Map

The Map of Nigeria

Location of Nigeria in West Africa

Location of Nigeria in Africa

Nigeria is an amalgam of ancient Kingdoms, Caliphates, Empires and City-states with a long history of organised societies. Its boundaries were drawn as a result of trade (from slavery to pepper or ivory) and overseas territorial ambitions of Western European powers in the 19 th century. The name Nigeria was adopted in 1898 to designate the British Protectorates on the River Niger.

Description of the Coat of Arms

At the top of the coat of arms is an eagle, red in colour and mounted on a wreath which is rendered in the national colours.
The eagle and wreath rest on a black shield with a Y-shaped silver coloured wavy band in the middle of the black shield.
Two white horses support the shield on either side.
The base on which the shield rests is coctus spectabilis, a wild flower that grows in many parts of the country.
Underneath all these is the motto of the country: “Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress.”

Symbolism of Flag Elements
The red eagle depicts Nigeria’s strength.
The black shield signifies the fortuitous qualities of the land in agricultural, mineral and solid resources.
The Y-shaped silver coloured wavy band in the middle of the black shield represents the two major rivers in the country, River Niger and River Benue.
The two white horses signify dignity.

Description of Flag 

White vertical stripe sandwiched between two green stripes of equal dimensions.

Symbolism of Flag Elements
White stripe denotes peace and unity and is also symbolic of the Niger River bisecting the countryside.
The green stripes represent agriculture.

 Nigerian National Pledge

I pledge to Nigeria my Country
To be faithful, loyal and honest
To serve Nigeria with all my strength
To defend her unity
And uphold her honour and glory
So help me God.

Nigerian National Anthem

Version 1
Arise, O compatriots,
Nigeria’s call obey
To serve our fatherland
With love and strength and faith
The labour of our heroes past
Shall never be in vain
To serve with heart and might
One nation bound in freedom, Peace and unity.

Version 2

Oh God of creation,
Direct our noble cause
Guide our leaders right
Help our youth the truth to know
In love and honesty to grow
And living just and true
Great lofty heights attain
To build a nation
Where peace and justice
Shall reign.