Nauru has officially adopted Republic of Naoero as its new official name, with the government describing the change as the beginning of renewed national pride and a return to the country’s traditional identity.
Under the change, the abbreviated form of the country’s name will be Naoero, the country code will change to NRO, and its people will be known as dei-Naoero.
In his opening address to Parliament on 20 July, President David Adeang said the decision followed extensive discussions on restoring the country’s traditional name.
The government said a referendum was not pursued because Naoero was not a new name requiring public approval.
It said the name already forms part of the country’s identity, appears on the national coat of arms, is widely used in the community and is recognised under the Constitution.
The government said while referendums are intended to determine the will of the people, the name Naoero “has never been lost, but rather waiting to be fully embraced.”
President Adeang said the decision was about identity rather than politics.
He said the moment was about “preserving the legacy of our ancestors and strengthening the future of our children.”
The government said the adoption of the name Naoero marks the beginning of renewed national pride and a new chapter built on unity, responsibility, patriotism, better health, education and sustainable development.
It said the country’s future would be shaped by learning from past mistakes and using those lessons to make better decisions for future generations.
The constitutional amendment process began on 29 January 2026, when the Constitution (Amendment) (No.2) Bill 2026 was introduced in Parliament.
Following a 90-day layover period, Members of Parliament unanimously approved the amendment, which was certified by Speaker Marcus Stephen on 13 May 2026, formally enacting the name change.
The government said international organisations and countries have been formally notified and have begun transitioning to the new name.
