By Chioma Favour
As Nigeria marks National Ordinance Day 2025, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has called on citizens to show greater respect and commitment to the country’s national symbols.
Speaking in Abuja, Issa-Onilu reminded Nigerians that the National Flag, Coat of Arms, National Anthem, Pledge, Constitution, and other emblems of sovereignty embody the nation’s unity, dignity, and identity. He stressed that honoring these symbols is both a civic responsibility and a mark of true 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 DG explained that September 16 is observed annually as National Ordinance Day to commemorate the handover of Nigeria’s national symbols at independence. He urged citizens to use the occasion as a reminder to embrace the values of unity, discipline, and service enshrined in the ordinances.
Issa-Onilu further encouraged schools, communities, organizations, and government institutions to deliberately integrate respect for national symbols into their daily activities, noting that such practices will deepen national identity and strengthen social cohesion.
Reaffirming its role, the NOA pledged to sustain nationwide sensitization campaigns and work with relevant stakeholders to ensure every Nigerian understands, respects, and upholds the dignity of the country’s symbols.
