Section 23 & 24 of the 1999 Constitution: National Ethics & Duties of a Nigerian Citizens

National Ethics

The 1999 Constitution

Section 23

The national ethics shall be Discipline, Integrity, Dignity of Labour, Social, Justice, Religious Tolerance, Self-reliance and Patriotism. 

(Nigeria as a nation, is to be guided by the following values-

  1. Discipline: the value attached to the obeying of rules or a code of behaviour; this value also includes the value of rewarding those who obey rules and punishing those who do not.
  2. Integrity: the value of being honest and having strong moral principles.
  3. Dignity of Labour: the value that recognises that diligence is good and all forms of work ought to be respected and treated equally.
  4. Social justice: the value that all people deserve access to wealth, opportunities, and privileges
  5. Religious tolerance: the value that recognises that all religious beliefs ought to be respected and treated equally
  6. Self-reliance: the value that recognises that individuals do not need to conform to societal norms but rather, can follow his or her own instincts, thoughts, and decisions.
  7. Patriotism: the value of strongly supporting, defending, and being devoted to our country Nigeria.)

Section 24 (a)

It shall be the duty of every citizen to – 

(As Nigerians, we owe our country to do the following:)


abide by this Constitution, respect its ideals and its institutions, the National Flag, the National Anthem, the National Pledge, and legitimate authorities; 

(Obey the constitution and respect our national authorities and icons;)


Section 24 (b)

help to enhance the power, prestige and good name of Nigeria, defend Nigeria and render such national service as may be required; 

(Promote Nigeria’s reputation and power and defend the country if the need arises;)


Section 24 (c)

respect the dignity of other citizens and the rights and legitimate interests of others and live in unity and harmony and in the spirit of common brotherhood; 

(Live in peace and unity with all others, respecting their own individual rights;)


Section 24 (d)

make positive and useful contribution to the advancement, progress and well-being of the community where he resides; 

(Support the development of your local community;)


Section 24 (e)

render assistance to appropriate and lawful agencies in the maintenance of law and order; and 

(Help government agencies maintain the law;)


Section 24 (f)

declare his income honestly to appropriate and lawful agencies and pay his tax promptly.

(Declare and pay the truthful and complete tax on time.)

Section 25 & 26 of the 1999 Constitution

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