Respect for our national symbols is respect for Nigeria itself

As Nigeria prepares to commemorate the 2025 National Ordinance Day, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) is calling on Nigerians to show greater respect and commitment to the nation’s national symbols.

The observance, celebrated annually on September 16, marks the handover of Nigeria’s national symbols at independence, serving as a reminder of the values of unity, discipline, and service.

In a recent statement, the Director General of the NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, emphasized the importance of national symbols, which include the National Flag, Anthem, Pledge, and Coat of Arms.

He stated, “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.”

Since August 2025, the NOA has ramped up its efforts with a two-week nationwide enlightenment campaign focusing on five thematic areas, which include promoting the Nigerian identity project alongside the campaign for national symbols.

Issa-Onilu called on citizens to actively demonstrate their patriotism through everyday interactions with these symbols, asserting that recognizing them is “both a civic duty and a mark of patriotism.”

The agency also urged schools, communities, organisations, and government bodies to integrate respect for national symbols into their daily practices to deepen national identity and bolster social cohesion.

As part of its commitment to ongoing sensitization, the NOA plans to collaborate with stakeholders across the country to ensure that Nigerians, especially the younger generation, understand the significance of these symbols and the values they represent.

Source: PUNCH