Nigerian Coat of Arms Meanings [plus History]

The Nigerian Coat of Arms was designed and created in May 1960. 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. On each side are two supporting horses. It also has on top of it a red eagle. The flower, Costus Spectabilis, is placed at the bottom.

7 PARTS OF THE NIGERIAN COAT OF ARMS AND THEIR MEANINGS.

1. Black shield: This is to reference the country’s fertile soil.
2. Wavy white pall: The Y-shaped pall symbolizes the Niger and Benue Rivers, and their meeting at Lokoja.
3. The two horses: the white houses represent dignity of Nigeria.
4. Red Eagle: It stands for the strength of the nation.
5. The green and white wreath: This rest on top of the shield and beneath the eagle. It doenotes the agricultural potential of the country.
6. The grassy field and flowers: Yellow Flower Costus Spectabilis is the national flower of Nigeria. It is found almost allover the country, and is used represent the beauty of Nigeria.

Fun-fact: the “yellow” flower is wrong depicted as “red” in the Nigerian Coat of Arm.

7. The National motto: This is found at base beneath the shield. It reads “Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress.” It was adopted in 1978. The purpose is to inspire the nation to be united, faithful, live in peace and grow, become wiser and stronger.

Abdulbasit Toriola

Abdulbasit Toriola is an undergrad at the University of Lagos. He still believes Nigeria is the “Giant of Africa”. In his free time, he keenly writes about Nigeria and Nigerians breaking the odds. You can connect with him via any of the links below.