Nauru Officially Adopts Traditional Name Naoero

The Pacific island nation formerly known as Nauru has officially changed its name to the Republic of Naoero, marking a historic step towards reclaiming its cultural identity and heritage. The Naoero name change aligns the country’s official name with its spelling and pronunciation in the national language and reflects a renewed commitment to preserving its traditions.

President David Adeang announced the decision, describing it as a move centred on identity rather than politics. He said the change is about “preserving the legacy of our ancestors and strengthening the future of our children”. The United Nations has already updated its records to reflect the new name following a government request made in June. Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and China have also adopted the new designation on official government websites.

As part of the Naoero name change, the country’s international code will change from NRU to NRO, while its citizens will now be known as dei-Naoero instead of Nauruans. Although many people abroad pronounced the former name as “Now-roo”, the official pronunciation is now “Now-ero”.

Home to about 12,000 people, Naoero remains the world’s third-smallest country by population after Tuvalu and Vatican City. The nation gained independence in 1968 after periods of German colonisation and Australian administration. It later enjoyed economic prosperity through phosphate mining before facing severe financial difficulties when the industry declined.

Today, Naoero is among the countries most threatened by rising sea levels caused by climate change. The government is seeking overseas investment through a paid citizenship programme to help relocate people and infrastructure away from the advancing ocean.

The government also confirmed that lawmakers approved the Naoero name change without holding a public referendum, saying the traditional name has always remained part of the country’s identity, national coat of arms, and Constitution.

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