The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to demonstrate greater respect and commitment to the country’s national symbols as the nation marks the 2025 National Ordinance Day.
The Agency noted that in recent years, it has intensified campaigns to promote respect for the National Flag, Anthem, Pledge, Coat of Arms, and other emblems of sovereignty, stressing that these symbols remain central to Nigeria’s unity and identity.
In August 2025, the NOA launched a two-week nationwide enlightenment campaign on five thematic areas, including the Nigerian Identity Project and the National Symbols Campaign.
In a statement on Tuesday, NOA Director General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, explained that National Ordinance Day, celebrated annually on September 16, commemorates the handover of Nigeria’s national symbols at independence. He said the day serves as a reminder of the values of unity, discipline, and service that bind the nation together.
“Respect for our national symbols is respect for Nigeria itself. Each time we hoist the flag correctly, recite the pledge sincerely, or sing the anthem with pride, we affirm our loyalty and commitment to the ideals of our nation,” Issa-Onilu stated.
He emphasised that the symbols represent Nigeria’s dignity and sovereignty, urging citizens to consciously demonstrate patriotism in their interaction with them. “Giving proper recognition to these symbols is both a civic duty and a mark of patriotism,” he added.
The DG further encouraged schools, communities, organisations, and government institutions to integrate respect for national symbols into their daily practices, saying this would deepen national identity and strengthen social cohesion.
The Agency reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing sensitisation efforts and collaboration with stakeholders nationwide, pledging to ensure that Nigerians, especially the younger generation, understand the importance of national symbols and uphold the values they represent.
