Proposed New Name of Nigerian And Flag After President Tinubu Change National Anthem
President Tinubu’s Administration may consider a new name and flag for Nigeria following his election, but no official announcement has been made yet. The process of changing a country’s name and flag involves constitutional amendments and national referendums.
The Nigerian Constitution does not provide a straightforward procedure for changing the country’s name or flag. Article 14(1) states that “the name of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be the Republic of Nigeria.” Changing this would require an amendment to the constitution, which can only be initiated by the National Assembly with a two-thirds majority vote in each house or by a national referendum.
Similarly, altering the design of the Nigerian flag would also necessitate constitutional changes. The current flag, adopted on October 1, 1960, consists of three equal vertical bands of green, white, and green. A crest featuring a white eagle holding a shield is placed in the middle of the white band. Changing this design would require following the same constitutional amendment process as changing the name.
As for potential new names and flag designs, various suggestions have emerged over the years from different groups and individuals within Nigeria. Some proposals include:
- United States of Africa (USA): This name reflects Nigeria’s historical role as one of Africa’s most populous and influential countries and its commitment to African unity. The proposed flag design features horizontal stripes of red, black, and green – representing blood shed for freedom, African heritage, and hope – with a golden star in the center symbolizing African resilience and progress.
- Federal Republic of Oduduwa (FRO): Named after Oduduwa, the mythical founder of the Yoruba people who are predominantly located in southwestern Nigeria, FRO emphasizes ethnic identity while maintaining federal unity among diverse ethnic groups within Nigeria. The proposed flag design features three horizontal bands: yellow (representing gold), green (for agriculture), and blue (symbolizing rivers). A white eagle is depicted in the center as a symbol of strength and wisdom.
- Republic of Ijawland (RIL): This proposal focuses on promoting Ijaw ethnic identity within Nigeria while preserving national unity. The proposed flag design includes three diagonal stripes: blue (representing water), green (for agriculture), and red (symbolizing blood shed for freedom). A crab is featured in the center as a symbolic representation of Ijaw culture.**
It is important to note that these proposals are not officially endorsed by any Nigerian political figure or organization at present. Any change to Nigeria’s name or flag would require extensive consultation with various stakeholders across ethnic, religious, and political lines to ensure broad support for such an endeavor.**
