Coat of arms on Senate and House of Reps seal, Nigeria

The Nigeria Coat of Arms: Its Symbols and Meanings

September 8, 2023 Abiodun Adewusi

Just like every other country, the Nigeria coat of arms has its own symbols and meanings. Here, the symbol represents national unity, state power, and authority. It was even created under the Coat of Arms Ordinance 48 of 1960.

Designated as an official symbol in 1975, the coat of arms stands as a replacement to other regional emblems. Before the use of the current coat of arms, every region had its symbols.

What is a Coat of Arms?

According to Wikipedia, A coat of arms is a heraldic visual design on an escutcheon (i.e., shield), surcoat, or tabard. The coat of arms on an escutcheon forms the central element of the full heraldic achievement which in its whole consists of a shield, supporters, crest, and motto. A coat of arms is traditionally unique to an individual person, family, state, organization or corporation.

Contents of The Nigeria Coat of Arms

When you look at the Nigeria Coat of Arms, you will find seven emblems. Each of these items represents a unique feature of Nigerian geography, culture, and identity.

A Dark-Coloured Shield

This part of the symbol represents the fertility of Nigerian soil.

A “Y” made from two white squiggly lines on the black shield

The Y stands for the rivers Niger and Benue. Both water bodies hold as the major inland waterways of the country. Furthermore, they meet at Lokoja in Kogi State.

Two white chargers on each end of the dark shield

These horses stand for the dignity and pride of the Nigerian nation.

A field with flowers under the shield

With yellow colours, this flower represents the Costus Spectacbilis. You can find this plant at any location in the country.

An eagle mounted on the shield

This bird stands for the pride of the Nigerian nation.

A green and white wreath on which the eagle perches

This part of the Nigerian Coat of Arms shows the vast agricultural opportunities in the country.

A band that sports the national motto at the bottom of the shield

Here, you will find the words ” “Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress” printed on the banner. Since 1978, these words were coined for public use. Previously, Nigeria’s motto consisted of the following terms: Peace, Unity, and Freedom.

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That is all you need to know about Nigeria’s coat of arms. Before you forget, Nigeria is the most populous black nation in the world.

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