Nauru Independence Day - Let us get ready to celebrate Nauru Independence Day in festive style!

Nauru Independence Day 2025 – January 31, 2025

Nauru Independence Day is celebrated as a national holiday on January 31 each year. On this day in 1968, the Republic of Nauru declared independence. The 22nd anniversary of the Nauruans’ return from Truk was also honored on this day. Chuuk Lagoon is the name given to Truk nowadays. The day is celebrated all over the island nation with parades, dances, carnivals, and remembering the struggle for independence. Despite being a small country — just 13 square miles — it is quickly becoming a tourist favorite due to its beautiful oceans and beaches.

History of Nauru Independence Day

The Germans governed Nauru until the last years of the 19th century. They had discovered Nauru’s plentiful phosphorus reserves and realized that the island’s natural resources could be a source of great riches. Nauru was controlled jointly by Australia, New Zealand, and England following the end of World War I! This changed during World War II when Japan arrived on the island of Nauru and used it as an airstrip. When the war ended, Australia, New Zealand, and England regained control of Nauru. The administration, on the other hand, was solely the responsibility of Australia.Nauru became a sovereign republic on January 31, 1968, when it declared independence from England. When the Japanese troops landed in Nauru in 1945, they deported 1,200 native islanders to the Chuuk Lagoon (or Truk) as laborers. After the Japanese lost, the Nauruans returned home on this day in 1946. To commemorate this landmark event, January 31 was honored as the Independence Day of Nauru.The national flag of Nauru is the greatest representation of the country. The flag depicts the geographical position of Nauru, a degree below the equator – the Equator is shown by a golden horizontal line and Nauru as a 12-point white star. The white color signifies phosphate, the source of the nation’s prosperity, and each point represents one of the island’s 12 indigenous tribes. The Pacific Ocean is represented by the blue background of the flag. ‘Nauru Bwiema’ is the national anthem. Margaret Hendrie wrote it in 1862, and Laurence Henry Hicks composed the music.

Nauru Independence Day timeline

3,000 Years Ago
Inhabitants Arrive

Nauru is first inhabited by people.

1798
Europeans Discover the Island

They call it ‘Pleasant Island.’

1920
The Influenza Pandemic

The illness wipes out 18% of the population.

1989
Nauru Takes Legal Action Against Australia

Legal charges are pressed for misrule and environmental damage.

Nauru Independence Day FAQs

What is Nauru famous for?

Nauru is best known for its phosphate reserves. It’s the nation’s most important source of income. 

How many people live in Nauru?

Recent surveys show that only 12,000 people live in this island nation. 

What is the life expectancy in Nauru?

Nauruan life expectancy at 39.5 years for men and 48.5 years for women, is one of the lowest in the world.

How To Observe Nauru Independence Day

  1. Visit Nauru

    If you can, visit the island nation on Nauru Independence Day. The pristine beaches make for a splendid tourist getaway.

  2. Learn about the nation’s history

    For such a tiny nation, Nauru has an impressive history. Learn more about the nation’s history and culture on Nauru Independence Day.

  3. Play football

    Nauru's national sport is football. Play football and organize a friendly match to commemorate Nauru Independence Day.

5 Facts About Nauru That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. It is the most obese nation

    71% of its residents are obese.

  2. It is the world’s smallest island nation

    Nauru has only about 19 miles of serviceable roads.

  3. One of the world’s smallest G.D.P.s

    The nation’s G.D.P. is only 102 million U.S. dollars.

  4. English is a widely spoken language

    Almost half of the population speaks English.

  5. The country has no army

    It is one of the 16 countries in the world with no army — Australia is responsible for Nauru’s safekeeping.

Why We Love Nauru Independence Day

  1. It teaches us about a new place

    Many people are unaware of the island nation of Nauru, but that could change on Nauru Independence Day. The day inspires us to learn more about lesser-known countries like Nauru.

  2. It makes us sensitive to history

    Celebrations such as Nauru Independence Day make us sensitive to world history and the suffering and triumphs of other nations.

  3. A reason to celebrate

    We love Nauru Independence Day simply because it gives us a reason to celebrate! Be it football, traditional food, or attending parades — there’s something for everyone!

Nauru Independence Day dates

Year Date Day
2023 January 31 Tuesday
2024 January 31 Wednesday
2025 January 31 Friday
2026 January 31 Saturday
2027 January 31 Sunday