Nigeria, we hail Thee!

"Nigeria, we hail Thee!" holds a special place in the hearts of many as the nation's original anthem. When a choir takes up this piece, the atmosphere in the room shifts to one of deep reflection and civic prayer. The words call for unity and brotherhood despite differences in tribe and tongue, a message that feels right at home in a diverse congregation. Laz Ekwueme’s four-part harmony arrangement brings a rich, choral dignity to the melody, making it highly suitable for civic ceremonies, Independence Day Masses, or national celebrations where the church gathers to pray for the country.

Singing this anthem in four parts requires a choir to listen closely to one another, blending the soaring soprano line with the grounding bass. The final verse acts as a solemn petition—"O God of all creation, Grant this our one request"—which resonates powerfully when sung from the choir loft. It reminds the congregation that building a nation where no one is oppressed is a shared duty. The familiar solfa notation makes it accessible for choirs across the country to learn, rehearse, and perform with genuine pride.