Respect National Symbols, NOA Tells Nigerians

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to demonstrate greater respect and commitment to the country’s national symbols as the nation commemorates the 2025 National Ordinance Day.

The NOA Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, in a statement on Tuesday, emphasised that respect for national symbols is essential to Nigeria’s unity and identity.

According to Issa-Onilu, the National Ordinance Day, celebrated annually on September 16, commemorates the handover of Nigeria’s national symbols at independence and serves as a reminder of the values of unity, discipline, and service that bind the nation together.

He stressed that national symbols, such as the national flag, coat of arms, national anthem, pledge, and constitution, represent Nigeria’s dignity and sovereignty.

Issa-Onilu called on citizens to consciously demonstrate patriotism through their interactions with these symbols, noting that giving proper recognition to them is both a civic duty and a mark of patriotism.

“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,” he said.

The NOA boss encouraged schools, communities, organisations, and government institutions to integrate respect for national symbols into their daily practices, which will help deepen national identity and strengthen social cohesion.

The NOA has intensified campaigns to instil respect for national symbols, including a two-week nationwide enlightenment campaign launched in August 2025, focusing on five thematic areas, including the Nigerian identity project and national symbols campaign.

The agency also reaffirmed its commitment to continuous sensitisation and collaboration with stakeholders nationwide, ensuring that Nigerians, especially the younger generation, understand the importance of national symbols and uphold the values they represent.