National Coat of Arms Symbols and Meanings

The Nigerian Coat of Arms was designed and created in May 1960. However, it was not adopted until 1975. The Coat of Arms is one of the most important National symbol of the country as it carries profound meaning that reflects the Nigeria’s heritage and resources.

The coat of arms of Nigeria consists of a black shield with a wavy white pall, flanked on either side by two majestic white horses. Perched regally atop a wreath of green and white is a is a striking red eagle. At the base is a grassy field, upon which the horses stand and the flower grows, representing Nigeria’s green landscapes and also a banner bearing the national motto: “Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress.”

7 Parts of the Nigerian Coat of Arms and their Meaning

Have you ever wondered what each if the elements of the coat of arm represents? Let’s uncover it together:

1. Black Shield

The black shield in Nigeria’s coat of arms is a powerful symbol representing the country’s fertile soil. This rich, dark earth is the foundation of Nigeria’s agricultural heritage and potential. The black color not only signifies the abundance of natural resources but also pays homage to the country’s African identity.

Nigeria’s diverse climate zones, from tropical rain forests to savannas, contribute to our agricultural prowess, making it one of Africa’s leading producers of crops such as cassava, yams, and palm oil.

2. Wavy White Pall

The Y-shaped wavy white pall on the coat of arms is a geographic representation of Nigeria’s two major rivers: the Niger and the Benue. These rivers converge at Lokoja, forming a Y-shape that divides the country into three main regions.

The Niger River, Africa’s third-longest river, spans 4,180 km, while the Benue River stretches for 1,400 km. The confluence at Lokoja is not just a geographical landmark but also a symbol of unity, connecting different regions and ethnic groups. The two rivers are vital for transportation, agriculture, and hydroelectric power (as in Kainji Dam), playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s economy and development.

3. The Two Horses

The white horses flanking the shield represent dignity, a core value in Nigerian culture. Horses have historical significance in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions where they are seen as a symbol of status and authority.

In the Northern Nigeria, a horse is a high-priced animal whose ownership is often limited to royal families, traditional title holders and the well-to-do. The ‘Durbar Festival’ in Bauchi state, celebrated twice a year, is usually filled with elaborately adorned and decorated horses.

In the coat of arms, these majestic animals symbolize Nigeria’s strength, grace, and forward momentum as a nation.

4. Red Eagle

The red eagle perched atop the coat of arms is a powerful emblem of Nigeria’s strength as a nation. Eagles are renowned for their keen vision, soaring flight, and regal bearing.

In Nigerian symbolism, the red color of the eagle represents the strength and vitality of the nation and its people. The majestic bird also signifies Nigeria’s aspiration to rise above challenges and achieve greatness on the global stage.

5. The Green and White Wreath

Positioned between the shield and the eagle, the green and white wreath is a significant element that represents Nigeria’s agricultural potential. The green color symbolizes the lush vegetation and forests that cover much of the country, while white represents peace and unity.

Together, these colors mirror the Nigerian flag, tying the coat of arms closely to national identity. The wreath’s circular shape further suggests continuity of agriculture and emphasizes the evergreen importance of farming to Nigeria’s economy and culture.

6. The Grassy Field and Flowers

The base of the coat of arms features a grassy field adorned with the Costus Spectabilis, Nigeria’s national flower. This yellow flower, native to West Africa, is found throughout Nigeria and symbolizes the country’s natural beauty. The flower’s widespread presence across different regions of Nigeria makes it an apt choice to represent national unity in diversity.

Interestingly, there’s a discrepancy between reality and representation: while the Costus Spectabilis is yellow, it’s depicted as red in the coat of arms.

7. The National Motto

At the base of the coat of arms, a banner displays Nigeria’s national motto: “Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress.” Adopted in 1978, this motto encapsulates the core values and aspirations of the Nigerian nation.

How to Draw Coat of Arm

Here are some how-to tips that can save you time while drawing the national coat of arms:

• Start with the shield as your central element.
• Use light pencil strokes for easy erasing and adjusting.
• Draw basic shapes first: triangle for shield, stick figures for horses, “M” for eagle.
• Add details gradually: Y-shape on shield, curves for wreath, grass at bottom.
• Don’t worry about perfect symmetry – aim for a recognizable outline.
• Practice individual elements (like the horses or eagle) separately before combining.

Wrap Up

We hope this post has provided you vital information about the elements of the Nigerian coat of Arms and their meaning. We recommend you check out our blog on the national symbols of Nigeria. Also, we challenge to take 3-mins quiz about Nigeria. How well will you perform?