You mother that sits by the river,
Enough is the milk from your breast.
But your children still lack and suffer
And so they wear anger, and protest.

You mother that sits by the Niger,
Great are the riches you have brought.
But your riches have come with hunger
And so your children cry before they eat.

You children that live by the river,
Look up and see the rays of light
That is coming over and above the water.
So it is time to lay your guns to rest.

You children that live by the Niger,
Listen now to the bird singing that
‘Your mother cannot feed you forever.’
So work hard and hold on to your talent.