Composer of Nigeria National Anthem, Pa Benedict Odiase, dies

Composer of the Nigerian national anthem, “Arise O Compatriots”, Pa Benedict Odiase died on Tuesday night following a long illness.

Pa Odiase was the director of music with the Nigeria Police Force until he retired in 1992.

He was a deputy Commissioner of Police.

President Goodluck Jonathan sent his condolences to the family through a spokesman. In a statement by his spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati, the president said... 

"Pa Odiase will always be remembered and honoured whenever the National Anthem, which captures the vision of Nigeria as a great nation, is played.”

He asked friends and family members of the deceased to be “consoled by the knowledge that the late police officer lived an exemplary life.”

“In passing on, he bequeathed an indelible legacy to the nation, which will continue to inspire present and future generations to greater heights of accomplishment.”