Objects of National Consciousness II

CONTENT
1. National Symbols
2. The Coat of Arms
3. The National Flag
4. The National Anthem
5. The National Pledge
6. The National Currency
7. The Nigerian National Passport

National Symbols
People and groups have trait by which they are known; similarly countries have symbols by
which they can be identified. Such symbols stand for authority and remind the citizens that they
all belong to the same country. Some of our National symbols have historical importance. Below
are some our National symbols:
The Coat of Arms
The National Flag
The National Anthem
The National Pledge
The National Currency
The National Passport
The Constitution National identity Card
The Unity Lamp

1. The Coat of Arms

The coat of arms is an emblem which shows the unity of the country and stands for authority
and power. It is also called the ​armorial bearing​.
 ● The black shield represents the good soil of Nigeria.
● The Eagle represents the strength of Nigeria. The horses represent the dignity and pride
of Nigeria.
● The Y shape on the shield represents the Rivers Niger and Benue which flow through
the parts of Nigeria.
● The flowers stands for the beauty of Nigeria as seen from flower called cactus
spectabilis commonly found in most parts of Nigeria.
They are common and found at roadsides and in the coat of Arms stands for Nigerian motto –
the way Nigerians are expected to act or believe.

2.The National Flag

It was designed by a student, ​Taiwo Akinkunmi, ​in 1959. Mr. Taiwo Akinkunmi decided to enter
a competition for the best Nigerian flag design and won. The ​Green color stands for the
country's wealth; rich natural resources. While the meaning of the white color is peace and
unity.The flag was raised at the Independence Day of Nigeria on 1st October 1960 for the first
time.

3.The National Passport

Nigerian passports are issued to Nigerian citizens to travel outside of Nigeria. Nigeria now offers
only electronic passports for new passport applications.

4. The National Currency

5. The National Anthem

Composer of the national anthem Pa Benedict Odiase

An anthem is an important piece which represents the culture of the nation singing it.
Through it, the country demonstrates their beliefs, loyalty and heritage.

The first national anthem in Nigeria was composed by ​Lillian Jean Williams who
created the lyrics as well as ​Frances Berda ​who composed the music. This anthem
used to be the first official anthem.

Pa Benedict Odiase is believed to be the man who arranged our current national
anthem in 1978.