Flags, Coats Of Arms, Symbols And Monuments Of Nigerian States


All Nigerian regions and territories had their own individual flags and symbols in 1960. This was also the case with the new states that were created in 1967. The state flags usually consisted of the Nigerian flag, with the state coat of arms in the middle of the flag.

However, the Murtala regime (c1975) discouraged the use of state flags. This was at a time that the military regimes of the 1970s were moving us closer to a unitary system by taking over state and private owned newspapers, television stations and universities. States were instead encouraged to use the Nigerian coat of arms, placed in a circle with the name of the state around it, as their symbol.

Some states (e.g., Lagos) resumed using their pre-1975 flags and coat of arms after the return to democracy in 1979.

The return to democracy again in 1999 has emboldened more states to design new flags and symbols (e.g., Cross River, Osun and Bayelsa). Some states have resumed using their pre-1975 flags (e.g., Kano and Lagos), while some states still use their military era symbols (eg Adamawa).

This thread contains flags, coats of arms, symbols and monuments of (1) Nigerian states (2) Nigeria (3) defunct states and regions of Nigeria (4) heads of state of Nigeria

Section 4 (2) of the flags and coat of arms act is still in force. http://www.nigeria-law.org/FlagsAndCoatOfArmsAct.htm

Picture 2: Flags of Nigerian states flying outside the Teslim Balogun Stadium during the 18th National Sports Festival in 2012.

What is the difference between a logo and a coat of arms (heraldic achievement)

There are many good logo designers on Nairaland, but what is the difference between a logo and a coat of arms (heraldic achievement)?

A full heraldic achievement is usually composed of the following:

1) A crest: This is the uppermost part of the achievement. For example, on the Nigerian coat of arms, the crest is a red eagle.

2) Torse: In heraldry, a torse or wreath is a twisted roll of fabric laid about the top of the helmet and the base of the crest. In the Nigerian coat of arms, the torse is a green and white cloth that the red eagle stands on.

3) Supporters: In heraldry, supporters, sometimes referred to as attendants, are figures or objects usually placed on either side of the shield and depicted holding it up. The supporters in the Nigerian coat of arms are the two horses.

4) Shield (escutcheon): In heraldry, an escutcheon is a shield that forms the main or focal element in an achievement of arms: The shield is probably the most important part of a coat of arms. The term can be used in two senses. Firstly, the escutcheon could be the knight’s shield on which the coat of arms is displayed. Alternatively, the escutcheon could be a part of the coat of arms.

The shield on the Nigerian coat of arms is black (representing Nigeria’s fertile soil) and it has a wavy white pall on it, which symbolises the rivers Niger and Benue.

5) Motto: In heraldry, a motto is often found below the shield in a banderole; this placement stems from the Middle Ages, in which the vast majority of nobles possessed a coat of arms and a motto. The motto on the Nigerian coat of arms is, “Unity and faith, peace and progress”.

6) Compartment: In heraldry, a compartment is a design placed under the shield, usually rocks, a grassy mount, or some sort of other landscape upon which the supporters are depicted as standing. In the Nigerian coat of arms, the compartment is a green field which features the red Costus spectabilis, Nigeria’s national flower.

7) Colours: These are the names of the following colours in heraldry. Argent (silver), Gules (red), Sable (black), Vert (green), Purpure (purple), Azure (blue)

1) Lagos

Picture 1: Flag of the Colony of Lagos (1886 – February 16th, 1906)

All Britain’s West African colonies had similar flags. The difference was the letters on the flag (L for Lagos, GC for Gold Coast, SL for Sierra Leone, etc.).


Picture 2: Badge of the Colony of Lagos (1886 – February 16th, 1906).


Picture 3: Federal Capital Territory Lagos (1960-1967)


Picture 4: Lagos State flag 1967-present

Picture 1: Lagos State coat of arms


WHITE CAP “KEREMESI” : This denotes a symbol of authority common to most areas in Lagos State.

AKOKO LEAVES: These are universally used at the installation of Obas and Chiefs in Lagos State and all over Yoruba land to signify longevity.

COWRIES: This signifies the earliest medium of exchange in Lagos State. And the background indicates the colour of foreshore sands common to all the divisions of Lagos State.

WHEEL: It signifies industry and the red background indicate flames generating power.

FISHING ACTIVITIES: It denotes traditional occupation of the inhabitants of Lagos State.

COCONUT PALM: It represents one of the main agricultural products of Lagos State.

MOTTO: Justice and Progress.

JUSTICE: Signifies necessity in the State to give everyman his due without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.

PROGRESS: Signifies the hopes and aspirations of the people of Lagos State for the Future.

THREE LINES: Dividing the shields is shown to demonstrate the present, past and future.


Picture 3: Lagos State Government logo



Picture 4: Seal of the governor of Lagos State

You can see the Lagos State flag on the far right and the Lagos State coat of arms on the seal behind former governor Akinwunmi Ambode.


You can also see the Lagos State coat of arms in this video from 1968. Governor Mobolaji Johnson of Lagos State commissioned the City Hall in 1968 and you can see the Lagos State coat of arms on his car (it takes the place of the license plate).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3m400q-1Jl8

2) Osun

Picture 1: Osun State flag


The seven cowries represent the seven grandsons of Olofin Oduduwa. Their military valour, diplomatic dexterity and trade mastery created wealth and resulted in their expansive kingdom.

The Brown Colour represents the colour of the earth and tone of the skin.

The Ori Olokun stands for the common origin of the Yoruba and their dexterity in technology.

The Colour Band which is the Pan-African flag consists of official colours of the African race: the colour red represents the blood bond among Africans. The colour black depicts the existence of the black race; the colour green denotes the abundance of wealth on the continent of Africa; The gold depicts the abundant mineral resources of Africa.


Picture 2: Osun State coat of arms


The Osun State coat of arms is adapted from the Western Region coat of arms.

The two elephants in the Coat of Arms symbolise strength, service and humility.

The brown colour emphasises the unity of our skin and the soil. A clear testimony that we own the earth.

The cocoa tree symbolises agriculture and the natural resources of the land.

The Y on the shield represents River Niger and Benue which symbolise the link between State of Osun and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The lion stands for Yoruba nobility, dignity and courage while its cushion of ferns represents the traditional lair of an African Lion and the richness of our land.

The two symbols of the Chief’s sword (Ida) and The Mace embody the spirit and purpose of Osun. The Sword is the symbol of the Obas while the Mace is the symbol of the Legislative Arm of Government and the power of the common people as expressed by their elected representative.

The Ori Olokun stands for the common origin of the Yoruba and their dexterity in technology, while the garland surrounding it symbolises chivalry and triumph.

The Timber represents the vegetation as a rain forest zone.

The Indigo colour (Aro) of the upper part of the shield symbolises the common Adire wear in Yorubaland while the Ruby Red colour (Alaari) of the lower part of the shield signifies nobility.

The Motto; Liberty & Service shows these are guaranteed for the people by the government while Justice is moral rightness based on fairness and equity to all irrespective of their status, gender or religion.


Picture 3: Osun State Government logo



Osun State anthem

Ise wa fun ile wa
Fun Ile Ibi Wa
Ka gbee ga
Ka gbee ga
Ka gbee ga fun aye ri

Igbagbo wa ni pe
Bati beru la bomo
Ka sise
Ka sise
Ka sise ka jo la

Isokan ati ominira
Ni ke je ka maa lepa
Tesiwaju f opo ire
Ati ohun to dara

Omo Oodua dide
Bo si ipo eto re
Iwo ni imole
Gbogbo Adulawo


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XsZ1PV8Ak0



Picture 4: You can see the Osun State coat of arms in the seal behind former governor Rauf Aregbesola.

3) Bayelsa

Picture 1: Former Bayelsa State flag



Picture 2: Former Bayelsa State coat of arms



Picture 3: Current Bayelsa State flag (2012-present)


The flag has four colours (white, blue, red and green) and three stars.

The white colour represents purity, honour and truthfulness of the people and their quest for justice.

The blue colour represents the abundance of waters and their inherent resources.

The red colour represents the memory and sacrifices of our heroes.

The green colour represents rich vegetation.

Stars: represent the hopes and aspirations of our people.


Picture 4: Current Bayelsa State coat of arms (2012-present)


The Shark: the aquatic mastery and strength of the people.

Crocodile: the rugged and the amphibious nature of the people

Leopard: denotes strength, agility, resilience, and intellect of the people

The ‘Oil Rig’: signifies the first oil well discovered in Nigeria located in the State which also has abundance of oil and gas resources.

Fishing Activities: the traditional occupation of the Ijaw people

The Sun: the light on the people.

Canoe: denotes the craftsmanship of the Ijaw people

Green Vegetation: denotes the greenery of Bayelsa State with mangroves criss-crossed by rivers, rivulets, streams, creeks, lakes and lagoons.

The Palm Tree: signifies the rich agricultural endowment of the State.



MOTTO: TRUTH, JUSTICE AN D SERVICE

Truth connotes Ijaw

Justice connotes the need to ensure justice for everyone – without fear, affection or favour

Service connotes the willingness of the Ijaw people to always render service to mankind.

Picture 1: Current Ogun State logo (2016-present)




Picture 2: Current Ogun State flag (2019-present)


Ogun State anthem
(Composed by Chief Dayo Dedeke in 1976 and adopted as the Ogun State anthem in 1979)

Ise ya a
Ise ya a a
Ise ya a a
Omo Ogun ise ya a
Olodumare ise ma ya o e e
Ise ya

Enyin omo Ogun e se giri
Ise po fun wa lati se e e
Omo rere ki isa se e
Omo Ogun ki i s’o le e
Ebere gb’eru o o
Olorun mbe fun wa
E tera mose o oIse ya
Omo Ogun ise ya a.

Ogun State anthem performed by stars from Ogun State like Ebenezer Obey, Dayo D1 Adeneye, Adewale Ayuba, Sir Shina Peters, etc.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gx6JT9YxQOg

Picture 3: Former Governor Ibikunle Amosun with the former Ogun State flag.

Picture 4: Former Governor Amosun with the former Chief of General Staff, General Oladipo Diya. Behind them is the Ogun State logo

You can see the current Ogun State flag behind Governor Dapo Abiodun.

5) Cross River

Picture 1: Former Cross River State/South-Eastern State flag (1967-1975)



Picture 2: Cross River State flag (2005-present)


Picture 3: Cross River State logo (2005-present)


Cross River State anthem.

LAND OF OUR BIRTH

Land of our birth we pledge to thee,
Our love and toil in years to be,
When we are grown and take our place,
As men and women with our race

Cross River State our faith and pride
Almighty God all thanks to thee
Our motherland we pledge to thee
Heads, hearts and hands
Through the years to be.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccXtY1g4-PA


Picture 4: Former Cross River State governor, Liyel Imoke, hands over the Cross River State flag to the immediate past governor, Ben Ayade.

Picture 1: Behind Governor Ben Ayade are the Nigerian and Cross River State flags.



Pictures 2 and 3: This flag and logo below were proposed by the Cross River State Government in 2017, but it was criticised and condemned by many Cross Riverians and the government subsequently dropped the idea.

6) Anambra State

Picture 1: Former Anambra State logo.


Picture 2: Anambra State flag (2014-present)


Picture 3: Anambra State coat of arms (2014-present)


The new coat of arms and symbol of Anambra state is made up of the following elements:

UGO DI EBUBE: -Ugo di ebube stands for Royalty, Pride and Excellence in Igbo cosmology. No other bird typifies the Anambra person better than the Royal Eagle.

NKWUNKWU in Igbo cosmology denotes plenty. The pair here represent the wealth of talents that abound in both the male and female citizens of Anambra.

THE NIGER BRIDGE: – This engineering artistry is iconic. The Niger bridge symbolizes the gateway into the heart of the Igbo nation.

IGWEBUIKE.. the 21 active currents…Symbolises our 21 local government areas. This represents the continuous developmental energy of our people

OKIKEOKIKE: – symbolizes dignity, honour, nobility. It is positioned at the base because the foundation of our aspirations is based on the time honoured igbo tradition of truth, honesty and hardwork…..the tapestry on each of the tusks symbolizes the industry, dexterity and creative essence that lead to the height of our achievements.

THE PENNY: – The round coin under the roped pot is the penny of the old days. The penny sign stands for Aku na Uba. We are proud business and craft men who travel around the world doing business…..The circle at the centre of the penny shows our continuing readiness to put at the centre of all our action, God Almighty who is depicted here by a circle – having neither beginning nor an ending.

THE ROPED POT: – The Roped Pot symbolizes the art of metal works among our people. It also represents the history and success of this ancient art.

Ugu leaves and blooming petals of sunflower..Symbolise our prosperity in agriculture and a hearty and cheerful people.



Picture 4: Anambra State government logo

Anambra State anthem

With all our hearts
We pray and ask
God bless Anambra
God bless the shining light that we bear

We are the only ones to make her brighter
The ones to make her better
The only ones to make Anambra shine

With our sweat and blood,
Every breath of our lives
With trust in God
We would lift our homeland high

We believe in togetherness
We’ll build a land of progress
Lift the spirit of Anambra
Lift the spirit of Anambra
Lift the spirit of Anambra, State we love.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saT3gBgRqDw


You can see the Anambra State logo behind the former governor in the photo below.

7) Ekiti

Picture 1: Ekiti State flag



Picture 2: Ekiti State logo


The Woven Cord

The woven cord depicts the culturally homogenous nature of the Ekiti people. Ours is the only state where all the towns and villages are suffixed with “Ekiti”.

The New Dawn

The New Dawn symbolizes Ekiti’s place as the emerging land of opportunities. It symbolizes the hope and optimism associated with the Ekiti people which makes us rise above challenges, to ensure we remain on the path of peace and progress.

The Rolling Hills

The Rolling Hills depict the topography of our land, forming the backdrop of the beautiful scenery. It is the origin of our name “Ile Olokiti”

The Vegetation

The Vegetation depicts the fruitfulness of our land. It symbolizes a land blessed with an abundance of a wide variety of natural resources. It also represents the mainstay of our livelihood – Agriculture.

The Water

The Water represents the springs in EKiti State, particularly the Ikogosi Spring – the only place in the whole world where hot and cold water springs naturally occur side by side. A wonder to the world, a pride to us.

The Book

The Book depicts the enlightenment of the Ekiti people. The Ekiti people love knowledge and celebrate wisdom.


Ekiti State anthem

Oun abajoro kiipe kun

Oun asepo nileye

Ehin ola wa tidara o

Awa Ekiti ati parapo

Kaparapo katun panupo

Awa Ekiti ati gbominira

Okan lawansee

Ekiti, Ekiti ati gbominira (2ce)

Awa Ekiti iwaju laomalo lagbara Olorun

Awa Ekiti okan soso ma ni’wa o lailai


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8x1R3ayiKbA


Picture 4: You can see the Ekiti State logo behind the two former governors. The logo is also on the throw pillow.

8 ) Abia State

Picture 1: Former Abia State flag



Picture 2: Former Abia State logo


Picture 3: Abia State flag (2016 – present)

The Flag: The base theme of the design centers on Black and Gold, which are the nationally allotted colours of Abia State. The gold tells of Abundance & Wealth while Blacks speaks of the people and the fertility of the land.

The flag incorporates the Abia Coat of Arms and a green forward facing pennant indicative of life and progress.

The Background is predominantly
white, signifying peace.


Picture 4: Abia State coat of arms (2016 – present)


Abia logo

The Helm: Black and Gold Eagle
signifying STRENGTH and GRACE.

The Shield: Silver, quartered in Blue, Gold, Earth and Green signifying

LABOUR and ENTERPRISE (Blue) ,
Sun and abundance of WARMTH (GOLD),
Welcoming & Receptive Nature of Abians (Earth)
and Fertility (Green).

The Central Elephant is the Traditional Image of Abia (Enyi).

While The Open Book signifies Education,
Scholarship and The Holy Bible

The 4 Ordinaries are

1. Artisan (Artisanship/enterprising nature of Abians)
2. The Abia Tower (The central Abia Figure)
3. Industry (Productivity in manufacturing and oil & gas)
4. Handshake (Business and commerce)

The base of Marigold
Field: on which The Shield Stands, and
Supported by 4 Palm Trees further signifying fertility and the abundance

Picture 1: Abia State Government logo.



Picture 2: Abia State Governor’s seal.



Abia State anthem (English lyrics).

The Land of Grace and Faith
Thats Abia God's Own State
The Home of Trade and Enterprise
Alpha State We Hail
We Shall Work The Talk
To Tarry on Top
Abia Must Be Great
On Equity We Stand
Together We Can
God Bless Abia

Abia State anthem (Igbo lyrics).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVxXHkN_l-0


Picture 4: Former Abia State governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, unveiling the state logo.

Picture 1: Akwa Ibom State coat of arms (September 2020)

Picture 2: Akwa Ibom State Government logo




Picture 3 and video below: Akwa Ibom State anthem


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-ySz9CFXe0


Pictures 4 and video below: Launching of the Akwa Ibom State anthem, coat of arms and flag in September 2020



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yj6Jytf3bJY

Launching of the Akwa Ibom State anthem, coat of arms and flag in September 2020

10) Oyo State

Picture 1: Oyo State logo (2012-present)


Published on 4 Jul 2012

Governor Abiola Ajimobi has unveiled a new official logo through which the state would henceforth be identified.

The logo includes the shield which represents the corporate amour for law enforcement and protection of the state, the Cocoa House and the University of Ibadan which symbolize a state of many firsts and landmarks of intellectualism and development.

It also includes a talking drum and beaded gourd which, according to the governor, celebrates the deep traditional root and rich cultural heritage of the state.

According to Ajimobi, the galaxy of stars on the logo symbolizes the 33 local government areas of the state and the green fields, with a harvest of agricultural produce, while the last symbol stands for the arable land mass of the state.

Governor Ajimobi, while unveiling the logo at the Executive Council Chambers of the Governor’s Office, shortly after the weekly state Executive Council Meeting, said it was a reflection of the cultural heritage of the state.

According to him, the logo epitomizes the restoration, transformation and repositioning agenda of his administration that would take the state to greater heights.The governor also said that the logo would represent the new identity for the state through which the uniqueness of the state would be appreciated.

He said that this was the first time that the state would have a logo of its own, pointing out that this had really confirmed it as “a pace setter state with a pace setting government.”


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGxwR54-2xU


Picture 2: Oyo State flag


OYO STATE ANTHEM

Aṣíwájú ni wá, Aṣíwájú ni wá,
Aṣíwájú ni wá, Aṣíwájú ni wá,
Ipò aṣíwájú l'Elédùmarè fún wa, ní ìpínlẹ̀ ọ̀yó,


Ìpínlẹ̀ ọ̀yọ́ ẹ jẹ́ k'á ṣe gírí,
Ọmọ ọ̀yó k'á tẹ'pá wa mọ́'ṣé,
Ká bá 'ra wa s'ọ̀rọ̀,
Ká sọ òdodo,
Ká ṣ'oun tó tọ́, tó dára nígbà gbogbo, níbi
gbogbo fún ìpínlè ọ̀yó;


Kò ní r'ẹ̀hìn o, l'ójú mi, Kò ní r'ẹ̀hìn o,
Kò ní r'ẹ̀hìn o, nígbà a tèmi, Kò ní r'ẹ̀hìn o;
Èmí á ṣ'oun tó tọ́, tó dára nígbà gbogbo, níbi
gbogbo fún ìpínlè ọ̀yó;


Aṣíwájú ni wá, Aṣíwájú ni wá,
Aṣíwájú ni wá, A...ṣíwájú ni wá.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCuuHFzpsg8


Picture 4: Late Governor Ajimobi unveiling the Oyo State logo.

11) Kwara State

Picture 1: Kwara State flag (1967-1975)



Picture 2: Kwara State logo (2012-present)

The green element and livestock stand for our commitment to agriculture, while there are other elements that explained our links with the north and the south.

“As a state, Kwara is strategically located as a link between the north and the south. As such, we stand a better place for economic transformation of the country,”


Picture 3: Kwara State Government logo.



Picture 5: You can see the Kwara State logo behind former governor Abdulfatah Ahmed.

You can see the Kano State coat of arms behind former governor Ganduje in the Kano State council chamber.

13) Kaduna State

Picture 1: Kaduna/North Central State flag (1967-1975)



Picture 2: Kaduna/North Central State coat of arms (1967-1975)



Picture 3: Kaduna State coat of arms (2015-present).


The distinctive features of the logo include its

motto: Work and Worship;

green vegetation, which means Agriculture, Economy, Abundance and conservation.

Crocodile stands for Strength, Resilience, Indestructibility and Ancestry;

while cattle implies Fertility, Abundance and Nourishment.



Picture 4: Kaduna State Government logo

Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai unveils the Kaduna coat of arms.

14) Kogi State

Picture 1: Kogi State logo (2014-present).


Picture 2: You can see the Kogi State logo behind the former governor, Captain Idris Wada and the wife of the former deputy governor, Mrs. Tokunbo Awoniyi.

15) Gombe State

Picture 1: Gombe State logo.



Picture 2: Gombe State flag

16) Zamfara State

Picture 1: Former Zamfara State flag


Picture 2: Zamfara State coat of arms (June 2020)


Picture 4: Zamfara State Government logo

Picture 1: Zamfara State governor’s seal

Pictures 2-4: Tweets by former governor Bello Matawale.

17) Delta State

Picture 1: Former Delta State logo (1999-2016).


Former Delta State anthem.

O Delta State FInger of God
Built on our Nations Pride
Our lands and shores are
Round with love.
A state where leaders
Are wise and just.
So let us free-e-e-e
Let’s rejoice for a new dawn
of a new day
with the FInger of God, marching
in Victory.


Picture 2: New Delta State logo (2016 – present).




Picture 3: Former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa unveils the Delta State logo.