or what is the issue?

Nigeria's call obey – What exactly is the call, A call of hatred, peace, poverty or what?

To serve our Fatherland – When you serve, there should be a reward, what exactly is our reward for this service?

With love and strength and faith. – Is it possible to have all these with our environment?

The labour of our heroes past – Did they really labour or was it just a ride?

Shall never be in vain, - a hopeful prayer this is or what do we call it?

To serve with heart and might – Can we really do this when there is so much hatred, bitterness and poverty?

One nation bound in freedom, peace and unity. – Does this exist with the multiple social divides and all?

O God of creation – Must we always call on him?

Direct our noble cause – What is our Noble cause, as in what exactly?

Guide our leader’s right – Are we not tired of this prayer?

Help our youth the truth to know – The truth is very relative so what truth do we have to know?

In love and honesty to grow – Isn’t this just wishful thinking?

And living just and true, Great lofty heights attain – A prayer again?

To build a nation where peace And justice reign. – When would this happen?

I ask those questions even with hope in my heart that someday, the words of this anthem would be actualized. I have spent over two decades already and all I do is HOPE, HOPE and HOPE.

Feel free to share your comments and thoughts. Nigeria, We hail thee

I look forward to that day when all the visions of the composers of our anthems would be a reality. So help us God.