National Symbols and Their Meanings – JSS1 Civic Education Lesson Note (Third Term)

National symbols are objects and signs that represent Nigeria and what the country stands for. They include the national flag, the coat of arms and the currency. Each one has colours, pictures or features that carry a meaning. This note explains what each symbol means.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

• name three national symbols of Nigeria;
• state the colours of the Nigerian flag and what each stands for;
• describe the features of the coat of arms and their meanings;
• explain what the currency is and name its units.

What is the Nigerian national flag?

The Nigerian flag was designed by Mr Taiwo Akinkunmi in 1958. It has two colours: white and green.

• White stands for peace and unity.
• Green represents our rich agriculture.

The flag is placed in important public places, such as schools, as a sign of patriotism.

What is the Nigerian coat of arms?

The coat of arms is an emblem of national unity. The motto of the country, “Unity and Faith”, is written on it. Its features and meanings are shown below.

What is the currency?

The currency is the legal tender (means of transaction) peculiar to the country. It is in units of naira and kobo. The lowest denomination is five kobo (5k) and the highest is one thousand naira (₦1000). The currency is accepted as a means of exchange throughout Nigeria.

Evaluation

1. Who designed the Nigerian flag?
2. State what the white and green parts of the flag stand for.
3. What do the black shield and the two white horses on the coat of arms represent?
4. Which two rivers are represented by the “Y” symbol?
5. What is legal tender?

Assignment

Draw the Nigerian flag and colour it correctly. Write one sentence beside each colour to say what it stands for. Then list the five features of the coat of arms and the meaning of each.