Why We Rebranded: From EGBON to Nova Matches
- Deborah omolewa
- Sep 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 14
When we launched as EGBON, the name felt like home. For Nigerians, “Egbon” means “older sibling,” a term of respect, culture, and familiarity. It represents a trusted member of your family who acts as a guide in making decisions and choosing your partner. It was warm and memorable.
But then came the unveiling.
We dropped the logo and name on X (formerly Twitter), excited to finally share it with the world. And in true Twitter fashion, the debates began.
Some loved it.
But others? Not so much.
“Why use a male head as the logo? What about inclusivity?”
“Why a Yoruba name? Isn’t this supposed to represent all Nigerians, not just one tribe?”
The Twitter feminists dragged us for the male imagery. The tribalist voices said we were being Yoruba-centric. The conversation spiraled, and suddenly we realized something: this wasn’t just about a logo or a name. This was about representation.

Why We Rebranded
We built this platform for every Nigerian and African in the diaspora—students, young professionals, and dreamers searching for community and love away from home.
But our old identity felt limiting. It suggested one culture, one voice, one angle.
That’s not who we are.
We exist to bring all of us together. Hausa. Yoruba. Igbo. Efik. Tiv. Ghanaians. Kenyans. Africans everywhere who want authentic relationships and shared culture, not division.
That’s why we rebranded to Nova Matches.
What Nova Matches Means
Nova → new star, new light, a fresh beginning.
Matches → connections between people, cultures, and communities.
Together, it reflects our mission: to spark authentic, lasting connections for Africans everywhere.
What’s Changing (and What’s Not)
A name that feels universal and inclusive.
A vision that celebrates all African cultures, not just one.
A design that welcomes everyone to the table.
What hasn’t changed?
Our drive to create meaningful connections rooted in culture and authenticity.

EGBON was the start of our story. Nova Matches is the next chapter.
We didn’t just change our name; we evolved for the people we serve.
And this is only the beginning.
The Journey Ahead
As we move forward, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey. The world is vast, and our community is rich with diverse stories and experiences.
Building Connections
At Nova Matches, we believe in the power of connections. Whether you’re looking for love, friendship, or a sense of belonging, we’re here to help you find it. Our platform is designed to facilitate meaningful interactions that resonate with your cultural values.
Embracing Diversity
We celebrate the beauty of our differences. Each culture brings its unique flavour to the table. By embracing diversity, we create a vibrant community where everyone feels valued and included.
Your Voice Matters
Your feedback is essential to us. We want to hear your thoughts on our rebrand. Does “Nova Matches” feel like the inclusive home for Africans abroad you’ve been waiting for? Share your experiences and ideas with us. Together, we can shape a platform that truly reflects our community's needs and aspirations.
Conclusion
As we embark on this new chapter, we remain committed to our mission of fostering authentic connections. Our journey is just beginning, and we are excited to see where it leads us.
Thank you for being a part of our story. Together, let’s create a space where everyone feels at home, no matter where they are in the world.
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In this evolving landscape, we understand that change can be challenging. But it can also be an opportunity for growth and unity. We are here to support each other, to learn from one another, and to build a future that celebrates our shared heritage.
Let’s continue this journey together.
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What do you think of the rebrand? Does “Nova Matches” resonate with you? We can’t wait to hear your thoughts!




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