Nigeria's Reality Abroad Misrepresented, Says United Nigeria Airlines Boss

Professor Obiora Okonkwo, the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, has declared his unwavering commitment to remaining in Nigeria, expressing that he cannot envision a permanent relocation from the country. His statement comes as more Nigerians are exploring opportunities overseas, a trend popularly dubbed 'Japa,' driven by the pursuit of enhanced economic and professional prospects.

Speaking in Abuja on Sunday during a reception hosted by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) for Professor Justin Green, the President and CEO of the Global Alliance, Okonkwo asserted that he rarely spends more than a week outside Nigeria. He emphasized that the country's actual situation is often significantly better than its international portrayal.

Professor Green is currently in Nigeria for preparatory meetings ahead of the World Public Relations Forum and the 37th African Public Relations Association Conference. These significant events are slated to occur between November 15 and 21, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.

Reflecting on the 'Japa' phenomenon, Okonkwo noted that emigration from Nigeria is not a new occurrence, though he personally has no plans to join the trend. The prominent businessman highlighted that his extensive international engagements have provided him with a clear understanding of how Nigeria is perceived globally, maintaining that this perception frequently deviates from the nation's true reality.

He stated, “We may not be the best country in the world, but we’re not the worst. But the way we are being perceived and portrayed is nothing near to what we are. I am in a good position to say this because I have lived and studied overseas, do business internationally and travel every other month for one thing or the other. And I know that what they think about us over there is not what we are. I cannot see myself spending more than one week outside Nigeria. I will have to return and go back again, so that I will just feel a little bit relaxed. So as you look at me, I’m not ready to ‘Japa’ from Nigeria. So I hope that with this great opportunity, we will all work hard to ensure they (foreign delegation) leave here with expectations that are surpassed.”

The airline executive further explained that the upcoming global PR gathering presents a crucial chance for Nigeria to present its authentic realities to the thousands of international delegates expected to attend. He described Nigeria's role as host for this forum as one of the most significant opportunities the country has encountered in decades, believing it has the potential to reshape international views of the nation.

“I therefore urge the President and other people who matter to understand that what is about to happen is really a very big thing. And I say once again that it is one of the biggest things after Nigerian independence,” Okonkwo added.

Also addressing the gathering, Dr. Ike Neliaku, the President and Chairman of the NIPR Council, acknowledged Okonkwo as a fellow of the institute for over two decades. Neliaku underscored that Nigeria's capability to host the global PR community serves as an opportunity to demonstrate the country's resilience, diversity, and vast potential to the world.

He remarked, “Nigeria is a great country. No nation is greater than this country on earth. In spite of all we have gone through as a people, we are still smiling, happy, and celebrating. That is the mark of greatness and the resilience of Nigerians.” Neliaku also commended Green for his efforts in fostering greater African involvement within the Global Alliance.

In his response, Professor Green asserted that Nigeria and Africa do not need to justify their worth to the global community, emphasizing that the continent’s abundant resources, vibrant culture, dynamic business environment, and political contributions are already recognized internationally.

Green commented, “Let me tell you, I have travelled around the world. You don’t need to tell anyone about Nigeria or Africa’s story. They already know, because Africa is a continent that is proud of all its resources, business, culture, and politics. It is a very rich continent, and every one of you should be very proud. There is no need for people to be under the illusion that Africa or Nigeria should be telling its own story. This is because the world is watching Africa, and you have shown the world what you can do. They are very proud of your country.”

The World Public Relations Forum is anticipated to draw approximately 3,000 delegates from 126 member nations of the Global Alliance. The Presidency had previously pledged its full support for the event on August 20, which is being coordinated in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation and the NIPR. This assurance was conveyed by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, when he met with members of the WPRF Abuja 2026 Planning Committee at the State House in Abuja.