New Nigeria national team anthem: Ekong and his guests struggle at charity match

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong and his guests faced an unexpected challenge during the exhibition match to launch his foundation: the new Nigerian national anthem. The 46-year-old anthem “Arise O’ Compatriots” has been replaced with “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” the country’s first anthem as a sovereign nation, causing some confusion.

William Troost-Ekong launched his foundation on Sunday, June 2nd, with a mission to develop football in Akwa Ibom. To mark the occasion, an exhibition football match featuring Troost-Ekong and various celebrities took place.

As is customary in international sporting events, the national anthem was played before kickoff. However, instead of the familiar “Arise O’ Compatriots,” the new official anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” resonated through the stadium speakers. Many, including the players and celebrities, struggled to sing along or simply stood in silence, unfamiliar with the lyrics of the reinstated anthem.

Celebrities like Falz, Sabinus, Odumodublvck, Joseph Yobo, Samson Siasia, Poco Lee, and even Troost-Ekong appeared confused or amused as the new anthem played.

The Super Eagles are set to play against South Africa on Friday, June 7, and it remains to be seen how well they will have adapted to the new national anthem by then.