₦airaland Forum

Regional Operations Director, Lagos Region, Airtel, Oladokun Oye; Vice President, Segment, Usage & Retention, Dinesh Balsingh; One Million Naira winner, Mrs. Eze Sonlove and her husband with Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Ahmed Mokhles during the prize presentation to winners in the Airtel Red Hot Promo Season 3, held in Lagos on Tuesday.

Director, Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Emeka Oparah; winner of all-expense paid trip to Dubai, Mrs. Obi Victoria; Head, Consumer Policy Development & Monitoring, Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), Philip Eretan with Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Ahmed Mokhles during the prize presentation to winners in the Airtel Red Hot Promo Season 3, held in Lagos on Tuesday

Do you know you can be one of the sixty Nigerians to win One Million Naira or an all-expense paid trip to Dubai in the Red Hot promo?

On a daily basis, Airtel Nigeria is giving out One Million Naira, all-expense paid trip to Dubai, smart phones and free airtime through the daily draws in the Red Hot Promo.

To participate and win in the promo, you need to accumulate points to increase your chances of winning. To earn point you can recharge your line, buy any TalkMore bundle, buy any data bundles, register for Access Money or even call141 (MAMO).

For instance, airtime recharge between N100 - N199 will give a customer one point, while N200 – N499 recharge will earn a customer 3 points. A recharge between N500 - N999 will give customer 10 points, while N1000 – 4999 will get customer 25 points.

To get 60 points, customers need airtime recharge of N5000 and above. Bundle subscriptions such as Talkmore, Premier Connect, data bundle, Android bundle, SMS bundle, International or Roaming bundle gets 10 points each.

With just Access Money Registration or MAMO fulfillment of bundles, a customer can score 20 points, while a transaction on Access Money, MAMO call in, use of extra credit or Value Added Subscriptions like Magic Voice, Airtel Radio earns a subscriber 10 points each.

To check the points earned, just send POINTS as text to 576. The points scored by customers are accumulated throughout the promo.

The Airtel Red Hot Promo, which runs from the 4th of December 2015 to the 1st of February 2016, is open to all customers.

Interesting!

Remi Abere, the leader of the #ClimbWithRemi charity adventure team proudly repping the Airtel Network on Mt. Kilimanjaro

The #ClimbWithRemi team is pushing on with the Airtel Nigeria sponsored charity adventure to the Summit of ‪#‎mountainkilimanjaro‬ to create awareness and support for the plight of Interally Displaced People in Nigeria

Remi Abere and Wife of Ogun State Governor Olufunso Amosun waving the Airtel Nigeria flag on ‪#‎mountainkilimanjaro ‬‪#‎climbwithremi‬

Offers all-expense paid trip to Dubai for 240 people.

60 Nigerians to become instant Millionaires
Everyone is a Winner

Leading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has announced the return of its groundbreaking consumer reward initiative tagged Airtel Red Hot Promo.

According to the telco, this year’s edition of the reward initiative will create exciting opportunities for telecoms consumers across the country as sixty Nigerians will win an amazing Emirates Holiday in Dubai for themselves and any three of their loved ones. Each of the sixty lucky winners will then choose the other three persons who will accompany them on this all-expense paid trip to Dubai.

To add to the excitement, Airtel will create sixty instant millionaires over sixty days by giving out, one million Naira in daily draws over the next sixty days.

The telco added that everyone – customers and telecoms consumers - stand a chance to win big as the promo offers lots of opportunities and prizes, including millions in airtime, smartphones and other mouth-watering prizes.

Announcing the initiative, Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Ahmed Mokhles, said the telco is committed to connecting Nigerians to their dreams and providing credible platforms and spring boards for telecoms consumers achieve their greatness.

“Airtel’s RedHot Promo is a reward programme that seeks to excite and delight Nigerians. It demonstrates our commitment to rewarding our customers for their continuing patronage and loyalty while also welcoming new users to our network,” he said.

To participate and win in the Red Hot promo, customers need to accumulate points by recharging his/her line, buying any TalkMore bundle, buying any data bundles, registering for Access Money or even calling 141 (MAMO)

With a point-based system, customers can improve their chances of winning by increasing their recharges. A higher recharge earns customers more points and puts them in a better position to win big in the promo.

For instance, airtime recharge between N100 - N199 will give a customer one point, while N200 – N499 recharge will earn a customer 3 points. A recharge between N500 - N999 will give customer 10 points, while N1000 – 4999 will get customer 25 points.

To get 60 points, customers need airtime recharge of N5000 and above. Bundle subscriptions such as Talkmore, Premier Connect, data bundle, Android bundle, SMS bundle, International or Roaming bundle gets 10 points each.

With just Access Money Registration or MAMO fulfillment of bundles, a customer can score 20 points, while a transaction on Access Money, MAMO call in, use of extra credit or Value Added Subscriptions like Magic Voice, Airtel Radio earns a subscriber 10 points each.

To check the points earned, customers are expected to send POINTS as text to 576. The points scored by customers are accumulated throughout the promo.

The Airtel Red Hot Promo, which runs from the 4th of December 2015 to the 1st of February 2016, is open to all customers.

It would be recalled that a truck driver, Abiodun Adio, won the grand prize of a 2015 Range Rover Vogue in the Season 2, while Danjuma Ibrahim Yakubu, a National Assembly correspondent with Radio Nigeria Precious FM, in Lafia, Nasarawa State, emerged winner of the N10m grand prize in the Season 1.

The wife of the Ogun State Governor, Olufunso Amosun is also on the #ClimbWithRemi team of 6 women who are climbing to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro to create awareness and support for the plight of IDPs in Nigeria.

The Airtel Nigeria sponsored #ClimbWithRemi charity team made up of Six Women – led by Remi Abere have begun the climb which will last for close to 7 days, through frightful terrains to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit which rises to an altitude of more than 19,341 ft. above sea level. The epic charity adventure is to raise funds for women and children in the various camps for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) all over Nigeria. Here are some pictures from the Charity Adventure which is on right now on Mt. Kilimanjaro. Drop your best wishes for the team

In its continued efforts at providing succour and relief to internally displaced people across the country, leading telecoms services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has announced the sponsorship of an initiative tagged ‘Climb with Remi,’ aimed at raising funds to care for internally displaced people (IDP) in Nigeria. Under the programme, a group of six passionate Nigerian women have decided to climb the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, as part of activities to attract global attention and raise funds in support of government’s efforts at improving the living conditions of displaced women and children in IDP camps across Nigeria.

Backed by Airtel Nigeria, the project is championed by Mrs. Remi Abere, the oldest Nigerian woman to reach the peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro. She is joined by other women including the wife of Ogun State governor, Mrs Funsho Amosu; former member, Federal House of representatives, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa; Mrs. Joke Olanipekun; Mrs. Uzo Nwani and Mrs. Debo Laditan.

This thread will show a daily update of activities of the volunteer climbers on their quest to conquer Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Head, Youth segment, Airtel Nigeria, Segun Aderinokun; Managing Director, Evans Pulishing Group, Lukman Dauda; Chairman, Mobi Tutor Systems Ltd, Ayo Afolabi; and Vice President, Segment and usage retention, Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh at the launch of Airtel Smart Trybe Junior on November 10, 2015 in Lagos

MD/CEO, Mobi Tutor, Barry Taylor; Head, Youth Segment, Airtel Nigeria, Segun Aderinokun; Airtel Smart Trybe Junior Ambassador, Oluwakorede Akande; Winner, Airtel Nigeria's Got Talent, Amarachi Uyanne; and Vice President, Segment and usage retention, Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, at the launch of Airtel Smart Trybe Junior on November 10, 2015 in Lagos

Airtel unveils Smart Trybe Junior Education Platform…Offers over 120 Courses to boost learning experience for children in Pry 1 to SS3

Lagos, Nigeria; November 10, 2015: Leading telecommunications service provider, Airtel Nigeria, has launched a mobile education platform, which is aimed at enhancing the learning experience of children in the age bracket of five to sixteen across Nigeria.

The learning tool which is branded Airtel SmartTrybe Junior, integrates three of the major aspects of education: audio visual, textbooks and test, to deliver more than 120 courses to pupils and students in Primary 1 to Senior Secondary School 3.

The tool offers a 3D interactive multimedia based learning environment designed to help students achieve deeper understanding and higher retention. It also features highly engaging animations of laboratory experiments and lecture notes, classroom approved textbooks and an in-depth compilation of key points and definitions presented as quick study Flash Cards.

In addition, Airtel Smart Trybe Junior enables users access to pre-loaded eBooks, which are exclusively developed for Airtel by the renowned Evans publishers and all the courses are based on the current academic curriculum in Nigerian schools. The study materials are developed in compliance with the Federal Ministry of Education and adapted for pupils and students in the West African sub-region, especially Nigeria.

Speaking on the product, the Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Ahmed Mokhles, explained that Airtel Smart Trybe Junior is part of the company’s contribution towards the development of Nigerian educational sector and also to provide empowerment opportunities for children in the primary and secondary schools.

Mokhles said: “Our aim is to make learning fun for these kids and for them to gain deeper understanding of what they learn in school, using Airtel Smart Trybe Junior. They will also have access to huge repertoire of learning materials which will enhance their understanding of the subjects in their school curriculum and also spur them to academic excellence. At Airtel, we are committed to helping our customers including children and youths to succeed in their endeavours.”

Some of the features include a continuous assessment component that allows students test their understanding of topics on a chapter by chapter basis as well as the Exam Prep component which helps students prepare for promotional exams at every level; Common Entrance, Junior Secondary School Certificate Examination (JSSCE), O-Levels and Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Airtel SmartTrybe Junior comes with exciting parent-child offers. The kids enjoy free calls and SMS to Mum & Dad from kid’s line. In addition to this, 10 per cent bonus airtime is transferred to kid’s line every time the parents recharge. It also offers tariff as low as 20k/sec for Airtel to Airtel calls and 30k/ sec to other network, however, the first one minute call is charged at 40k/sec.

The learning tool is available on regular prepaid SIMs by simply dialing *317# and it works on any android tab or smartphone device. The Smart Trybe Junior tabs are available for purchase from any Airtel shops nationwide.
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L-R, First daughter of late Mrs. HID Awolowo, Mrs. Omotola Oyediran while receiving Airtel’s specially customized SIM "Ikenne SIM" from Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya during the condolence visit to Awolowo family at Ikenne, Remo, Ogun State on Sunday.

L-R, Daughter of late Mrs. Hannah Awolowo, Ambassador Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu; Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya with first daughter of late Mrs. Awolowo, Mrs. Omotola Oyediran during the condolence visit of Airtel’s CEO to the Awolowo family at their residence in Ikenne, Remo, Ogun State on Sunday

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya, has paid a condolence visit to the family of late Mrs. Hannah Idowu Dideolu (HID) Awolowo, who died on September 19, 2015.

The telco’s CEO was at the Awolowo residence in Ikenne, Ogun State on Sunday, November 8th to sign the condolence register.

He was received by members of the Awolowo family comprised of children and grandchildren of the late Mrs. HID Awolowo who was the wife of astute Nigerian politician and nationalist, late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Joke Olanipekun, volunteer/climer, Climb with Remi; Femi Adeniran, Head, PR, Airtel Nigeria; Abike Dabiri-Erewa, volunteer/ climber, Climb with Remi and Remi Abere, Project Ambassador, Climb with Remi at the press conference of Climb with Remi on November 7, 2015.

L-R: Femi Adeniran, Head, PR, Airtel Nigeria; Remi Abere, Project Ambassador, Climb with Remi and Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, participant/climber; and Debo Laditan, participant/climber; at Climb with Remi press conference in partnership with Airtel Nigeria, on November 7, 2015 in Lagos

L- R: Femi Adeniran, Head, PR, Airtel Nigeria, Remi Abere, Project Ambassador, Climb with Remi and Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, participant/climber; at the press conference of Climb with Remi, sponsored by Airtel Nigeria on November 7, 2015 in Lagos.

Lagos, Nigeria; 7th November, 2015: In its continued efforts at providing succour and relief to internally displaced people across the country, leading telecoms services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has announced the sponsorship of an initiative tagged ‘Climb with Remi,’ aimed at raising funds to care for internally displaced people (IDP) in Nigeria.

Under the programme, a group of six passionate Nigerian women have decided to climb the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, as part of activities to attract global attention and raise funds in support of government’s efforts at improving the living conditions of displaced women and children in IDP camps across Nigeria.

Backed by Airtel Nigeria, the project is championed by Mrs. Remi Abere, the oldest Nigerian woman to reach the peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro. She is joined by other women including the wife of Ogun State governor, Mrs Funsho Amosu; former member, Federal House of representatives, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa; Mrs. Joke Olanipekun; Mrs. Uzo Nwani and Mrs. Debo Laditan.

Speaking on the initiative, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya, noted that the telco remains committed towards bringing relief and giving hope to internally displaced persons across the country.

“Through the ‘Climb with Remi’ intervention, Airtel Nigeria has joined these committed, compassionate and selfless women and mothers on the need to sensitise more Nigerians to give and extend love to underprivileged people including women and children who are victims of unfortunate social menace in our society.

“By defying height and other unfavourable conditions known with climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, these women have shown that as individuals or collective groups we can overcome challenges when we unite,” Mr. Ogunsanya said.

At the press launch of the ‘Climb with Remi’ initiative held at GRA, Ikeja, Mrs. Abere, explained that the group is committed to rehabilitating and reintegrating internally displaced women and children back into the society.

She said, “The decision to climb this mountain is a symbolic gesture on our part to demonstrate our eagerness to attempt to identify with the struggle of these women and children – of their need to ‘climb’ out of despair into hope - to take a stand of solidarity with every step we take towards the peak of this mountain, as a reminder to our family, friends, and fellow Nigerians that whatever hardship they perceive we may experience on the mountain can never compare to the constant emotional and physical struggle that these displaced women and children go through just to eke a living.”

She added that the distribution of procured supplies will be carried out in a responsible and transparent manner; supervised by credible international and local relief organizations.

Prior to this, Airtel Nigeria has been extending succor to displaced people through donation of items to various IDP camps in Nigeria.
According to the 2014 report by Internally Displaced Monitoring Centre (IDMC) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), it is estimated that there are 3.3 million persons displaced by conflict in Nigeria – the highest number in Africa. In addition to this figure, the number of births recorded at these IDP camps is expected to reach 60, 000 by the end of 2015.

Through concerted efforts of individuals, corporate organisations and governments, the group hope to alleviate the plight of IDPs in Nigeria.
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Ekundayo Samson Monja a.k.a L.A.S.E, one of the up-and-coming artistes discovered through the Airtel One Mic talent hunt Season 1 has said his target is to make the best of his career after the launch of Airtel One Mic Album. The Theatre & Performing Arts graduate from Ahmadu Bello University spoke on why he never wanted to take part in the Airtel One Mic competition and his plans.

Like the three other Airtel One Mic Stars, L.A.S.E emerged winner through a keenly contested competition held in his school. He later emerged the winner who represented the north region category of the contest.

Not that he lack the courage or didn’t believe in his music prowess, he said he actually didn’t want to enter for the Airtel One Mic contest. “I really didn’t like participating in contest, but during that period my schedule was not tight so I entered for the Airtel One Mic competition. And voila!” I had always known that something good would happen, but I did not know how soon it was going to be. My dreams came true through Airtel One Mic.

“I feel blessed and favoured to have participated eventually. I am deeply grateful to Airtel for this great opportunity. I appreciate Airtel Nigeria and encourage them to do more because there are many more talents out there. A lot of them are looking for opportunities like this and a platform to help them achieve their dreams,” he said.

Speaking on the One Mic Album, L.A.S.E said: “I have two songs in the album, the first one is titled ‘Tripping’ produced by DJ Clem and ‘I love My Baby’ featuring Patoranking produced by Masterkraft. Performing with A-list artistes is a big opportunity for me.

L.A.S.E also spoke on what he likes and hobbies: “My best food is rice and fried stew. Apart from singing I write, direct and act. I have been doing this for a long time. I can say I received huge support from my parents towards my music ambition. I am the first of three kids of my parents. So, my siblings look up to me as a rising star, they are happy to see my videos on TV especially with other big stars in the entertainment industry.”

Concerning the Nigerian music industry, the young entertainer said: “The sector keeps improving day after day though are lots of expectations from fans, music enthusiasts and other budding music talents. Personally, I look forward to American Grammy and other big entertainment awards in Nigeria and outside the country, and that means I just have to work really hard. When I started music I just prayed to God that people will appreciate it and love my style of music. The Airtel One Mic Album launch is the start of our career and we hope to make a success of it.”

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With a blend of Fuji, rap and R&B flavour, Jay Dreamz’s style of music appeals to youths who listen to artistes like Olamide and Reminisce. The talented up-and-coming artiste whose real name is Alalade Olabode Uthman was discovered at Ekiti State University through Airtel One Mic talent hunt show. Some of his tracks are currently playing on the airwaves. The Ibadan-born artiste who is studying Psychology at Ekiti State University shared his plans after the Airtel One Mic Volume 1 album launch.

Speaking in a recent, Jay Dreamz said: “I am thrilled and really excited for this opportunity to perform with A-list artiste with the support of Airtel Nigeria. It is a dream coming real for me. I thank God for everything. I have two tracks in the album, the one I featured Reminisce is titled ‘Magic’ and another single recorded by J-slick titled ‘Don’t Go Yet.’

“Prior to the Airtel One Mic show, I have always been sure that music is my career. I believed in what I do, definitely the opportunity came through Airtel One Mic. I would say it is by God’s grace, because Airtel combed the whole of Nigeria to get just the four of us in various institutions across the country. You know when opportunity comes and finds you prepared, it actually works out for the best. I appreciate the telecoms company for showing us love and helping us to achieve this feat. I really want to say a big thank you to the smartphone network, for bringing out this platform to discover me and others. It is a good initiative by the company,” he said.

Speaking on the entertainment industry in Nigeria, Jay Dreamz artistes need to be distinctive I order to thrive. “That is why I blend my rap with Fuji and R&B flavour. I want my dreams fulfilled every day and I look forward to greater achievements and awards. From the beginning both my Mum and Dad have been very supporting. They encouraged me in my career. I am very grateful to them,” he added.

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New Delhi/ London, October 28, 2015: Bharti Airtel Limited (“Airtel”), the third largest mobile services provider globally, with operations in 20 countries across Asia and Africa (through its subsidiary company Bharti Airtel International (Netherlands) BV), and Eaton Towers, a leading independent telecoms tower company in Africa, today announced the conclusion of the sale and purchase of the tower assets of Bharti Airtel Burkina Faso.

Highlights
· Airtel has now concluded sale of about 9000 telecom towers in eight African countries
· Eaton Towers has acquired 2500 tower from Airtel in four countries - Ghana, Uganda, Kenya and Burkina Faso.
· In each of these four countries, Airtel has committed to a 10-year tenancy contract to Eaton Towers.
· Negotiations between Eaton and Airtel continue as Airtel remains committed to divesting its tower portfolio in other countries.
· Follows Airtel’s and Eaton Towers’ strategies to drive cost efficiencies throughout the industry via the use of shared passive infrastructure.

The tower sale agreements allow Airtel to focus on its core business and customers, to deleverage through debt reduction, and will significantly reduce its on-going capital expenditure on passive infrastructure.

For Eaton Towers, the acquisition gives the scale necessary to provide shared telecoms infrastructure solutions, with its customers benefiting from lower operating costs, expanded network coverage and capacity and improved quality of service.

Commenting on the development, Christian de Faria, CEO – Africa, Bharti Airtel, said: “We are pleased to close this fourth transaction with Eaton Towers and we continue to explore other opportunities to work together. Airtel continues to sharpen its focus on its core business and delivering best in class experience to its customers in Africa.”

Terry Rhodes, CEO of Eaton Towers added: “ The successful conclusion of our transactions in four countries with Airtel, together with the deal to acquire 2000 towers from Mobinil in Egypt, will mean Eaton Towers will have over 6,000 towers and the most diversified tower portfolio across Africa. We value the partnership with Airtel and have improved the operating performance in each of the portfolios we have acquired.”

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As part of efforts to continuously build a healthy workforce and encourage employees to achieve work-life balance, leading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has organised a breast cancer awareness seminar tagged Pink October under its Employee Knowledge Series for October.

The highly informative and interactive Knowledge Series is in line with the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, marked in countries across the world every October to increase attention and support for the awareness, early detection and treatment as well as palliative care of the disease.

The seminar held at the Banana Island Headquarters of the telco was facilitated by healthcare and lifestyle experts who discussed several issues including breast cancer detection and prevention, nutrition, physical fitness among others.

Speaking at the event, Human Resources Director, Airtel Nigeria, Gbemiga Owolabi noted that the telco as a responsible organisation puts great emphasis to the wellbeing of its employees in order to help them succeed both in their career and personal lives.

“The importance of health and wellbeing cannot be over-emphasised. That is why the organisation provides opportunities to inform and enlighten employees through the Employee Knowledge Series.

“As the month of October is known worldwide as a period for raising awareness about cancer, we find it very timely to organise this seminar to empower staff with information they need to know about the diseases, early detection, prevention and treatment. We know definitely that the programme will benefit everyone and also help the organisation build a healthy workforce.”

Also speaking at the occasion, Dr. Femi Olaleye, Managing Director of Optimal Cancer Care Foundation, enlightened the audience on cancer, measures to take in order to prevent, detect and treat the disease.

According to Dr. Olaleye, cancer is caused by cells in the body that are supposed to die after sometime, but somehow failed to die and so they continue to grow abnormally in the body.

“Breast cancer remains the number one disease claiming the lives of women in Nigeria and Africa at large. Early detection can help reduce the risks it poses. Women can either examine themselves or consult an expert to check for signs of breast cancer, because if cancer is discovered early, perhaps when the cancer is like the size of peanut, treatment becomes easy, but if it becomes bigger it is more challenging.”

Speaking further, Dr. Olaleye noted that carcinogenic elements found in cosmetics and other consumer goods increase the risk of developing cancer. He therefore advised that people should avoid products containing cancer-causing substance like formaldehyde which is found in fake eyelashes adhesives, nails products, hair dye and shampoos.

Two nutrition experts, Dr. Patrick Ijewere and his wife, Sherese Ijewere, highlighted the importance of removing toxic materials from the body from time to time and having proper nutrition in order to prevent cancer. They noted that one of the effective ways to avoid developing cancer is to maintain healthy lifestyle and healthy meals.

Also at the seminar was Nollywood star and fitness instructor, Kate Henshaw who encouraged employees to maintain regular routine of fitness exercise in order to remain healthy and fit. She said apart from keeping fit through exercise, the human body releases toxic wastes through sweating thereby keeping the body system healthy to fight cancer.

Employees also had the opportunity to ask questions after the presentations by the speakers. Some staff later joined Kate Henshaw in a fitness workout that lasted about one hour.

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Lagos, Nigeria; 21st October, 2015: Leading telecoms services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has thrown its weight behind the Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh (DRASA) Health Trust to commemorate Nigeria’s first anniversary after the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the country Ebola-free last year October 20th.

To mark the anniversary, DRASA Health Trust, a non-profit organisation formed in memory of the late doctor who risked her life to contain the first case of Ebola in Nigeria, has unveiled robust healthcare initiatives aimed at preventing future outbreak of infectious diseases in Nigeria.

At the event which took place at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday (October 21st), DRASA Health Trust said the health programmes include the Outbreak Preparedness/Response, Simulation Training and #ItStartsWithMe Campaign.

Speaking on the telco’s support to the Trust, Director, Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Emeka Oparah, noted that Airtel Nigeria is committed to offering relief to Nigerians through its various CSR programmes, saying Airtel and DRASA are passionate about initiatives that will transform lives and empower more Nigerians.

According to Mr. Oparah, Airtel Nigeria, as a responsive organisation, gave its support to the government’s team last year by donating items towards the fight against the Ebola Virus.

“It is in the DNA of Airtel Nigeria to continuously strive to proffer solutions to alleviate difficulty or challenges and extend a helping hand to underprivileged people through its charity programmes like the Airtel Touching Lives programme, a revolutionary CSR initiative that has impacted on the lives of individuals, people and communities across Nigeria,” he said.

Commenting on the DRASA initiatives, Trustee member, Dr. Ama Adadevoh, noted that under the Outbreak Preparedness/Response, the Trust will partner with relevant bodies to train 1000 experts across the country on the spectrum of outbreak response for Ebola and other infectious diseases, develop a university curriculum based on the EVD Guide and develop a digital platform of the EVD Guide for further dissemination.

“While under the Simulation Training, DRASA will champion medical simulation for students and health professionals to fill a critical gap and build capacity in medical ethics and infectious diseases.

Speaking further, she noted that both ethics and infectious diseases control are areas where there is limited expertise in Nigeria, however, Dr. Adadevoh exemplified the essence of an ethical medical practitioner when she contained an infected patient at personal danger, making her truly faithful to her Hippocratic Oath.”

The third part of the programme is the #ItStartsWithMe Campaign held last week Thursday, October 15th to mark the Global Handwashing Day.

At the event Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osibanjo was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Mr. Linus Awute, while Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode was represented by Special Adviser to the Governor on Primary Healthcare, Dr. Femi Onanuga. Airtel Nigeria’s team at the event included Head, Public Relations, Adefemi Adeniran; Director, Enterprise, Tawa Bolarin and CSR Manager, Chinda Manjor.

It would be recalled that last year, Nigerian government swiftly responded to the index case which was recorded in July in Lagos, but it was successfully curbed and the WHO declared Nigeria Ebola-free on October 20th.

Late Dr. Adadevoh courageously identified and contained the first case of Ebola in Nigeria. Her heroic efforts prevented an outbreak in Nigeria. DRASA was created in her honor to reflect her passion and continue her legacy of providing high-quality healthcare in Nigeria.

The city of Port Harcourt came alive last week when high the trio of fast-rising comedian, Akpororo; African Queen Crooner, Tuface Idibia and popular on-air-personality, IK Osakioduwa captivated customers of the Smartphone network, Airtel Nigeria, hosted its premier customers to an exclusive business forum in Rivers State.

The interactive business session, which was held at Aztech Arcum, along Stadium Road, availed guests in attendance, the opportunity to gain insights on the benefits associated with being a member of the Airtel Premier club.

Bowote Jeptha a.k.a Akpororo took to the stage during the event to entertain the guests with his wits that sent everyone gasping for breath. For more than 30 minutes, the fast-rising comedian electrified the audience.

Shortly after Akpororo’s performance, Tuface grabbed the microphone to captivate the guests with a live performance, as they relish the delicious meals and refreshing drinks provided by the host. He sang some of his hits songs like 'Ihe Neme', 'Keep on Rocking.'

Anchored by popular on-air-personality, IK Osakioduwa, the event also provided an opportunity for the customers and members of the company’s top management to network and share valuable feedback.

The Airtel Premier is a special V-VIP reward programme specifically designed to offer exceptional and personalized privileges to high value customers on the network.

Some of the exclusive privileges available to members of the Airtel Premier Club include dedicated Relationship Managers, exclusive helpline services, mailbox and website, and automatic enrollment into “Airtel Rewardz”; a point-based loyalty scheme, which provides opportunities for members to win exciting offers from Airtel Nigeria.

Members also enjoy other treats such as access to over 600 premium lounges across the globe with their Premier Cards which also grants them to up to 45 per cent discount at select hotels, exclusive access to designated service points at Airtel showrooms, special invitation to Airtel HNI programme, special delight on their birthdays, anniversary and special occasions, and other high-end tie-ups available to Premier customers in Nigeria.

The event was graced by dignitaries drawn from the public, private and corporate sectors including Dr. Mrs. Julia Jumbo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs who represented the First Lady of Rivers State and from Airtel, Chief Sales Officer, Godfrey Efeurhobo; Ms. Veronica Onoja, Regional Operations Director, (South); Mr. Femi Oyewole, Vice President, Service Experience & CSD, Sarwiyat Rahaman, Head: High Value Experience and Bukola Akande, General Manager, Enterprise Sales; all staff of Airtel Nigeria

wow!

On a daily basis, teachers are actively imparting the nation through the important role they play in educating and inspiring young people across Nigeria. Education International (EI) – the global union federation that represents education professionals worldwide- strongly believes that World Teachers’ Day should be internationally recognized and celebrated around the world.

We at Hopegate Educational Support Foundation are commemorating this year’s World Teachers Day celebration by inviting young Nigerians to help celebrate their teachers through a writing competition on the topic “How has your teacher inspired you?”

This competition is open from today 30th September, 2015 and runs through till the 5th of October. Articles should not exceed 1000 words and should be sent with the name, age, class and school of the respondent to competition@hopegatefoundation.org via email.

Daily airtime prizes of N1000 will be given out to participants and the best article will stand a chance of winning N5000 cash prize on 5th October. The winner would also be revealed on the same day. This competition is open to primary and secondary school students only.

World Teachers’ Day is celebrated in more than 100 countries world-wide and was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 1994 to celebrate the role of teachers in society. The World Teachers’ Day is held internationally on the 5th of October every year. The yearly event is a wonderful opportunity to draw public attention to the significant role teacher’s play in our societies all across the world. You can follow our activities online on;

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Customers can now swap old phones for new ones

Leading Telecommunications service provider, Airtel Nigeria, has launched a new service which enables customers to trade in their old phones for brand new Smartphones.
The service, tagged Airtel Smart TRADE-IN seeks to fulfill the desire of customers to own premium smart phones by simply visiting any designated Airtel showroom to trade-in their old phones. The old phone traded is valued and the amount discounted from the cost of the new purchase.

Speaking on the new service, Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Maurice Newa, explained that the service was designed to help cater to the needs of customers who desire affordable smart phones.

“In line with our commitment to provide services that will continually delight our customers. We have launched this service to offer customers the opportunity to get the latest devices available in the market,” he said.

Mr. Newa further disclosed that customers who want to enjoy the service can also send ‘Trade’ by SMS to 182 and follow the instructions in the embedded link. He also advised customers to visit www.phonetrader.ng online to have an idea of the value of their old phones before visiting a designated showroom for the actual Trade-in.

As an innovative company, he pointed out that Airtel will continue to redefine the telecoms landscape with products and services that will provide rewarding experience to its customers.
“Our mission is to enrich the lives of Nigerians through the provision of exceptional experience and the introduction of this service is an attestation of our commitment”, he said.

He noted that the service is currently available in the Airtel showrooms in Ikeja Mall, Palms Mall, Sanusi Fafunwa and Oba Akran in Ikeja. However, at full implementation, the service will be rolled out in other Airtel showrooms across the country.

In recent times, Airtel Nigeria has taken giant strides that have proven its commitment to enriching the lives of Nigerians through the provision of exceptional experience, and has further continued to unveil innovative products and services that ensure that Nigerians get greater value for their money.

The National Final of Airtel Rising Star (ARS) Season 5 U-17 football tournament kicked off today at the Sports Complex of Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos, with over 90 players made up of three zonal male and female teams, vying for the championship trophy.

The three-day contest, which ends on Saturday, September 5, will feature Benue boys and Plateau girls representing the North region; Port Harcourt boys and girls representing the South region as well as the male and female teams from Lagos State representing the West region.

In his opening remark to flag off the final, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya, noted that Airtel remains committed to creating opportunities that will provide a ladder for talented young boys and girls to climb to stardom, maintaining that the Telco is passionate about unlocking the potentials of exceptionally talented Nigerian youth.

“Airtel wants to be an integral part of local communities and our association with football has strong elements of creating positive change and engagement. ARS is our contribution to building and developing grassroots football in Nigeria,” he said

Meanwhile, ex-Super Eagles Internationals who are serving as mentors and Technical Advisers to the boys and girls have expressed optimism that the teams representing the various regions are already in top form for an exciting and entertaining contest.

Garba Lawal who is in charge of the teams representing the North region noted that the region is coming with a formidable team, judging by the crop of players paraded during the Abuja Regional Championship.

“The North region will parade promising talents at the finals and we are looking forward to an exciting outing. Just like last year we had a solid male team but we lost at the National Final. It was a fantastic game and I really enjoyed it,” Garba Lawal said.

In similar vein, Technical Adviser to the boys and girls from the South region, Jonathan Akpoborie, maintained that the teams are yearning to make impact at the National Finals.

While also looking forward to the finals, Technical Adviser to the teams under the West region, Mutiu Adepoju said: “We are going to see more actions and quality players from the Airtel Rising Star tournament especially in the National Finals where the teams will clash. We will try our best to ensure that we mentor that players who are representing the region and we will try to encourage them to be very strong team that would play fantastic football.”

As expected, the youngsters participating in the tournament have expressed their readiness. 16 year-old striker for Benue State team, Sanusi Usman who won the Most Valuable Player in the zonal contest maintained that his team remains confident as they head to the national final.

“We are happy to have emerged winner in the regional rounds. But the big cup is in the final where we will play against other good teams. We’re ready and will continue to prepare so that our pattern of play will be better and our passes will be sharp. We also want to thank Airtel Rising Star for the seriousness of the competition. They have done well to create the opportunity for us, Airtel is number one when it comes to supporting the youths,” Usman said.

Rita Sunday, who won the Female Highest Goals Scorer in the Abuja Regional championship, also expressed great optimism about the chances of her team. The 17-years-old mid-fielder who plays for Plateau girls said: “We look forward to the final and we are ready to do our best with God’s support we will win the trophy.”

The ARS tournament is a unique initiative of leading telecommunications service provider, Airtel Nigeria. The telecoms company has been providing support for the development of football talents across Nigeria since 2011. It is aimed at discovering talented youths (male and female) of secondary school age and providing them with the opportunity to gain football skills and develop into renowned stars.

Customers of Airtel networks who are yet to update their records as well as register their SIM cards in line with the directives of the Industry Regulator, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), have been offered another window of opportunity to perform this important exercise as the leading telecoms operator has announced an extension of its operation hours in all its showrooms and customer touch points across the country.

According to Airtel, all showrooms across the country have extended their daily operations by two hours every day of the week, Monday to Sunday, in a strategic move to accommodate the recent influx of customers who are desirous of updating their records in line with the Know Your Customer registration exercise.

It would be recalled that the management of Airtel had earlier encouraged all its esteemed customers to update their records in line with the NCC directive.

Airtel had noted that “following the directive from Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure that all Customers on our network, who are yet to fully complete their SIM registration requirements, are barred from using their lines, we wish to inform you that the barring of non-compliant lines has commenced on the Airtel Network.

“If you have been barred or received a message that you will be barred as a result of this process, we appeal to you to kindly reactivate your line or update your records accordingly to continue enjoying our quality services. Please, visit any of our Airtel Express Shops or KYC registration centres across the country to update your Registration details.

“For customers who have duly completed the SIM registration requirements as stipulated by the NCC, please be assured that your lines will continue to remain functional and your services will not be interrupted.

“We wish to assure everyone that Airtel is committed to providing top of the class telecommunication experience.

“Thank you for choosing Airtel!”