The Republic of Naoero is the new official designation for what was previously known as Nauru. The abbreviated form will be Naoero, with the code updated to NRO, and the people will be referred to as dei-Naoero.
His Excellency President David Adeang delivered his opening message to Parliament, 20 July, addressing the decision to return the country to its traditional name, Naoero, following extensive discussions.
The decision not to pursue a referendum was reached after thoughtful deliberation that Naoero is not a new name seeking acceptance by the people. It is already the identity of the people, is on the national coat of arms, and spoken in the community; and importantly is allowed by the Constitution.
While a referendum is 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 moment was not about politics, but about identity, heritage, and “preserving the legacy of our ancestors and strengthening the future of our children”.
Naoero is the beginning of renewed national pride, and a new chapter founded on unity, responsibility, patriotism, better health, education, and sustainable development.
The future of Naoero will be built by learning from the mistakes of the past and using their experience to make wiser decisions for the generations to come.
On 29 January 2026, the Constitution (Amendment) (No.2) Bill 2026, proposing to rename Nauru to Naoero, was tabled. This was followed by a layover period of 90 days and the unanimous vote by the members of Parliament in favour of the change. The Speaker of Parliament Marcus Stephen then certified the amendment on 13 May 2026, enacting the change.
International organisations and countries have formally been notified of the change and have begun making the transition.