2025 National Ordinance Day: NOA DG Urges Nigerians to Honour National Symbols

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

At an event in Abuja, Issa-Onilu emphasized that the National Flag, Coat of Arms, National Anthem, Pledge, Constitution, and other emblems of sovereignty embody Nigeria’s unity, dignity, and identity. He described the recognition of these symbols as a civic duty and an expression of patriotism.

National Ordinance Day, observed annually on September 16, commemorates the handover of Nigeria’s national symbols at independence as he emphasized that the occasion should serve as a reminder for citizens to uphold the values of unity, discipline, and service that are embedded in the ordinances.

The agency encouraged schools, communities, organizations, and government institutions to integrate respect for national symbols into their daily activities as a way to deepen national identity and strengthen social cohesion. It also reaffirmed its commitment to nationwide sensitization and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that every Nigerian understands and upholds the dignity of the country’s symbols.