By Atoyebi Nike
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to demonstrate greater respect and commitment to the nation’s symbols of identity as the country marks the 2025 National Ordinance Day.
Over the years, the agency has intensified campaigns to instil respect for the National Flag, Anthem, Pledge, Coat of Arms, and other emblems of sovereignty, stressing that they remain central to Nigeria’s unity and collective identity.
In August 2025, the NOA launched a two-week nationwide enlightenment drive beginning on August 20, focusing on five thematic areas, including the Nigerian identity project and a renewed campaign on national symbols.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Director General of the NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, described September 16—the date marked annually as National Ordinance Day—as a historic reminder of the formal handover of Nigeria’s national symbols at independence. He said the commemoration underscores the enduring 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 daily interactions with them. According to him, giving proper recognition to the symbols is “both a civic duty and a mark of patriotism.”
The NOA boss further encouraged schools, communities, organisations, and government institutions to incorporate respect for national symbols into their practices, saying this would strengthen national identity and deepen social cohesion.
Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to continuous sensitisation and collaboration with stakeholders across the country, Issa-Onilu pledged that the NOA would ensure Nigerians, especially the younger generation, understand the importance of the national symbols and the values they embody.
