Charter of the Order of Service and Legacy (OSL)

The Order of Service and Legacy is an honour established by IHS-BiRD & L to recognise individuals who have made exceptional contributions to public service, leadership, and nation-building in Nigeria.

Preamble

The Institute for Historical Studies, Biographical Research, Documentation and Legacy (IHS-BiRD & L) establishes the Order of Service and Legacy to honour Nigerians and friends of Nigeria whose lives exemplify outstanding service, visionary leadership, and enduring contributions to public service and nation-building. The Order recognises individuals whose actions strengthen institutions, inspire progress, uphold justice, and advance the values that shape a stronger, united, and prosperous society.

Classes of the Order and Post-Nominals

1. Notable Legacy Laureate of Public Service (NLLPS)

Eligibility: Individuals whose service or contributions have had a remarkable impact at the community and local government levels.

Purpose: Recognises dedication and promise in improving lives, strengthening civic values, and advancing societal development at the grassroots.

2. Meritorious Legacy Laureate of Public Service (MLLPS)

Eligibility: Individuals whose contributions demonstrate sustained service, recognised merit, and significant statewide impact.

Purpose: Celebrates consistent service and achievement that enhance governance, leadership, or social development across a state.

3. Distinguished Legacy Laureate of Public Service (DLLPS)

Eligibility: Individuals whose work or service has achieved regional or professional recognition and exemplifies distinguished excellence in their field or society at large.

Purpose: Honours exemplary service, leadership, and influence that contribute to national progress and inspire higher standards of public duty.

4. Grand Legacy Laureate of Public Service (GLLPS)

Eligibility: Exceptional individuals whose achievements and legacy have monumental national or global significance.

Purpose: Recognises the pinnacle of service and leadership, establishing a historical benchmark and serving as an enduring inspiration for generations.

Principles of the Order

• Service to Society: Each award highlights contributions that uplift communities and strengthen national development.
• Integrity and Merit: Recipients are selected solely on the basis of verifiable service, leadership, and impact.
• Enduring Legacy: The Order recognises achievements with lasting relevance and value to present and future generations.
• Unity and Cohesion: The “Laureate” theme, present across all classes, ensures a consistent and prestigious identity.

Post-Nominals

• NLLPS – Notable Legacy Laureate of Public Service
• MLLPS – Meritorious Legacy Laureate of Public Service
• DLLPS – Distinguished Legacy Laureate of Public Service
• GLLPS – Grand Legacy Laureate of Public Service

Insignia of the Order

The official insignia of the Order shall be a medal/lapel pin representing service, leadership, and legacy.

Lapel Pin

• Circular in shape, slightly convex, with a matte finish, as per the class.
• At its centre, the map of Nigeria merges into a rising sun, symbolising knowledge, hope, and an enduring legacy.
• Encircled by a laurel wreath border, signifying honour, distinction, and achievement.
• Around the rim appear the inscriptions:
  • Above: “Order of Service and Legacy”
  • Below: “Service, Leadership, Legacy”
• On the Nigerian map, the class is denoted by the letters:
  • NLLPS
  • MLLPS
  • DLLPS
  • GLLPS

Mode of Wearing

• The medal/lapel pin shall be worn on the left lapel or equivalent position on traditional attire.
• It serves as the daily, visible mark of recognition and affiliation with the Order.

Certificate Medal Representation

• A ceremonial medal design shall appear in full illustration on the certificate of conferment.
• The medal mirrors the design of the lapel pin and symbolises the ceremonial heritage of the Order.

Presentation

• The official certificate of conferment shall accompany each medal/lapel pin.
• The insignia is personal to each recipient and shall not be transferred, reproduced, or worn by any other person.

Ceremonial Notes

• Awards may be conferred annually or during special events/individual events.
• Recipients receive a formal certificate bearing the IHS-BiRD & L logo, Nigerian Dictionary of National Biography (NDNB) logo, a QR code linked to their biography on NDNB, the insignia of the Order, and the symbolic medal illustration.
• The Order is non-political and independent, recognising service, leadership, and societal impact rather than affiliation or position.