As Nigeria commemorates National Ordinance Day, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on citizens across the country to demonstrate greater respect and commitment to the nation’s cherished symbols. The appeal was made by the Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, during a nationwide sensitization campaign aimed at rekindling patriotism and deepening national identity.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Issa-Onilu emphasized that Nigeria’s national symbols—including the National Flag, Coat of Arms, National Anthem, Pledge, Constitution, and currency—are not mere ceremonial items but powerful representations of the country’s sovereignty, dignity, and shared destiny.
“Respect for our national symbols is respect for Nigeria itself,” he stated. “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 boss urged schools, communities, and institutions to integrate respect for national symbols into daily practices, stressing that such efforts are vital to fostering unity and social cohesion. He also highlighted the agency’s ongoing grassroots sensitization campaign, which targets over 108 million Nigerians nationwide through town halls, market rallies, and community engagements.
The campaign, which spans all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, includes educational outreach on the significance of national symbols, disaster preparedness, and civic responsibility. NOA has also expanded its digital platforms—including the AI-powered interface CLHEEAN—to engage younger audiences and promote national values.
Issa-Onilu reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian, especially the youth, understands the importance of these symbols and upholds the dignity they represent.