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

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

Post-Nominals

1. NLLPS – Notable Legacy Laureate of Public Service
2. MLLPS – Meritorious Legacy Laureate of Public Service
3. DLLPS – Distinguished Legacy Laureate of Public Service
4. 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

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

Mode of Wearing

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

Certificate Medal Representation

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

Presentation

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

Ceremonial Notes

1. Awards may be conferred annually or during special events/individual events.
2. 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.
3. The Order is non-political and independent, recognising service, leadership, and societal impact rather than affiliation or position.