The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to show greater respect for the country by treating its national symbols with the honour and dignity they represent.
The Director-General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, made the call ahead of the 2026 National Orientation Day, themed “Our National Symbols, Our Pride.”
Issa-Onilu said Nigeria’s national symbols go beyond their physical representations, describing them as important expressions of the country’s history, identity, sovereignty, shared values and collective aspirations.
He urged Nigerians to use the occasion to renew their commitment to the country and demonstrate patriotism through the proper use of the Nigerian Flag, National Anthem, National Pledge, Naira, Coat of Arms and other officially recognised national symbols.
The NOA boss paid particular attention to the Nigerian Flag, stressing that it represents the country’s sovereignty and unity and should be displayed and handled appropriately.
He also encouraged citizens to sing the National Anthem with understanding and conviction rather than treating it as a routine activity.
According to him, the principles contained in the Anthem, including unity, justice, peace and service to the nation, should be reflected in the daily actions of Nigerians.
“It is not enough to sing the National Anthem; we must live by its message. The words of our Anthem should inspire us to serve Nigeria faithfully, uphold justice, promote peace and contribute positively to the development of our nation,” he said.
Issa-Onilu also urged Nigerians to treat the Naira with respect, describing the currency as a symbol of Nigeria’s sovereignty and shared economic identity.
He advised citizens to avoid practices that degrade the currency, including mutilation, defacement, spraying and other forms of improper handling.
The Director-General further cautioned against the unauthorised alteration, abuse or inappropriate use of the Coat of Arms and other national symbols, stressing the need for citizens and institutions to follow established standards.
“Our national symbols belong to all of us. They are visual and cultural expressions of who we are as Nigerians. When we respect them, we affirm our respect for Nigeria. When we abuse them, we diminish something that belongs to all of us,” he said.
He explained that the Agency’s observance of National Orientation Day forms part of its broader responsibility to promote patriotism, civic responsibility, national consciousness and values that strengthen national unity.
Issa-Onilu called on schools, government institutions, religious and traditional organisations, businesses, civil society groups, the media and families to use the occasion to educate Nigerians, particularly young people, about the significance and proper use of the nation’s symbols.
He stressed that respect for national symbols should not be restricted to national celebrations but should become part of citizens’ everyday conduct.
The NOA Director-General said the theme, “Our National Symbols, Our Pride,” was a call for Nigerians to reconnect with their national identity and demonstrate patriotism through responsible actions.
He said the Nigeria citizens desire begins with people who respect the nation, obey its laws, protect its symbols and uphold the values of unity, peace, integrity and service.
Issa-Onilu reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to sustained public enlightenment and civic education aimed at improving Nigerians’ understanding of national symbols and strengthening the relationship between citizens and the Nigerian state.
He urged Nigerians to join the Agency in making the 2026 National Orientation Day an opportunity to demonstrate national pride, patriotism and responsible citizenship.
