NYSC Anthem

The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC Anthem, officially titled “Youths Obey the Clarion Call,” is a powerful symbol of the scheme’s mission to foster unity, patriotism, and selfless service among Nigerian graduates. Established in 1973, the NYSC is a mandatory one-year program for Nigerian graduates under 30, designed to promote national integration and development.

The anthem encapsulates the spirit of dedication and collective responsibility, inspiring corps members to embrace their role in nation-building. Sung at NYSC events, orientation camps, and official gatherings, it serves as a rallying cry for young Nigerians. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of the NYSC Anthem, its lyrics, significance, and context, alongside related topics such as Nigeria’s current national anthem, the NYSC motto, and the history of the former anthem.

What Are the Words of the NYSC Anthem?

The NYSC Anthem, “Youths Obey the Clarion Call,” is a call for corps members to commit to national service. Below are the complete lyrics:

NYSC Anthem Lyrics
Youths obey the clarion call
Let us lift our nation high
Under the sun or in the rain
With dedication and selflessness
Nigeria is ours, Nigeria we serve.

Members, take the great salute
Put the nation first in all
With service and humility
NYSC for the noble youths
Nigeria, we serve with pride.

The anthem emphasizes unity, sacrifice, and patriotism, urging corps members to prioritize Nigeria’s progress regardless of challenges. It is sung during official NYSC events, such as swearing-in ceremonies, parades, and community development activities, reinforcing the corps’ commitment to national development.

What Is the Motto of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)?

The motto of the NYSC is “Service and Humility.” This phrase captures the core values of the scheme, encouraging corps members to serve with dedication while maintaining humility in their interactions with communities. The motto is reflected in NYSC activities, such as community development projects and educational services, and is prominently displayed in camps and on official documents. It aligns with the anthem’s call to place the nation first, reinforcing the ethos of collective effort and modesty.

What Is the Official National Anthem of Nigeria?

The official national anthem of Nigeria, as of January 1, 2025, is “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which was reinstated in 2024, replacing “Arise, O Compatriots.” Originally used from Nigeria’s independence in 1960 until 1978, it was re-adopted to reflect national heritage and identity. Below are the lyrics of the current national anthem:

Nigeria, We Hail Thee Lyrics
Nigeria, we hail thee,
Our own dear native land,
Though tribes and tongues may differ,
In brotherhood we stand,
Nigerians all, are proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.

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.

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.*

The anthem emphasizes unity across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups and a commitment to justice and peace. It is sung at national events, schools, and government functions, complementing the NYSC Anthem’s focus on service and unity.

Who Composed the “Arise, O Compatriots” Anthem?

The former national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” was composed by Benedict Elide Odiase, a Nigerian police officer and musician. In 1978, the Nigerian government held a competition to create a new anthem reflecting the country’s post-independence identity. Odiase’s composition, with lyrics by John A. Ilechukwu, Eme Etim Akpan, B. A. Ogunnaike, Sota Omoigui, and P. O. Aderibigbe, was selected for its stirring melody and patriotic tone. It served as Nigeria’s anthem from October 1, 1978, until 2024, when “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was reinstated. The lyrics of “Arise, O Compatriots” were:

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.

O God of creation, direct our noble cause
Guide our leaders right
Help our youth the truth to know
In love and honesty to grow
And living just and true
Great lofty heights attain
To build a nation where peace and justice shall reign.

Though no longer the national anthem, it remains significant in Nigeria’s history and is remembered by many, including NYSC alumni from its era.

Significance of the NYSC Anthem in Context

The NYSC Anthem, while distinct from the national anthem, shares a common purpose: fostering unity and duty among Nigerians. It specifically targets young graduates, encouraging them to serve in diverse regions, often far from their home states. Its lyrics highlight resilience (“Under the sun or in the rain”) and collective ownership (“Nigeria is ours”), aligning with the NYSC’s goal of breaking ethnic and regional barriers. The anthem’s themes resonate with the current national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which emphasizes brotherhood and a unified nation.

The NYSC Anthem is performed during orientation camps, where corps members learn its significance alongside traditions like the oath of allegiance. It serves as a motivational tool, reminding participants of their role in Nigeria’s development. Unlike the national anthem, which addresses all citizens, the NYSC Anthem is tailored to the corps’ unique experience, emphasizing their temporary but impactful role.

Practical Usage and Cultural Impact

The NYSC Anthem is integral to the corps’ culture, taught during the three-week orientation program and sung at morning assemblies, parades, and closing ceremonies. It fosters camaraderie among corps members from diverse backgrounds. Its uplifting melody makes it easy to memorize, ensuring it resonates throughout the service year.

The anthem has a lasting cultural impact, with alumni recalling it as a symbol of their service year—a time of personal growth, friendships, and community contributions. Social media posts from NYSC alumni often reference the anthem, reflecting its enduring significance. It also inspires corps members to engage in Community Development Service (CDS) projects, such as infrastructure development, teaching, or health campaigns, aligning with the NYSC’s objectives.

Conclusion

The NYSC Anthem, “Youths Obey the Clarion Call,” is a unifying force that encapsulates the spirit of the National Youth Service Corps. Its lyrics inspire dedication, patriotism, and humility, aligning with the NYSC motto of “Service and Humility.” While distinct from Nigeria’s current national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” and the former “Arise, O Compatriots” composed by Benedict Elide Odiase, the NYSC Anthem shares a commitment to national unity and progress. By understanding its words, significance, and context, corps members and citizens can appreciate its role in fostering a sense of purpose and collective identity in Nigeria’s youth.