₦airaland Forum

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The proposed solution of the Agric Minister is to propose Herdsmen colonies http://www.opinions.ng/dambazau-ogbeh-6-northern-governors-meet-plan-herdsmen-colonies-deployment-security-forces/

By Teresia Clark

Resolutions are a hot topic near the end of every year. While many people don’t keep their resolutions for very long, they are still potential tools for bettering ourselves. This is especially true if you’re an entrepreneur.

Entrepreneurs usually have a lot on their plate. They have to motivate themselves and achieve success for the sake of many others too. Below is a list of possible resolutions that a sincere entrepreneur might want to make:

Take A Second First Look

If you’re an entrepreneur, you should be moving at this point. Your business is probably not stagnant; it is either facing problems or some level of success. Whatever the situation is, take the New Year as an opportunity to review just why you became an entrepreneur in the first place. Was it money? Independence? Passion?

When this is done, see if your main motivating factor is still in place. Are you achieving what you hoped to achieve? Make the resolution to either work harder with this specific aim in mind; or if this isn’t cutting it, change your aim. If you started out wanting to better lives for orphan children, you may have lost track along the way. Reset yourself and your goals and have another go!

Hone New Skills

It’s never too late to start learning; your local college would usually have the option of outsiders taking some business courses. You could even think about branching out and learning something that would take your business to new heights. For instance, you can pick up some new knowledge on negotiating, networking, or marketing. This would keep you updated on the best ways to manage your market.

What’s more, furthering your education would also make you a better-rounded person in general and a more productive entrepreneur. If you don’t want to be tied down with courses, pick up a few books in the finance, management, and business section. Plow through them in your spare time and gain immense insight on how to achieve entrepreneurial success!


Enhance Your Hiring Process

Making a bad hiring decision can be very expensive for you and your company. This year, make a resolution to pour your best efforts into the filtering and interview process for future employees. Don’t just look at their resumes; check out their references and actually get to know the candidates a little. The educational background is all very well, but don’t get blinded by an Ivy League education. Focus on which person would be the best fit for the workplace and be ready to work and learn at the same time.

Get Healthy

All too often, entrepreneurs put way too much pressure on themselves. They work long hours; neglect their family life and shun their friends. Along with all this, they also neglect to take care of themselves. The result could be a host of illnesses and diseases that may end up costing them much of their hard-earned profits.

In order to get more out of yourself, you first need to take physical care of your body. This includes getting into a proper exercise routine. You may go for a walk every day, or make a habit of visiting the gym. Work out at least a half hour and gradually bring it up.

Once you make it a routine, you would soon see your stamina increasing and your energy pumping. Additionally, eliminate junk and processed foods. Meal prepping is the key way for a business-oriented individual to stay on top of healthy eating.

Wrap-Up…

The above list is by no means exhaustive. The resolutions an entrepreneur should make are also defined by the extent of his business and his progress so far. However, these general resolutions above are good enough to get any entrepreneur a decent start in the New Year.

source: http://www.jarushub.com/4-new-year-resolutions-for-entrepreneurs/

By I.A Katagum

What’s all this hue and cry about the insinuated increase in the pump price of the petroleum motor spirit. Don’t tell me you have not seen it coming right from the day you advocated for the total removal of subsidy on the product!

By the way, seems like most us back then, were just shouting ‘remove subsidy’ ignorantly without actually having a grasp of what the removal entails. Only that can explain some folk’s resolve to come back here and start singing direct opposite of what they sang earlier. (we can not buy fuel above N145/ltr).

The last time I checked, removal of subsidy on a particular commodity will mean the same thing as allowing market forces, notably those of demand and supply to determine the price of that commodity. By that singular act of removing subsidy on petroleum products, the pump price of these products has become vulnerable to changes in the cost of production.

Just like the way increase in the cost of production of rice will cause a proportionate increase in the market price of rice, same phenomenon will also apply to unsubsidized PMS.

Lest I forget, a barrel of crude oil was selling below $30 when the subsidy was first removed, and that was why we were able to buy fuel at a reasonable pump price of N145/Ltr.

Now that the the price of crude oil in the international market has rocketed to about $60/barrel, common sense should be able to tell you that the pump price of N145/ltr is not longer feasible, else the marketers will be running at loss. Without subsidy, there is no way the pump price of petroleum will remain stable. It will always change to reflect prevailing realities.

As it stands now, the government has got only two options. One of the options, frequently adjusting the price to account for any increase or decrease in the cost of production seems not going to be popular with a good number of the populace. And to suddenly make a U-turn and reintroduce subsidy either directly or indirectly will not speak well of the policies of this government.

Personally, I’m not a fan of subsidy. Even when people took to the streets in 2011 to protest the culmination of the subsidy regime by the Jonathan government, my position was clear.

It’s high time the government takes the bull by the horn and make a decisive move to end this menace once and for all.

source: http://www.opinions.ng/really-want-subsidy-regime-back/

With Africa’s diverse array of cultures and spectacular picturesque locations, it is not surprising that Africa is home to some of best cultural festivals in the world. Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency, shares 4 popular cultural festivals in Africa.

AfrikaBurn, South Africa

This is considered to be based on the popular US festival called the ‘Burning Man’. AfrikaBurn is considered the continent’s most alternative arts festival and it takes place in the Tankwa Karoo, an arid semi-desert area that’s located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa. Everything that happens at the festival is really up to the creativity of the participants as they are given the leeway to create their own art works, their own music and their own performances. It’s such a great festival because of this dynamism; you have no idea of what to expect each year but you are guaranteed a memorable experience. It generally occurs annually between 24th to 30th April.

Fez Festival of World Sacred Music, Morocco

This is an exciting musical festival that happens each year in the medieval city of Morocco. The festival presents a blend of lovely sacred music from around the world. You can expect everything from the whirling dervishes from Turkey, dancers from Bali and chanting Sufi mystics from Iran performed in breathtaking venues like centuries-old regal palaces and atmospheric garden courtyards. It typically occurs annually between 12th to 20th May.

Zanzibar International Film Festival

This festival is widely known as East Africa’s largest film, music and arts festival. It takes place every year in the stunning island of Zanzibar and involves the screening of films from around Africa in venues across the island. An awards night is organized on the final night of the festival to round up the series of events that took place from day one, with exciting musical performances to liven up and create a carnival like atmosphere.

Lake of Stars, Malawi

This festival has actually been named one of the world’s best by the UK Guardian newspaper. The Lake of Stars is a musical festival that takes place on the stunning shores of the Lake Malawi. It features the presentation of local Malawian music by local musicians played with bands and DJs from around the world. It explores a wide range of music from electro to Afro-pop, and while enjoying the lovely and entertaining music, one can enjoy a swim in the lake, relax on the sandy beach or get involved in one of the festival’s community projects.

Source: http://www.opinions.ng/4-popular-cultural-festivals-africa/

In a country like Nigeria where electricity supply is unreliable, this new smartphone from Doogee might be what many of us need…

Even with the big battery phone being commonplace these days, the battery volume of a massive 12000mAh sounds like a myth – but no more! The Guinness record- breaking smartphone, DOOGEE BL12000 is ready to amaze the public when it officially debuts on January 8th, 2018. It is available at the preferential price of $179.99 from January 8th to January 15th at http://www.doogee.cc/sale/bl12000.

Guinness Record-Breaking 12000mAh Battery

The 12000mAh, containing enormous power capacity, is composed of two 6000mAh batteries. The BL12000 is currently the largest battery phone in the world; its battery life is four times that of the iPhone 8 Plus’s.

The 12000mAh has a super long endurance of 42 days of standby time and 90 hours of phone call time. Whether playing games or on a business trip, users can find it very convenient and practical for daily use.
12V/3A fast charging is a must for this massive battery capacity smartphone. The BL12000 takes 4 hours to be full recharged, which performs really excellently considering its four-times larger battery volume.
Furthermore, USB OTG function is supported by the BL12000 for reverse charging to other electronic equipment. Keyboard, mouse or mobile hard disks can be read by the phone directly. Reverse charging video: http:///2CJAx9u

Breakthrough: 130°Wide-angle Front Camera

Besides the superb battery, the camera design of BL12000 is another breakthrough in the handset industry. Employed four cameras, BL12000 makes a difference in cooperation.

Built with dual cameras in the front with one 130°wide-angle lens, the BL12000 performs perfectly at capturing wefie photos wider enough for 10 persons’ group; something that cannot be done with other existing phones.
Meanwhile, two cameras (16MP+13MP) on the rear with FaceBeauty, Blur, Mono and Panorama options produce more professional images for both portrait and scene modes.

New Security: 3D Facial Recognition on 18:9 Display

Referring to the screen, the 18:9 aspect ratio in 6.0-inch Full HD+ display should be a comfortable design while the feature of 3D facial recognition unlocking adds one more safe way to access the BL12000. It sees each face as unique, and the user just needs to glimpse at the screen for 1 second when unlocking.

Click the link to visit the elegant appearance of the BL12000 on YouTube:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7XM_5ughGw

Multitasking: Octa-core Processor

The running speed of the BL12000 is also astonishing. The BL12000 is powered by octa-core CPU which guarantees intense game operating and running multiple tasks, so it seems that the running speed of BL12000 will not be a concern.

The battery myth of the BL12000 has finally become a reality!

source: http://www.opinions.ng/doogee-bl12000-smartphone-debuts-worlds-largest-battery/

cc:lalasticala mynd44

Being in debt sucks and can be extremely stressful, however with determination and discipline, there are some simple and effective ways to get out of it. Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency, shares 4 totally simple ways to get out of debt.

Determine the Amount of Debt You Have

Rather than ‘bury your head in the sand’, look at the reality of the situation, go through account statements etc. and be sure of how much you owe. If your total debt seems high, just remember that from the day you make up your mind and start paying off your debts, it really can only go down from there.

Decide on What to Pay Off First

You need to ‘strategically attack’ your debt and to do this you must first prioritize the pay off of your debts. This prioritization should be based on the time frame you have and the interest rates (if any). If there are interest rates, then it’s best to pay off the debts with the highest interest rates first. Prioritizing the pay off your debts will make it easier to come up with an effective plan to get out of debt.

Get Rid of Temptations

You definitely don’t want to be incurring more debts when trying to pay off present ones. Consequently, you should do whatever you need to do to ensure that you discipline yourself enough to resist falling into the ‘debt temptation’ again. If you have to get rid of all your credit cards and stop using them all together, then you should. If you have to ask friends to turn down your request to borrow money from them, then do it. Basically, whatever you need to do to resist the temptation to borrow should done promptly.

Consider Your Hidden Income

Hidden income more or less has to do with cutting the costs of everyday bills and items (you probably never thought you could save money on), where and when you can. Saving money on these everyday bills and items can easily help to free up more cash towards paying off your debts. Challenge yourself to do this and see just how much you can put together for your next debt payment. It always best to ‘wipe out your debts’ so you can have your financial freedom.

Source: http://www.opinions.ng/4-totally-simple-ways-get-debt/

By Emma Anderson

A lot of what you see written is about mothers making the transition back into the workplace after giving birth and raising children.

Their time away from the workplace can vary depending on circumstances of the family involved. Some mothers return to work as soon as is possible, yet many have a few years off, from having a routine 9-5.

As hard as it is getting back into a workforce, deciding to work from home can have a few hiccups on the way. It is not a matter of starting work from home; there are a couple of things that have to be considered.

It is possible with some careful thought and planning to have the best of both worlds, as this is what the aim is all along. It is not much use if you work from home and you find you still work long hours and have little family time. This you would soon come to see as a failure.

To make sure you end up with a win-win situation when working, I have compiled a few pointers to help you:

Be Upfront on your Needs

Before making the jump to the successful working mother, you have to be clear of what you are looking to achieve.

You need a plan in place to make sure you can care and tend to your toddler, have the times available where you are committed to your work and still have time left for family and family duties.

Once you plan all this into the equation, you will be surprised how much you can get done in a day without burning yourself out. Everything comes down to balance, and once you find this, all aspects of your day will fit together.

Make a Schedule

Use a desk planner, one that shows weeks and even a month at a glance. They are so much more functional than a to-do-list. You can slot times in for your little one, your work projects and your family times.

Once you allocate times for everything you do, you will self-discipline yourself and also become more productive. As a result, you will find that you have more time for your baby and your family as you have already mapped this out in advance.

Time management comes into effect here; it has been shown that even answering an email during your day can distract you for up to twenty minutes before you get back to the work you were doing. Schedule times for grouping all these tasks. Answer emails and return calls, allocate some time and do them all together.

Your Home Office

This is crucial for you to be successful, having an area that is your workplace, everything labeled and filed away. When it is your work time, you should be free from distractions, even if you have family members at home. Until the agreed time, you should make aware; you are out of bounds for any ‘mom assistance.’

Once you have your space, your schedule will fall into place. Depending on your type of work and the age of your baby, your program should be dictated by them. When they sleep, use this as your productive times rather than napping at the same time. You can then spend time with them when they are awake.

There are a good many people who think that working from home is just a matter of falling out of bed and starting work in the comfort of their pajama’s. This is all well and good, yet you will be in that frame of mind for most of the day.

Have your business head on, treat the walk from the bedroom to your office as your daily commuting and have your work head firmly on your shoulders.

As a work from home mom, you have made a conscious decision, you want to work, and you want to spend time with your family.

You can do all of this quite quickly; you just have to draw the line where you see fit. You are the one in charge and dictate how things work for you. Running around in response to distractions will not help anyone, especially your child or family.

A burnt-out stressed mom is no good to anyone, least of all yourself. You might feel like superwoman, and you probably will have to be a good part of the time, especially in the beginning.

With the support of your partner, your win-win situation of being a successful work at home mom is well within your grasp.

Be strict, be flexible and keep your mind on what you want to achieve. After all, you are a mother, and we all know how resourceful mothers can be.

Source: http://www.opinions.ng/working-home-new-mom-win-win/

One of the trademarks of Nigerians is that they always love to travel heavy. When you see them at the airport, they are circled by different sizes of luggage. This luggage alongside their clothes usually contains souvenirs and gift items they want to distribute to friends and family members. Visitors who pay them welcome back visits do not expect to return home empty-handed.

The truth is Nigerian travellers need to realise that travelling light is better due to the following reasons highlighted by Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency. Hopefully, this will encourage Nigerians to travel with less luggage.

You will escape baggage fees

Whether you are flying or travelling by road, you cannot escape baggage fees if you are travelling heavy. In fact, airlines and transport companies are always happy when they see a passenger with so many luggage because they are going to make extra money. This alone should make travelling light very attractive to you.

Saves you time

The benefit here is that you will completely eliminate the time waiting to check-in your luggage and it also reduces your risk of missing your flight. In addition, if you travel light, you can easily check-in online.

Your luggage won’t get missing or stolen

With bags all around you, it will be very difficult for you to have eyes on all of them. Hence, it will be easy for thieves to pick one of your bags and disappear with it. Also, you may forget one of them. So, why travel heavy?

You will be able to get around quickly

Traveling light also gives you the ability to navigate situations quickly. Having a heavy bag complicates this. A small lightweight backpack or bag makes transit effortless.

You will learn to shop smarter

Once you realise how amazing it is to travel light, you will begin to look at your wardrobe differently. Rather than just buying more, you will choose clothes that match well with other pieces in your wardrobe or accessories that can transform from day to night. As for gifts, you can buy them when you eventually return home.

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Source: http://www.opinions.ng/5-good-reasons-nigerians-always-travel-light/

You definitely want to book or stay in a very decent hotel despite the amount you pay. However, there are circumstances whereby what you see online is completely different from what is on ground at the hotel. So, how do you know you are lodging in a bad hotel? Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency highlights signs that you are in a bad hotel.

Poor customer service

The way you are treated by the customer service gives you a deep insight into how well the hotel is managed. This said, there are certain hotels whose customer service is mediocre as they offer terrible customer service to their guests.

Faulty door knobs and loose cabinet hinges

This may be minor but they actually reveal the state of disrepair of the hotel. This will make you question the level of security of the hotel especially when you are travelling with kids or minors.

Bugs in the room

Personal hygiene is non-negotiable for every hotel. But because the cleaning is hurriedly and haphazardly done, your room bed may be infested with bugs from which you can contract disease (s).

Foul smell fills the air

If you are welcomed by an unidentifiable smell in your room, you are definitely in a bad hotel. This can be frustrating especially if the hotel takes forever to fix or do something about the smell.

Lack of electricity

A hotel is expected to provide 24 hours electricity as this is one of the ways to attract customers. This is not the case in some hotels as it could take them hours to restore power after public electricity is interrupted.


Source: http://www.opinions.ng/know-bad-hotel/

Smartphones keep us connected, informed and much more. For many of us, they have become more than a simple tech tool, so we should probably take better care of them than we do. Instead of treating them as if they are toys that can be replaced, we should handle them as if our lives and jobs depend on them. Nonetheless, there are certain things we unintentionally or unknowingly do to our smartphones. Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency, discusses them.

Neglecting malware

Malware doesn’t only infect desktop computers. It could do even worse damage to your smartphone. This is because smartphone malware can track your location and steal highly sensitive data as well. It is essential that you take caution when installing apps on your smartphone.

Packing it full

Unless you use an Android phone that accommodates SD card, you can quickly fill up your devices until they won’t work. Without enough storage space, the device may either become sluggish or won’t function. Monitor the space on your device and if possible, use SD cards.

Always leaving it on

Smartphones don’t rest because they are always on even at night. In fact, in many cases, these devices work more than our desktops and laptops. So, make it a habit to reboot it, turn it off at night or shut it down for 30 minutes.

Exposing it to heat and cold

Exposing your device to heat and cold weather conditions can be damaging. Therefore, you should be very conscious where you leave your smartphone.

Keeping your smartphone in your pocket

You don’t want to keep your phone in the back pocket of your trousers or jeans. This might damage or break the device. With your body pressure, the phone might bend or break into two while you’re sitting. If you have to keep your phone in your pocket, it should be the hind pocket.

Rooting improperly

One of the ways to take control of your device is to root it. Rooting is a bit complicated and should be done by a professional. However, if you decide to do it yourself, there is a high chance of incomplete rooting which may cause your phone to malfunction.



[b]Source: http://www.opinions.ng/6-ways-unintentionally-destroying-smartphone/

The fight against corruption in Nigeria is becoming more systematic and quite a few bank customers could be caught in it inadvertently.

The recent Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) regulatory framework for Bank Verification Number (BVN) operations and watchlist for the Nigerian banking industry mandates financial institutions to apply restrictions on accounts and BVNs associated with fraudulent activities.

As a result banks and other financial institutions have been mandated to report such activities to law enforcement agencies. Some banks have started updating their terms and conditions for opening and using accounts with them to reflect these changes and give them legal cover should they need to take action against some customers.

It is also possible to lose access to multiple accounts in different banks based on one of your accounts being frozen or flagged for fraud. The BVN simply links the other accounts to fraud and you may be liable to lose access to them.

While some parts of the regulations are not new, the effect of the new directive is that you could lose access to your account and your money based on the suspicion of fraud, not necessarily with concrete evidence. Therefore you need to be a lot more careful about your banking transactions and how you conduct business to avoid being negatively affected by the new regulations.



Source: http://www.opinions.ng/lose-access-money-nigerian-banks/

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has acknowledged receipt of a petition written against the Nigeria Army by a journalist following the invasion of the home of the leader of the civil rights group, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, in an exercise codenamed Operation Python Dance which led to the killing members of the group as well as other members of the Afaraukwu community in Umuahia LGA of Abia State last year.

The petition written on September 24, 2017 to the Chief Prosecutor at the ICC, Fatou Bensouda, by Mr. Ahaoma Kanu, an award-winning journalist with National Daily Newspaper, decried the deployment of military personnel to the country home of the IPOB leader leading to killings, torture and human rights abuses perpetrated by soldiers of the Nigeria Army and the Chief of Army Staff, Major-General Tukur Buratai and called for an investigation and prosecution of the personnel involved in the well documented incident which occurred on September 16, 2017.

In a letter dated January 3, 2018 with reference number, OTP-CR-413/17, the Head of Information and Evidence Unit in the office of the Prosecutor, Mark P. Dillon, acknowledged receipt of the letter and accompanying documents while notifying the petitioner that the petition has been duly entered into the communications register of the Prosecutor’s office.

The letter, a copy which was made available to newsmen, reads in parts, “This communication has been duly entered in the communications register of the office. We will give consideration to this communication, as appropriate, in accordance with the provisions of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.”

The letter went on to note that the acknowledgment does not mean that an investigation has been opened, or that an investigation will be opened by the Office of the Prosecutor.

Dillon assured the petitioner that as soon as a decision is reached, “we will inform you, in writing, and provide you with reasons for the decision.”

The Nigerian Army denies this and other allegations of human rights abuses and killings during Operation Python Dance in the Southeast of the country.

Source: http://www.opinions.ng/operation-python-dance-icc-acknowledges-receipt-petition-journalist-nigeria-army/

cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44

These days, it is very easy to spy on you especially if you use a phone as sophisticated as an iPhone. This is why many are much more concerned about their privacy. This said, do you know that there are ways your iPhone is tracking you? Your iPhone tracks you more than you think even if it is without your permission. The good news is that it is harmless. Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency, shares some things your iPhone is probably tracking, whether you know about it or not.

Your location

Your iPhone is likely tracking your location. In some cases and by default, the device saves a list of frequently visited locations to improve its Maps service. To check in on your frequent locations, open up the Settings app and select Privacy. Then, tap Location Services and scroll down to find System Services. From that menu, find Frequent Locations. To stop this, never forget to turn off your location.

Your phone usage habits

Siri does her best to understand users’ routines to better assist their day-to-day life. However, your iPhone performs similar duties in other ways, too. For instance, if you tend to use one app to listen to music above all others, your phone may well have noticed. When you plug in your headphones, you’ll see that app appear in the lower-left corner of the screen. Swipe up over the icon, and it’ll open automatically.

Apps that drain your battery

It can be very annoying when your iPhone battery drains quickly, and you don’t know the cause. Your device is actually tracking which apps are the most taxing, but you might not know where to find this information. Open the Settings app and tap Battery. Scroll down and you’ll find Battery Usage data, which you can view for the last 24 hours or the last seven days. This is a great way to figure out which apps to avoid when the battery does not run out quickly.

Your step count

Most of the records in the iPhone’s Health apps which require some kind of input from the user, but not so with its pedometer functionality. The app tracks your step count since you got your phone. Obviously, it’s much more accurate if you keep your device in your pocket, but even if it’s typically in your bag, you’ll be able to gauge when you were more and less active.

Source: http://www.opinions.ng/4-things-probably-not-realise-iphone-tracking/

A controversy over the appointment of Chinese nationals with dual Zambian citizenship as police officers in Zambia may have been but to rest after the Inspector General of police Kakoma Kanganja cancelled the induction of eight Chinese nationals as police reservists.

The police had initially defended its action as its spokesperson, Esther Katongo explained the recruitment saying it is constitutional:

“These are police reserves. The Police Reserves are backed by cap 117 of the Laws of Zambia known as the Zambia Police Reserve Act. The reserves are there to assist the Zambia Police in maintaining Law and order. They are also vital in Community Policing. The Law does not segregate on race. Police reserves put on police uniforms,” in her explanation.

However many Zambians opposed the move and took to Twitter to express their views. Read some of them next:

What are these Chinese doing in those uniforms instead of Zambians? Zambian youths for defence forces recruitment for 3 years now

— Godfrey Mulenga (@Goldman965) December 19, 2017

When Kanganja banned Zambia Police from marrying foreigners, he really meant Congolese or perhaps Malawians. https:///sveSVAoGo3

— Elias Munshya (@eliasmunshya) December 18, 2017

Why China of all countries? We need to realise the agenda of China in Africa otherwise soon Zambia will be the first country in Africa to be taken over by China at the rate we are exposing ourselves.

— Parton Kaoma (@PartonKaoma) December 18, 2017

The population of Chinese living in Africa is rapidly expanding as China seeks to expand business opportunities and employment for its citizens in the continent.

Shocking stuff- Multiple angles of what really happened after the explosion http://www.opinions.ng/watch-shocking-tanker-explosion-festac-town-many-cars-burnt/

What about those selling it as mint notes? Those should be declared enemies of the state.

By Omolaoye Kunle (ACA)

If you ever consult a friend or family for places to invest, the word ‘real estate’ is sure to pop-up probably nine out of ten times. This is because for many generations, one simple rule regarding real estate was considered sacrosanct—buy now at a very cheap price, see the price grow, and sell it later in the nearest or far future.

Lo and behold, it is not an ideal way to invest in real estate, if some factors are not considered . You could buy a land or an apartment in a considered profitable location, but if you do it without considering certain aspects, you set yourself up for loss. The reasons for this are not far-fetched, the following guides for investing in real estate market will be of great advantage to you.

1. Maintenance

Quite often, people end-up buying real estate without thinking about the whether they can afford it. Now, let’s say you purchased an apartment in an estate in Lekki Phase 1, Ikoyi or Eko Atlantic part of the Lagos. Can you afford the maintenance and upkeep of the residence? This alone with the loan you took to facilitate the purchase in the first case. Remember, it is not just about buying, maintenance is often a tougher act to handle. Though some buyers buy through their accumulated wealth, yet you still have to maintain.

2. Understand what appreciates

The rule mentioned in the first paragraph of my article: buy now for cheap, see the price grow, sell. People assume it applies to all types of properties, it does not. A residence or home may see its value depreciate because of the locality’s reputation or because people consider it as a bad investment due to superstition. The price of land will always appreciate, nothing else. Therefore, consider what’s the prospect of a particular location you want to invest in.

3. State of liquidity

One of the major reasons people buy real estate is to sell it once the price appreciates, a few good examples are Lagos, Abuja and Dubai Real Estate Investors. It is an excellent way to gain wealth but this market is highly illiquid. It takes years for many people to sell their property. So think twice and take a thorough consideration of the future market indicators before investing.

4. Be Wary

When you are checking out a property, be wary of what the realtor or broker tells you. Right from the carpet area or built-up area to amenities and designer residences, their job is to sell you the property and collect their 5% -10% commission. You need to keep your ears and eyes out for any deviation from their sales pitches.

Investment in the real estate market is a long-term act. Make sure you do not regret doing so.

Source: http://www.opinions.ng/simple-rules-guiding-investment-real-estate/

cc: Lalasticlala, Mund44

An excellent report.

People travelled for different reasons in the past. Some travelled to visit families, others to attend a ceremony such as a wedding or birthday or a religious programme, while some others travelled to enjoy a few days of quiet and relaxation at some place far away from home. In the last decade, people have started traveling for a different purpose: to discover and taste the food in cities, rural areas and countries throughout the world. This type of travel has become what is now known today as culinary tourism or food tourism. Its purpose is to visit destinations primarily to taste and experience different foods that are popularly growing in different countries.

This type of tourism used to be seen as a special interest tourism primarily because it’s a niche market that combined best of travel with the enjoyment of discovering new foods and beverages. Culinary tourism now includes people who travel exclusively to search for and enjoy prepared foods and drinks. Eating is a physical need as well as a social and cultural activity. When tourists eat at a destination, they don’t only satisfy their hunger but also experience the local culture and interact with their hosts. Tourists’ demand for local foods, however, occur at different levels of intensity because tourists view local foods in different ways. For instance, some travel basically for gastronomy in the region; some see local food as a by-product of their cultural experiences; and some others rather familiar food when they travel.

Culinary tourists go beyond just tasting different local foods; they endeavour to visit the local produce markets and local farmers to examine how fruits and vegetables are grown, learn about how exotic spices are grown or watch how specialty foods are prepared. The benefits of culinary tourism are more for the local community than for the tourists, such as, helping the local farmers, creating new restaurants or dining experiences, overnight stay in local hotels, educating visitors about the local cultures and their way of life. One of the top benefits will be the development or expansion of local businesses, restaurants, guided driving or walking tour, and a fantastic experiences consequent of their quest for an outstanding experience. Remember, travelling is about collating experiences and taking home memories of the places visited.
So, do you remember that special food you tasted or a glass of wine from a local vineyard? What are some of the mouth-watering local cuisines that can definitely drive tourists’ footfall to Nigeria? Jumia Food, Nigeria’s No.1 online food ordering platform shares 3 food categories that are bound to attract inbound tourists.

Rice Based Foods

Ofada Rice: This delicious Nigerian meal with a unique aroma native to the South West; it is best enjoyed with fried stew. If you’re looking for hot & spicy Nigerian food, Ofada rice is top on the list. It tastes like Vindaloo (Indian Curry) and is mostly for those who have natural coolers in their mouth to douse the fire that this stew brings to the palate. You’ll probably need 40 habanero peppers to prepare a small pot of Ofada Stew. There are a few restaurants in Lagos that sell the best Ofadas; be careful not to taste imitation.

Tuwo Shinkafa: Thick rice pudding usually eaten with “miyan kuka” (a thick soup) and goat meat stew or “miyan taushe”, a pumpkin stew made with spinach, meat (usually goat or mutton) and smoked fish. It is primarily served in the northern part of the country.

Meat Based Foods

Suya: from the north of Nigeria, is grilled meat coated with ground chili pepper, peanut powder, and other local spices. It is prepared barbecue-style on a stick. This is one of the most famous Nigerian delicacies and can be found within easy reach all over the country

Kilishi: is made from meat that has been cut into very thin slices, which are then spread out to dry. A preparation of chili pepper, spices and local herbs is then prepared into a paste which is lightly brushed on both sides. This is then briefly grilled.

Soup & Stew Based Foods

Banga Soup: Banga soup is made from palm nuts and is eaten primarily in the south and mid-western of Nigeria. Nigerian Banga Soup or Ofe Akwu is native to the Niger Delta and the South Eastern parts of Nigeria. In the Niger Delta areas, Banga soup is commonly eaten with various fufu recipes: Starch, Pounded Yam, Semolina, Garri and Cassava Fufu. In the South Eastern parts of Nigeria, Banga Soup is referred to as Ofe Akwu where Ofe means Soup / Stew and Akwu means palm fruit and is used mainly as stew for Boiled White Rice.

Source: http://www.opinions.ng/culinary-tourism-foods-nigerians-can-use-attract-tourists/

cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44

kennygee:
Many will still want to be in her shoes, even me.

Her problem must be spiritual.

With a good job to afford her lifestyle, wetin person dey find?

As long as its not runs you're doing or anything illegal, make she go wash her head with cele pple.

How old are you?

Have you ever wondered exactly what the way you eat says about you? You honestly can learn a lot about a person by just observing the way they eat. Jumia Food, Nigeria’s no. 1 online food ordering platform, shares 5 things your eating habit says about you.

Being a Slow Eater

The slow eater is almost always the last person to finish his/her food when everyone else has long been done with theirs. Some psychologists who specialize in food behaviours believe that this food behaviour is synonymous with people who like to be in control and know how to appreciate life. However, these psychologists do admit that sometimes people may eat slowly because of low energy or a sad mood, as mood is known to affect our eating rate. They also add that though slow eaters might many times feel pressured to catch up to everyone else, there are actually some real health benefits to being a slow eater, some of which include decreased energy intake, increased satiety and higher pleasantness ratings of meals.

Being a Fast Eater

Much like the name implies, the fast eater tends to ‘barrel through meals’, finishing his/her meal before everyone else has even finished half of their meals. Fast eaters are generally believed to have developed a habit of fighting for seconds while growing up, and away from the table, fast eaters tend to be ambitious, goal-oriented and open to new experiences. However, they also have a tendency to be impatient and are more prone to weight gain because one of the major health risks that fast eaters have to deal with is weight gain. It is therefore important for fast eaters to always consider how quickly they are consuming food and make the necessary adjustments from time to time.

Being a Picky Eater

This kind of eater is more likely to turn down a chance to taste unfamiliar cuisine, and might hardly ever grow out of their childhood food related likes and dislikes. Also, the picky eater is more likely to ask that their food be served without sauce or with dressing on the side. Generally, away from the table, picky eaters are a little neurotic, typically more reluctant than willing to try new things or step out of their comfort zone, and constantly have to deal with anxiety and anxiety-related issues.

Being an Adventurous Eater


This kind of eater is basically the opposite of the picky eater. He/she is more adventurous and willing to try new things when it comes to food, and this reflects in his/her life away from the table. Adventurous eaters tend to be thrill seekers and risk takers. They’re open to trying new things outside of their experience and comfort zone, and are explorers with a one-of-a-kind approach to life. However, they should be careful not to over-do it and to also understand that not everyone can be as adventurous as they are, they should thus be careful not to pressure others into being as open as they are.

Being an Isolationist

The Isolationist approaches the plate methodically, and typically finishes one food item on the plate before moving on to the next. This kind of eater is generally a very detail-oriented person away from the table, and is sure to thoroughly think things through before taking a step. He/She is also a very careful person and can be very disciplined as well as very stubborn.

Source: Opinions.Ng

cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44

Carbohydrates with sugar serving as a major source serve as fuel for the body. You should not avoid eating to the point that you cannot even stand.

Food is very important for the proper functioning of your body. This is why when you do not eat, your body exhibits certain signs. The concern here is that quite a number are unaware of some of these signs. As such, Jumia Food, Nigeria’s No. 1 food ordering platform, highlights clues you are not eating enough food. This said, you should not use this as an opportunity for binge eating.

Constant hunger

Being hungry all the time is one of the obvious signs that you’re not eating enough food. If your calorie intake declines, your body will send signals that forces you to eat in order to provide the calories the body needs to function. So, do not wait until you are famished before you eat.

You crave sugar

Low blood sugar, boredom and fatigue are the most common reasons for craving sugar. But, if these are not the reasons for your cravings, you are not getting enough quality food nutrients such as protein, healthy fats and fibre.

You feel always exhausted

Undereating affects your energy levels, and mood. You will feel lazy and tired most of the time as well as experience mood swings and this is the result of not eating enough food.

Your clothes don’t fit you anymore

If your favourite clothes are not fitting you anymore, it is time to evaluate your food choices!

Feeling cold

If you constantly feel cold, not eating enough food could be the cause. Your body needs to burn a certain number of calories in order to create heat and maintain a healthy, comfortable body temperature.

Constipation

Constipation refers to bowel movements that are infrequent or hard to pass. Dieting and eating too little food can cause constipation due to a slowed metabolic rate.

Hair loss

It’s normal to lose several strands of hair daily. However, if you’re noticing an increased amount of hair accumulating in your hairbrush, it may be a sign that you’re not eating enough.

Source: Opinions.Ng

cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44

excanny:
This was the guy who hosted the best talk show I know of in this country.

Wrong decision by RC/Max fm. They just lost me as a listener.

They should have created another station for music only like the others do.

Agreed.

The danger is not that the company will not eventually sell decoders or operate but that the likes of DStv, StarTimes and Kwese have already made adjustments to counter the emergence of TSTV. Hence, by disappointing Nigerians with failed promises,  it is starting with a huge integrity and trust deficit that could kill its business.

http://www.opinions.ng/tstv-fails-start-commercial-sales-november-1-promises-free-decoders/

Go and consult your doctor.

Queenlovely:
I never knew people sold their blood until recently. I thought blood was donated. I woke up to a startling revelation that my boyfriend makes money selling his blood to blood banks. I don't know what to do. No wonder he is always at the clinic. What should I do?

If you ask me, na who I go ask?

Very funny.

Anthony Joshua Defeats Carlos Takam in Controversial Fight http://www.opinions.ng/anthony-joshua-defeats-carlos-takam-controversial-fight/

Interesting, waiting for their payment processor.

Well, they declared themselves Independent http://www.opinions.ng/catalan-parliament-declares-independence-spain/

Useful tips especially for those that got scammed by MMM largely due to their own greed though.