A name, said Morris Mandel, American educator and journalist, “is the blueprint of the thing we call character. You ask, what’s in a name? I answer, just about everything you do.” And David S. Slawson, added to this when he said “names are an important key to what a society values. Anthropologists recognise naming as ‘one of the chief methods for imposing order on perception.” So, on the third anniversary of being in the skies and uniting people with their destinations and families in safety and comfort, I am drawn to ruminate on the name, United Nigeria Airlines.
I recall the commentaries that followed the unveiling of the airline in February 2021 when it performed its inaugural flight from the MM2 in Lagos to the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. The name, United Nigeria, struck a chord and attracted a lot of commentaries, especially on social media. What many did not know was that the brand identity of the airline was a reflection of the strong belief of its founder, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, an Officer of the Federal Republic, on the continued unity and peaceful co-existence of Nigeria. Okonkwo is a firm believer, and strong advocate, of a united Nigeria. For him, Nigerians are “stronger together”.
In settling for the brand identity, Okonkwo expresses his firm belief that unity in a diverse country like Nigeria can bring about numerous benefits for society, the economy, and the overall well-being of its citizens. In essence, he does not see the name “United Nigeria” as just a trade label but a mirror of the aspirations, values, and ideals of a nation striving to harness the power of its diversity and forge a common destiny that benefits all its citizens. The brand name, therefore, represents the hope and potential for a Nigeria where unity, progress, and prosperity are shared by all who call it home.
Thinking through this, one sees the name “United Nigeria” as encapsulating the essence of a nation that is composed of diverse ethnicities, cultures, and traditions coming together as one. The Nigeria that we all know is blessed with a rich tapestry of languages, religions, and customs. The country is home to over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own unique language and cultural practices. Despite this diversity, the country has remained united which is deeply enshrined in its national identity. The name “United Nigeria” therefore, signifies the collective unity and strength of the Nigerian people, despite their differences.
The name further emphasizes the importance of unity in diversity and the recognition of the shared values and aspirations that bind the Nigerian people together. It conveys a message of solidarity, cooperation, and inclusivity among all Nigerians, regardless of their background or beliefs. This means that in a country as diverse as Nigeria, the concept of unity is essential for fostering peace, stability, and progress. And, by embracing the idea of a “United Nigeria,” the country can strive towards a common vision of prosperity, development, and harmony for all its citizens.
In Prof. Okonkwo’s words, “the name “United Nigeria” serves as a reminder of the collective strength that comes from standing together as a nation, united in purpose and determined to overcome any challenges that may arise. It symbolizes the resilience and spirit of the Nigerian people, who continue to strive for a brighter future, built on unity, peace, and progress.” Critically thinking through “United Nigeria”, as a statement in the resilience of a people of diverse cultures and ethnicities, it tends to show that the consistent pursuit of peace and unity would foster a sense of togetherness and shared identity among the diverse ethnic groups in Nigeria. It also promotes social cohesion by bridging cultural differences and creating a sense of belonging for all citizens. This can lead to stronger community bonds, increased trust, and mutual respect among different groups. Who wouldn’t want these?
As a diverse nation of people and cultures, unity will bridge, or, prevent conflicts and tensions that often arise out of ethnic, religious, or cultural differences. This is because when people feel united and inclusive, they are less likely to engage in divisive behaviours or violence. This way, they contribute to the overall peace and stability of the country, creating conducive environment which is a great incentive for investments, growth, and development.
Unity is also expressed in political consensus because a united Nigeria is better positioned to achieve political consensus and make decisions that benefit the entire population. According to Prof. Okonkwo, “unity encourages dialogue, compromise, and cooperation among different groups, leading to more inclusive governance and policies that it reflects the diverse needs and interests of the population.” He also notes that nothing drives economic growth as much as unity does. He argues that “when people work together towards common goals, they can leverage their diverse skills and resources to stimulate innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment. This, in turn, can lead to job creation, increased productivity, and overall economic prosperity because when people stand together as a united nation, they can support each other during difficult times, be it natural disasters, economic downturns, or social upheavals.”
These, to my mind, are what are encapsulated in the name “United Nigeria’, which as an airline, is adding value and expanding choices in the air transport sector of the Nigerian economy. When people travel together, they unite more with their destinations; and broaden their knowledge of themselves, of others, and of their country.
Starting with flights to Enugu and Asaba, from Lagos and Abuja, United Nigeria Airlines has expanded its routes uniting travelers with Anambra, Kano, Sokoto, Benin, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Yenagoa, and Warri through Osubi with more prospects to soon unite Jos and Abakaliki in Ebonyi state. The airline also has its sights on uniting Nigerians with continental and intercontinental destinations with its vision set on the long haul. Therefore, three years is just the starting point because the resilience of its chief visioner is a promise to take the airline to higher altitudes despite the odds. United Nigeria, as a trade identity, is, therefore, not just a brand but a demonstration of the innate capacity of the Nigerian to push the limits in the pursuit of excellence in galvanising the Nigerian diversity for the peace, unity, and development of the country. It is a statement of positivity.