Grow Nigeria
Nigerians are among the most intelligent and resourceful people in the world. You find us excelling everywhere—medicine, technology, hospitality, entertainment, governance, finance—name the field, and I can assure you a Nigerian is making an impact there. But does this abundance of talent reflect in our national development? Sadly, not yet. Our society still falls short of our immense potential. We should be operating on a far higher level than we are currently doing.
I have always been a strong believer in the “Grow Nigeria” ideology. The Nigerian government, through the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN), has already taken a strategic step by launching a framework designed to enhance job creation and strengthen the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.
However, as promising as this initiative is, it cannot succeed on government effort alone. Without the active, intentional participation of the Nigerian people—through our choices, our patronage, and our collective mindset—its impact will remain limited.
Real progress begins when citizens decide to support local businesses, promote homegrown innovation, and invest in the products and services that reflect our own potential. “Grow Nigeria” is not just a policy; it is a responsibility we all share.
So, how do we get there?
The answer is simple: it starts with us—with you and me. It starts with being diligent in our work, doing the right thing even when no one is watching, and choosing to be patriotic. Many of us proudly claim patriotism, but are we truly living it? Patriotism isn’t complicated; it is the feeling of love, devotion, and commitment to one’s country. It is pride in our culture, our history, and our values, and a willingness to contribute to our nation’s well-being.
Supporting Nigeria’s growth means supporting the Nigerian economy. And how do we do that? By intentionally choosing Nigerian businesses, by embracing and promoting our culture, and by representing our country with confidence and pride. When we invest in what is ours, we build the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.
“Grow Nigeria” is not just a government policy—it is a collective responsibility. Together, through our daily choices and actions, we can create the Nigeria we envision.
Now, the focus of my post.
My Air Peace Experience
On my part, I have always tried to contribute in my own little way. Nigerian brands are a staple in my wardrobe—I wear them now more than any other labels. I proudly promote our music, our creativity, and many other aspects of our culture whenever I can.
Recently, I had an unexpected opportunity to show that support even further. I missed my original flight to Lagos and needed an urgent alternative. My dear husband suggested Air Peace, and without hesitation, I agreed.
What a breath of fresh air it turned out to be.
From the moment I arrived at Gatwick, everything felt calm and orderly. I joined the queue, and whilst waiting, the flight crew walked in. I can’t fully describe the pride that washed over me when I saw them—distinguished, confident, and elegant in their beautifully tailored Isi Agu suits.
The Isi Agu, with its iconic lion head motif, is more than an attire. It is a symbol of strength, authority, dignity, and cultural pride for the Igbo people. The igbos say “The strength of the lion is not just in its roar, but in its presence.” And on that day, I felt that presence, deeply.
After checking in, the boarding process was smooth and professional—handled entirely by Nigerians. Once settled for takeoff, my heart swelled with pride as the captain addressed us: Captain David Olateru, Nigerian excellence at its best 😊.
To my delight, the in-flight meal was a wonderful surprise. We were served the smokiest jollof rice I have ever tasted, paired with the famous Oluolu plantain chips and other orishirishi as part of the food package. It was a small but meaningful reminder that Nigerian excellence extends even to the details—right down to the flavors on your plate. The flight was calm, the landing excellent, and soon we were in Lagos, each of us going our separate ways.
The return flight was even more delightful. Our captain that day was Captain David Bamgboye—a proud Igbomina man from Kwara State, and a friend of my husband. If someone had checked my blood at the moment he welcomed us onboard, I’m convinced it would have been green, white, green. That’s how immense my pride was.
Flying with Air Peace wasn’t just air travel; it was a reminder. A reminder that Nigeria has the talent, the competence, and the excellence to stand tall anywhere in the world. A reminder that when we support our own, we lift our nation. Also a reminder that the Nigeria we dream of is possible—if we choose it, daily.
So, what’s the point of my message today?
It is a simple but powerful call: support Nigerian businesses—support Air Peace. Many Nigerians still hesitate to fly with them, but if we truly want our companies to grow, improve, and compete on a global scale, then we must be willing to stand behind them. Progress doesn’t happen by accident; it happens when citizens choose to uplift what is theirs.
So let us keep choosing Nigeria. Let us keep supporting Nigerian businesses. Let us keep representing our nation with pride, wherever we go. The journey to a greater, stronger, more prosperous Nigeria begins with each one of us.
And together—step by step, choice by choice—we will get there.
P.S I must admit, though—whilst at the airport, I spotted Air Uganda and felt a twinge of shame. A whole Nigeria, yet we still don’t have a national carrier! But that conversation is for another day.
For now, I’ll say this with all my heart:
Grow Nigeria. Wear Nigeria. Fly Nigeria. Holiday in Nigeria. Support Nigeria, because Nigeria can only rise if Nigerians choose to rise with her.
Shalom
