Respect national symbols, NOA DG tells Nigerians on Ordinance Day

By Kunle Sanni –

The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, has urged Nigerians to show greater respect and commitment to the country’s national symbols as the nation marked National Ordinance Day 2025 on Tuesday.

Speaking in Abuja, Issa-Onilu said the national flag, coat of arms, anthem, pledge, constitution, and other emblems of sovereignty represent the unity, dignity, and identity of Nigeria. He described respect for these symbols as both a civic responsibility and a demonstration 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.

National Ordinance Day, observed every September 16, commemorates the handover of Nigeria’s national symbols at independence. The NOA boss encouraged Nigerians to use the occasion as a reminder to uphold the values of unity, discipline, and service embedded in the ordinances.

He also called on schools, communities, organizations, and government institutions to consciously promote respect for national symbols in their daily practices, noting that doing so would deepen national identity and strengthen social cohesion.

The NOA, he added, remains committed to sustained sensitization efforts and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that citizens uphold the dignity of Nigeria’s national symbols.