64 years ago

Our nation came to be,

Her cradle was blessed by God

From her youth, she was called

Her sisters welcomed her with joy

A joy worth celebrating.

Among her daughters

All were blessed in beauty,

Amidst her scars, gold flowed

On her head, a crown was placed

What else could she ask for

A daughter to the mighty Africa.

On her shores

Kings ruled,

From the mighty Benin Empire

To the Caliphate of Sokoto

From the riverine areas

To the mainlands, she spreads her voice

Whatever she touches, gold blooms

Her streams are bountiful

Her heart warm.

From her soul

Riches flow through,

From cocoa to maize

From diamonds to uranium

Her wealth is but a wonder

Mother Africa, your daughter is here

A giant among the nations

Pray for her dearest mother, Africa

Let these words be her gift.

On her borders

Her sisters thrive,

From her bounty, they shared

Yes, she who blessed the shores of Ghana

She who lit up the skies of Niger Republic

She turns older and wiser

Pray for her ye daughters of Africa

Let her name be blessed.

From her daughters

Heroes were born,

Heroes who fought for freedom

From the east, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe

His voice became legendary

From the south Ken Saro Wiwa

His truth brought light to her

From the west, Chief Obafemi Awolowo

A man whose name brought enlightenment

Words fail me to describe her worth

From the north Sir Tafelewa Balewa

A monarch scholar

Queen Elizabeth herself knighted him

In her ranks, they sprouted

A nation is born

A nation beyond truth

Nigeria, a voice like no other.

This was written by our contributing writer, Adiela Michael.