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.
Issa-Onilu made the call in a statement to commemorate the National Ordinance Day 2025 on Tuesday in Abuja.
He reminded citizens that the National Flag, Coat of Arms, National Anthem, Pledge, Constitution, and other emblems of sovereignty represented the unity, dignity, and identity of Nigeria.
According to him, giving proper recognition to these symbols 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.”
The NOA director general noted that, Sept. 16 is set aside annually as National Ordinance Day to commemorate the handover of Nigeria’s national symbols at independence.
Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians to use the day as a reminder to live out the values of unity, discipline, and service embedded in the ordinances.
He further encouraged schools, communities, organisations, and government institutions to consciously integrate respect for national symbols into their daily practices, adding that this would help deepen national identity and strengthen social cohesion.School supplies
“We reaffirm our commitment to continuous nationwide sensitisation and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that every Nigerian understands and upholds the dignity of the country’s symbols”. (NAN)