Postbox's Posts
Nairaland Forum › Postbox's Profile › Postbox's Posts
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ... 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 (of 99 pages)
 Politics › Five Actions For Central Banks To Address Biodiversity Risks by postbox(op): 7:17pm On Mar 30, 2022 |
On March 26, commercial banks around the world – including E.SUN Financial Holdings, Garanti BBVA, Santander and UniCredit – turned off their lights in support of the World Wide Fund for Nature’s (WWF) “Earth Hour”. According to WWF: “Our leaders have promised to put nature at the heart of climate action, to secure a safer future for all of us. Now we must make sure they deliver on their promise.” This highlights the growing recognition that it is not possible to address climate without including nature and biodiversity, as managing nature-related risks will play a critical role in solving the climate crisis. Important work has already begun, with the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) recently launching a beta version of its nature risk-management and disclosure framework for nature, with plans to release the final version in 2023. In her Better Banking column for the April issue, Silvia Pavoni spoke to TNFD co-chair David Craig about why a nature-related financial disclosures framework is needed. Of growing importance to central banks and banking supervisors is how biodiversity loss could threaten financial stability. They are now considering their role in addressing nature-related risks. On March 24, a special study group set up by the Central Banks and Supervisors’ Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) and International Network for Sustainable Financial Policy Insights, Research, and Exchange, an independent research network, released a report, ‘Central banking and supervision in the biosphere: An agenda for action on biodiversity loss, financial risk and system stability’, which provides the first global assessment of why and how central banks and supervisors can respond to rising risks from biodiversity loss. During a webinar hosted by the London School of Economics, Ma Jun, chair of the NGFS workstream on research and special advisor to the governor of the People’s Bank of China, said that one of the report’s key messages was that addressing biodiversity, in relation to financial risks, falls within central banks and financial supervisors’ mandate of maintaining financial stability. “While the primary responsibility for confronting the biodiversity crisis rests with governments and environmental ministries, actions by central banks and supervisors can play a complementary role in protecting nature and biodiversity by reducing biodiversity-related financial risks and help guide financial resources to support nature positive activities,” he said. “Addressing financial risks falls within our mandate; biodiversity loss can lead to financial risks, including physical and transition risks.” The latter risk results from the misalignment between a firm’s impacts on biodiversity and developments aimed towards achieving a nature-positive economy. Frank Elderson, a member of the European Central Bank’s executive board and co-chair of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Risks of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, added: “We need to bring this work up to speed in line with our climate-related work. It is clear that we can no longer drag our feet – it is vitally important that we [address nature-related risks] with great urgency.” “As we have a growing body of empirical evidence, this should be a call to action. [Nature] is not less important nor less urgent than climate. And nature is interconnected with climate,” said Sylvie Goulard, second deputy governor of the Banque de France. “The report mentions the risks of negative trade-offs if we deny this [interconnectedness], but there is also a positive side. When you fight against deforestation, you also promote the means to capture carbon dioxide.” The report makes five recommendations for central banks and supervisors: Recognise biodiversity loss as a potential source of economic and financial risk and commit to developing a response strategy. Build the skills and the capacity to analyse and address biodiversity-related financial risks. Assess the degree to which financial systems are exposed to biodiversity loss. Explore options for supervisory actions on managing biodiversity-related risks and minimising negative impacts on ecosystems. Devote efforts to building the necessary financial architecture for mobilising investment for a biodiversity-positive economy, including by considering how central banks’ own operations should be conducted in the context of biodiversity loss. Brazil’s central bank has already taken steps in this direction, enacting regulation in September 2021 that includes social, environment and climate risk within its financial institution review framework. “Within the prudential framework, biodiversity degradation is explicitly mentioned as an environment risk, side by side with air and water pollution, illegal exploration of natural resource, etc,” said Otávio Damaso, deputy governor for regulation at Banco Central do Brasil. “Nevertheless, we are already considering revising this framework to improve our approach to the risk of biodiversity loss.” NGFS, which has 108 members and 17 observers, welcomed the report and plans to create a taskforce to mainstream the consideration of nature-related financial risks across its activities, especially its workstreams. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/30/five-actions-for-central-banks-to-address-biodiversity-risks/
|
| Politics › Adeoye Fadeyibi Takes Over As Abuja Disco After Bada’s Resignation by postbox(op): 7:06pm On Mar 30, 2022 |
Akinwumi Bada, the Interim Managing Director of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), has reportedly resigned, with Adeoye Fadeyibi, former Managing Director/CEO of Eko Electricity Distribution Company, taking over. On Monday, a source in the Abuja DisCo revealed this. According to the source, the official reason for Bada’s resignation is still unknown, but he confirmed it may be related to the company’s protracted core investor issues, which had eaten deep into the company’s fabrics. “The appointment is a key step in positioning AEDC towards efficiency in customer service delivery and ensuring the effectiveness of the turnaround initiated by the company’s new management,” he said. We are confident that the new executives, with a combined industry experience of more than five decades, will be able to meet the aspirations of millions of our customers who seek seamless power services.” He was also the first Managing Director of Transcorp Power Ltd in Ughelli, Delta State, where he increased the generating company’s capacity from 164MW to 634MW in just 25 months. He came to Transcorp Power from General Electric, where he held several strategic positions with responsibility for the Middle East and Africa. Following the disengagement of the former AEDC managing Director, Ernest Mupwaya, and other top management officers, Bada was appointed in December 2021 to lead a five-member management team of the troubled AEDC for a five-month period. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/30/adeoye-fadeyibi-takes-over-as-abuja-disco-after-badas-resignation/
|
| Health › Save Your Heart From “healthy” Vegetable Oils by postbox(op): 6:46pm On Mar 30, 2022 |
Your favourite native dish is being prepared. Now, watch as the intricate process unfolds before your eyes in slow motion. Do you see the cooking oil hitting the saucepan in all its golden glory? The soft sizzle of the greasy liquid touching the hot metal warms your heart so much so that you are certain: it’s going to be another heavenly meal. But right as the condiments start diving one after another into the pan, something strange happens. The combination of a heart-thumping sensation and shortness of breath that sends every thought of hunger flying out the door. This is a moment Bayo Thompson, lead engineer at a major tech start-up in Lagos, never anticipated. Seated at his workstation, he was only a few seconds into daydreaming about the birthday feast his wife promised to prepare when his chest started throbbing. He was no stranger to panic attacks – like the one he had only a few months earlier when he accidentally disabled the company’s firewall. But this time, the situation was much worse. Mr and Mrs Thompson’s visit to the family doctor the next morning brought with it some scary news – his cholesterol levels had gone through the roof! The physician asked what kind of cooking oil they use in preparing their meals and Bayo’s wife told her she uses a popular and powerful vegetable oil (aka Palm Olein) brand famed for its selling point that assures of ultimate protection of heart health. It is noteworthy that some brands with unhealthy saturated fat levels deceptively understate it on their product labelling in a brazen attempt that undermines the health of millions of Nigerians. The irony in it is that Nigerians who think they are paying more for healthier oils might end up with unhealthy oils. The doctor took her time to educate the couple, that even though all edible oils get lumped together as purveyors of cardiovascular diseases, the real culprit is saturated fatty acids (or “bad” fats), which have been proved to be responsible for weight gain, clogged arteries, high cholesterol and increased risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is important to use only cooking oils with the lowest possible saturated fat content. Palm Olein has over 50% unhealthy saturated fat and under 50% of the “good” unsaturated fats (Monounsaturated & Polyunsaturated fat). Meanwhile, Soya Bean Oil contains 15% saturated fats and 65% healthy unsaturated fats. The difference in saturated fat (Bad Fat) proportions speaks for itself. Eugene Nwosu, a consultant cardiologist at United Heart Hospital Victoria Island, Lagos, said that high blood pressure is a top trigger of heart attack and stroke, and many move about without a clue that they live with the silent killer. On top of that woe, many Nigerians have unfettered availability of unhealthy oils in their food supply. “The culprit is mainly oils that are rich in saturated fat. They should be minimized. People need to understand how to properly read labelling when shopping. The type of oil you eat can affect your cholesterol level, which increases build-up of clogs in the blood vessels. The oil that is good for cooking is the oil that is high in both polyunsaturated fat and monounsaturated fat,” Eugene stated. Soya bean oil mostly consists of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are a heart-healthy type of fat that is associated with several benefits. Trading high saturated fats for higher polyunsaturated fats may also reduce levels of Low-Density Lipoprotein (bad) cholesterol, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. Simply put, choosing soya bean oil over palm olein products is choosing a stronger, healthier heart. As you make the switch from Palm Olein to Soya Oil, trust Golden Terra Soya Oil to help you maintain heart health. If the saying is true that out of the heart flows the wellspring of life, then it is essential for you and your family to feed your hearts with only what will keep them beating safe, sound and strong. Golden Terra Soya Oil is the leading soya bean oil in the Nigerian market with its increasing presence across the country. It is 100% pure Soya Bean Oil, totally sourced and manufactured in Nigeria, available in sachet, 5liters, 10liters and 25liters. It should be adopted by every Nigerian for a healthy heart. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/30/save-your-heart-from-healthy-vegetable-oils/
|
| Education › Nile University Abuja Becomes Beneficiary Of Mouka Award Of Excellence by postbox(op): 9:36pm On Mar 29, 2022 |
As part of the company’s 5th CSR pillar called “Skills For Life”, Mouka birthed this initiative three years ago to recognise and promote academic excellence while advocating the role of quality sleep in the equation. Okano and Colleagues (2019) showed that longer sleep duration, better sleep quality and greater sleep consistency improved academic performance. This study also revealed that students who deprive themselves of sleep while preparing for exams suffer blackouts while writing the examination itself. Another research also shows that students who sleep well are more ‘likely to develop innovative ways of solving complex issues mathematically than those with sleep deprivation’. Based on these research works and many more, the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy encourages students to prioritise quality sleep. To this end, Mouka has recognised and rewarded the best graduating students from all faculties of the Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, with cash grants at the school’s convocation ceremony held recently. Commenting on the Mouka Award for Excellence initiative, the Company’s Brand Manager, Yemisi Obadina, stated that the scheme, which was flagged off in 2020, is intended to encourage students to strive for academic distinction while also prioritising quality sleep on their Mouka. Speaking on the initiative, Mouka’s Head of Sales, Oladimeji Alabi, called on other institutions to enrol in the Mouka Award for Excellence program by contacting the company through their customer care lines or Regional Sales Managers. The beneficiaries include Aisha Adebayo from the Department of Economics; Faruk Ladan, from Petroleum and Gas Engineering; Nana Aisha Alhassan Sule, from Public and International Relations; Chidinma Vivan Odoh, Public Administration; and Israel Ayomide Anjorin, from Computer Science In his commendation speech, the Vice-Chancellor of the Institution, Professor Osman Nuri Aras, said through their goodwill, Mouka has demonstrated that it cares about the students’ efforts in their quest for a better future and that the grants would support them in achieving their future goals. On their part, the beneficiaries applauded the socially responsible company for rewarding intelligence. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/29/nile-university-abuja-becomes-beneficiary-of-mouka-award-of-excellence-3rd-edition/
|
| Agriculture › Tomato Processing Firm Begins Production by postbox(op): 7:43pm On Mar 28, 2022 |
Tomato Jos Farming and Processing Limited has begun manufacturing tomato paste variants for the Nigerian and West African markets. The new tomato paste variant, which comes in a 65-gram sachet, is made from fresh tomatoes grown in Kaduna State and other parts of Nigeria Unveiling the products, which are intended to circulate in the Nigerian market, the Executive Secretary of the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency, Khalil Nur Khalil, stated that the state would continue to entice foreign investors despite significant security challenges. Khalil also praised the company for its faith in the state, stating that the state government would continue to assist Tomato Jos Company whenever the need arose. Mira Mehta, Founder and CEO of Tomato Jos, said at the event that the investment in the factory has attracted an initial capital outlay of $30 million and an additional N1 billion, and that she was proud to see the dream come true. “It’s a dream come true,” the American-born entrepreneur said. Though entrepreneurship has its ups and downs, I am encouraged when I see my colleagues’ passion for this business ignite.” “It is the company’s first consumer product since operations began last year at its multibillion-naira factory in Kaduna state.” “I am incredibly proud of the Tomato Jos team for their hard work and belief that we could achieve something of this magnitude,” Mehta said. The facility is Nigeria’s only one of its kind, capable of producing sachet tomato products directly from fresh tomatoes. The product is currently available in Kaduna State, and we plan to expand to other states by the end of 2022.” Mrs. Yemisi Edun, Managing Director of FCMB, also commented on the development, describing the bank’s funding of the factory as another landmark intervention to boost agribusiness, food security, and food sufficiency in Nigeria. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/28/tomato-processing-firm-begins-production/
|
| Agriculture › CBN Disburses ₦42 Billion To 15 States To Support Wheat Cultivation by postbox(op): 6:21am On Mar 28, 2022 |
According to the Central Bank of Nigeria, it has allocated N42 billion to accelerate wheat cultivation on 132,799 hectares spread across 15 states in the country.https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/26/emefiele-cbn-disburses-n42b-to-15-states-to-support-wheat-cultivation/ 3 Likes
|
| Christianity Etc › AFDB Signs Mou With ECOWAS To Develop West Africa Pharmaceutical Industry by postbox(op): 6:12am On Mar 28, 2022 |
The African Development Bank and the Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have signed a memorandum of understanding for $3.56 million in grant funding to support the development of pharmaceutical industries in West Africa. Lamin Barrow, Managing Director of the Bank for Nigeria and Mamadou Traoré, ECOWAS Commissioner in charge of Industry and the Private Sector, signed the agreement for the Pharmaceutical Industry Development Support Project in West Africa on Wednesday. The project’s total cost is $3.77 million, to which the ECOWAS Commission will provide $200,000 in cash and $400,000 in-kind. The funds will support the implementation of regulations to allow duty-free access to pharmaceutical raw materials, packaging, and finished products under the ECOWAS Common External Tariff. It will also help establish an effective regional pharmaceutical regulatory ecosystem by providing technical assistance programs for regional regulatory authorities. Commissioner Traoré said: “Local production of pharmaceuticals and biologicals has become an imperative and a regional priority, as is the provision of healthcare delivery services. The African Development Bank’s support of these priorities will help ECOWAS achieve its development objectives.” During the signing ceremony held in Abuja, the African Development Bank’s Director General for Nigeria, Lamin Barrow said: “The COVID-19 crisis has further exposed the fragility of our national healthcare systems and posed significant disruptions to the global health and pharmaceutical supply chains. This underscores the urgency of accelerating efforts to ensure a minimum level of supply of health products.” The project will enhance the pharmaceutical industry’s competitiveness through improved quality and product standards and help ensure that the region complies with best practices in manufacturing pharmaceutical products and supplies. It will strengthen regional training institutions and laboratories to ensure that the required skills are available to support the industry’s regional growth in a gender-sensitive and environmentally friendly manner. In response to calls from the African Union and the pharmaceutical industry, the African Development Bank has taken a leadership role in developing and driving a continental Vision and Action Plan for a new African Pharmaceutical order. Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina announced last year that the institution would mobilize up to $3 billion to support this development. The project will also advance the Bank’s efforts to support the harmonization of the regulatory environment for pharmaceuticals across Africa at the regional and continental levels. This, in tandem with the operationalization of the African Continental Free Trade Area, will deepen intra-African integration and trade, boosting regional markets. The Bank’s Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialisation, Solomon Quaynor, said: “To develop the pharmaceutical industry, the African Development Bank will help to develop local production capacities to increase the market share of African (local and regional) pharmaceutical production value to 45-55% by 2030.” The project aligns with three of the African Development Bank’s High Five strategic priorities: Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the quality of life for the people of Africa. It also advances the Bank’s Regional Integration Strategy for West Africa, and is in line with the Bank’s gender strategy, and its strategic response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The ECOWAS Commission will be the executing agency for this project, which will run for two years, starting from 2022. The West African Health Organisation will be the implementing agency. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/28/afdb-signs-mou-with-ecowas-to-develop-west-africa-pharmaceutical-industry/
|
| Celebrities › Rema Has Joined OPPO Nigeria As A Brand Ambassador by postbox(op): 8:16am On Mar 26, 2022 |
OPPO Nigeria, one of the leading smart mobile device brands, has today unveiled Rema, one of Nigeria’s biggest musical exports as Divine Ikubor known professionally as Rema, responsible for hit singles such as Calm Down, Dumebi, Bounce, Ginger Me, Iron Man and a host of other afro beat inspired songs has caught the attention of not only Nigerians but also an appreciable number of international audience, as its first A Series Brand Ambassador. Speaking to his fans about the new partnership with OPPO Nigeria, Rema stated that he had made A Perfect Choice, stating that OPPO, as an innovative and fourth-largest smartphone company in the world, is the perfect fit for him. “This is the start of an exciting journey because the OPPO Nigeria brand aligns with my personal values.” They are dedicated to innovating technology for humanity and producing premium yet affordable devices that everyone can enjoy, which aligns with my desire to create quality musical experiences for everyone,” he added. Jennifer Okorhi, OPPO Nigeria Marketing Manager, said at the unveiling that Rema’s inspirational career with a unique sound that everyone has come to love has proven his tenacity and can-do spirit – qualities the brand would love to instill in their customers. “The brand’s decision to work with Rema was simple because he represents many of our customers who are brave enough to pursue their dreams.” We, like Rema, are constantly striving for perfection, and we can now confidently say that the A96 is the ideal choice for affordable luxury. We are overjoyed to have such an inspiring young man join the OPPO team.” She continued. OPPO Nigeria has been at the forefront of introducing affordable but high-quality mobile devices in Nigeria. Their newest entrant into the Nigerian market, the A96, is regarded as the fastest charging device due to its signature SUPERVOOC charge, strong battery, large storage, and long–lasting features such as anti–scratch, daily water splash resistance, and dust resistance. The A96 is the only device in its category that possesses these characteristics, and the brand will officially unveil it today at the official launch event. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/25/rema-has-joined-oppo-nigeria-as-a-brand-ambassador/
|
| Politics › DAWN Commission, AACC Sign MOU On Bilateral Trade And Investment by postbox(op): 7:48pm On Mar 23, 2022 |
Development Agency of Western Nigeria (DAWN Commission) and Asia Africa Chamber of Commerce (AACC ) has, on Wednesday 15 March 2022, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on bilateral trade and investment development between Asian countries and Southwest Nigeria, at the DAWN Commission’s Ibadan Office. Present at the signing ceremony were Mr. Seye Oyeleye, Director General of the DAWN Commission; Prince Olawale S. Ayinla, AACC Vice Chairman and President of AACC Africa; Mr. Temitope Daramola, AACC Nigeria Vice President, Finance and Investment Development; Mr. Olufemi Ajibade Daramola, AACC Nigeria Vice President, Pharmaceutical Industry; and Erelu Funmi Rotiba, AACC Nigeria Director of Tourism. Speaking at the event, Prince Ayinla said the partnership between AACC and the DAWN Commission marks the beginning of various initiatives that will boost Africa’s economic renewal as AACC is planning intervention packages that will act as catalysts to accelerate social economic growth in Africa using Nigeria as a takeoff point and Southwest Nigeria as a pilot project. “This approach will assist in fostering continental economic development from a fourth industrial revolution perspective and help to bridge the gaps of infrastructural deficit in Africa, with a view to making the continent more Industry 4.0 complaint,” he said. On the pan-Nigeria outlook, Prince Ayinla said AACC is focused on end to end investment from raw materials production to secondary and tertiary production of raw materials to retain as much of the product value chain within Nigeria and the host communities as possible. AACC intends to work with all tiers of government, within the region, through DAWN to ensure the most suitable development structures and relevant infrastructure are employed through the region. AACC is committed to promoting contemporary manufacturing in all six geopolitical zones, towards making Nigeria an export-oriented country. “That is why this MOU is very strategic for the partnership of AACC and DAWN Commission”, he said, adding that AACC will,in the vein, connect with the other five zones in Nigeria. Commenting on the development, Mr. Oyeleye expressed excitement about the partnership as both organisations will be working together along the lines of commerce and investment. “The DAWN Commission is excited about the prospects of this partnership and the immense potentials for attracting businesses and investments to the Southwest region, which will create more jobs, increase internally-generated revenue, and contribute to human capacity development. Against the backdrop of global economic challenges, AACC strongly believes the best time for Africa’s economic renewal is now, especially as the pandemic, Russia-Ukraine turmoil, and other areas of global economic meltdown serve as eye openers for a more robust and forward-looking approach to business in Africa. “Going forward, we will be taking more pragmatic steps and approach to make sure that we achieve all our set goals and objectives to drive a healthy social economy sustainable development in the Nigeria market,” Prince Ayinla said. AACC has its global headquarter in Malaysia, with the main goal of being a world class economic reference point and an organisation that promotes as well as facilitates trade and investment opportunities between Asia and Africa. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/23/dawn-commission-aacc-sign-mou-on-bilateral-trade-and-investment/
|
| Agriculture › Jos Farming And Processing Ltd Launches Tomato Paste Into The Market by postbox(op): 6:07pm On Mar 22, 2022 |
Tomato Jos Farming and Processing Limited launched its much-anticipated Tomato Jos paste variant into the Nigerian market over the weekend in Kaduna. Speaking at the event, which took place over the weekend in Kaduna, the company’s Managing Director, Mira Mehta, described the product’s introduction into the Nigerian market as “a dream come true.” Despite the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, she says, “I feel encouraged whenever I see my colleagues’ passion for this business ignite.” “I am incredibly proud of the Tomato Jos team for their hard work and belief that we could accomplish something on this scale,” she said. The facility, according to Mehta, is “the only one of its kind in Nigeria that can produce sachet tomato products directly from fresh tomatoes.” “The product is currently available throughout Kaduna State,” she said, adding that “we intend to expand to more states by the end of 2022.” “The theme of our company for 2021 was ‘Let’s Do This!’ and, well, we did it!” Tomato Jos’s future appears to be bright. “We will keep growing until we become a household name throughout Nigeria.” According to her, the tomato paste is the company’s first consumer product since its multibillion-naira factory in Kangimi, Kaduna state, began operations in 2021. The processing plant is built on 500 hectares of land leased from the Kaduna State Government. Mehta went on to say, “In January 2020, we broke ground on our tomato paste processing plant, and the factory was operational by March 2021.” “The company has over 200 full/contract workers, as well as a network of over 3,000 smallholder farmers who partner with the company to grow year-round at yields well above the national average,” she said. “Tomato Jos has received investment support from the Central Bank of Nigeria through FCMB, Goodwell Investments B.V. through Alitheia IDF, VestedWorld, the Acumen Resilient Agriculture Fund, The Morning Star Company, and other private investors,” Mehta explained. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/22/jos-farming-and-processing-ltd-launches-tomato-paste-into-the-market/
|
| TV/Movies › FCCPC Has Ordered Multichoice To Allow Subscriptions To Last A Year by postbox(op): 10:27pm On Mar 21, 2022 |
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has ordered MultiChoice Nigeria Limited (MCN), the owner of GOtv and DStv, to develop a feature that allows customers to lock their subscription for at least a year. The FCCPC stated that this was part of a resolution reached following an investigation it launched on the company in 2020 over complaints of abuse of dominant position in the pay-per-view subscription market. In a statement signed by its director of legal services, Tam Tamunokonbia, the FCCPC also directed MCN to allow subscribers to suspend their subscription four times per year, as opposed to the current two-year period of seven to 14 days. “It should guarantee a price lock option that allows subscribers to maintain the same subscription fee for a minimum of one year subject to a contractual agreement that clearly specifies the applicable terms,” the statement says. The commission also urged MCN to communicate with each subscriber about all channels available within their bouquet option and to have completely toll-free customer service lines available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The commission also urged MCN to provide it with a report on challenges in implementing the new guidelines, as well as submit a compliance report demonstrating full compliance with the order, warning that violation of a commission order would result in a N5m fine. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/21/fccpc-has-ordered-multichoice-to-allow-subscriptions-to-last-a-year/
|
| Politics › US Set To Collaborate With Nigeria On Gas Flaring And Ammonia Conversion by postbox(op): 10:17pm On Mar 21, 2022 |
Nigeria’s energy transition agenda received a boost on Thursday at the CERAWeek energy conference in Houston, Texas, as the US Government expressed interest in a bi-lateral partnership that would see the conversion of vast gas resources currently flared to ammonia.SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/19/us-set-to-collaborate-with-nigeria-on-gas-flaring-and-ammonia-conversion/ 4 Likes 1 Share
|
| Politics › WTO Will Collaborate With NEPZA To Establish International Free Trade Zones by postbox(op): 10:07pm On Mar 21, 2022 |
Dr. Adamu Abdulhamid, Nigeria’s Ambassador to the World Trade Organization (WTO), has sought collaboration with the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, NEPZA, to establish more international free zones for investment. During a courtesy visit to NEPA’s Managing Director, Prof Adesoji Adesugba, in Abuja, Abdulhamid stated that if international free zones are established, foreign direct investment, or FDI, into Nigeria will increase. He also congratulated NEPZA’s MD on his accomplishments thus far, while reiterating partnership plans to establish coordinating investment centers in Europe and other countries that lacked coordinating investment centers. “The purpose of my courtesy call to you is actually to seek collaboration with the agency under your leadership so that we can deliver on the mandate given to me as Nigeria ambassador to the World Trade Organization,” he said. When we said we wanted your help, you might be surprised because most people think Geneva officials only meet and negotiate on traditions. However, during my tenure, the scope of responsibilities was broadened. We’ve noticed that there isn’t a coordinating center for investment in Europe. All they do is request that some debt officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs be sent to Nigerian missions. I believe what we saw was not so much because of anything. “So, fortunately, Mr. President has approved that expansion, and we are working to ensure that we have a framework within which we can work with all of the European countries to see how we can mobilize more, even though we know they have invested in the country, but we need to mobilize more of them coming into the country to invest, particularly at our resort.” One of my colleagues in the mission will be liaising with, so that if there is anything we can do, we will have direct access, because long bureaucracy can sometimes delay achieving some objectives. So, of course, we know that whenever we write to the country, we usually write to the Federal Ministry of Industry and Investment, which is the Federal Ministry of Industry and Investment. And, of course, we can achieve our goal without delay. So that’s why I came to the country and met with some ministers and CEOs in order to establish this collaboration with the approval of higher authorities. So far, I can see that it is producing results. So, we must continue to collaborate and ensure that we assist our country in achieving the desired global goal. As a Nigerian ambassador to the World Trade Organization, I represent Nigeria. Not only does it affect some activities within the World Trade Organization, but it also affects the International Trade Centre, which has a number of packages aimed at small and medium-sized businesses. And they have a lot of technical support. On his part, Adesugba expressed excitement about the new task ahead, stating that it was an extension of his mandate that is in line with his passion and duty, which are: continuous promotion of Nigeria; developing strategies to improve the economic climate and investment climate. He went on to say that he would work hard to ensure that Nigeria is regarded as one of the most attractive investment destinations in Africa. “For most of us, this should be the way we look at things through the lens of Nigeria’s continuous proportion, developing strategies to improve the economic climate, investment climate, and making Nigeria the preferred destination for investment in this part of the world,” he said. “WTO and what you do are very important, and I have always wondered, like you, that leaving investment promotion in the hands of untrained people can sometimes be counterproductive because when you don’t view the prospective investor as other countries do, you lose the competitive edge that you should have first meetings, prospecting, and all that you won’t understand.” But when it comes to professionals, we’ve always pleaded with our bosses to understand that we need professionals in the countries and climates where we should be prospective, where we should be promoting the country. As a professional in this field, I had advocated for the creation of investment promotion agencies, or IPAs, in countries other than the United States. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/19/wto-will-collaborate-with-nepza-to-establish-international-free-trade-zones/
|
| Business › Eko Disco Has Appointed Its First Female Deputy CEO by postbox(op): 7:20am On Mar 19, 2022 |
THE Eko Electricity Distribution Company’s Board of Directors has approved the appointment of Dr Tinuade Sanda as the company’s deputy managing director. Sanda was the chief accounting officer prior to her appointment, a position she had held since 2013. Godwin Idemudia, EKEDC General Manager, Corporate Communications, confirmed this in a statement made available to journalists. ‘We are pleased to announce that the Board of Eko DisCo has approved the appointment of Dr. Tinuade Sanda as the company’s new deputy CEO, in accordance with the company’s strategies and procedures,’ he said. The Board and Management are confident in Sanda’s expertise and capacity to help lead the company toward its vision of becoming Africa’s leading and customer-centric electricity distribution company.’ Mr. Oritsedere Otubu, Board Chairman of EKEDC, was quoted as saying, “We are proud to announce Tinuade Sanda as our first female deputy CEO.” Her appointment demonstrates the tenacity of our succession planning mechanisms as well as the importance we place on corporate governance practices, which underpin our philosophy of developing and recognizing home-grown talent.” Sanda is an accomplished senior executive with extensive experience in financial reporting, treasury management, taxation, mergers and acquisitions, finance regulation, risk management, and financial modeling. Tinuade was the Head of Finance and Administration at Vanguard Energy Resources, a leading oil and gas trading services company, before joining EKEDC in 2013. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/18/eko-disco-has-appointed-its-first-female-deputy-ceo/
|
| Phones › Huawei Leads $100 Billion Telecom Equipment Market by postbox(op): 7:20pm On Mar 17, 2022 |
Huawei is continuing to lead the $100 billion telecom equipment market worldwide in 2021, according to a report released by Dell’Oro Group. Telecommunications infrastructure market includes Broadband Access, Microwave & Optical Transport, Mobile Core Network (MCN), Radio Access Network (RAN), and SP Router & Switch. Huawei Leads $100 Billion Telecom Equipment Market - Brand Spur Huawei, Ericsson, Nokia, ZTE, Cisco, Samsung and Ciena are the top vendors in the telecom network market — based on their revenue share. The telecom statistics chart indicates that Huawei, Nokia, Cisco, and Ciena were under pressure in 2021. The global telecom equipment market increased 2 percent in the fourth quarter and advanced 7 percent in 2021, recording a fourth consecutive year of growth, powered by surging wireless revenues and healthy demand for wireline-related equipment. There was double-digit growth both in RAN and Broadband Access. Total worldwide telecom equipment revenues approached $100 billion, up more than 20 percent since 2017. Efforts by the US government to curb the use of Huawei’s telecom network equipment are impacting the company’s position outside of China. Huawei led the global telecom network market, underscoring its grip on the Chinese market, depth of its telecom portfolio, and resiliency with existing footprints. Outside of China, Ericsson and Nokia essentially tied at 20 percent and Huawei accounted for around 18 percent of the market. The global telecom equipment growth is expected to moderate from 7 percent in 2021 to 4 percent in 2022 reflecting new supply chain and Capex data. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/17/huawei-leads-100-billion-telecom-equipment-market/ 1 Like
|
| Gaming › Verizon Announces ‘augmented Reality Adventure Thriller’ Game For 5G by postbox(op): 6:20pm On Mar 17, 2022 |
Verizon and Doug Liman’s 30 Ninjas, in association with France-based immersive studio Novelab, announced at SXSW that they are working together on an Augmented Reality (AR) Adventure Thriller that will take full advantage of the power of 5G Ultra Wideband for an unbelievable immersive experience. The result of this collaboration is Helios (which translates to Sun in Greek), a narrative mobile AR adventure that uses volumetric video (a fancy word for modern 3D holograms) to give you a new perspective on mobile entertainment. As you play, a thriller unfolds of a missing sister, a coverup, a hacktivist who has double crossed the wrong bad guy and a young woman named Petra Barnes. You must navigate the story by piecing clues together to gain information and uncover the mystery. But let’s not spoil too much. “I started 30 Ninjas with Julina Tatlock and Jed Weintrob for precisely this type of project and partnership with Verizon,” said Doug Liman, co-founder and partner of 30 Ninjas. “We’re drawing on everything we know about making great entertainment and applying it to an entirely new medium. One with that you carry with you everywhere. Given the chance to build new worlds on the most powerful phones, untethered from home internet: The Mobile Metaverse has limitless potential.” Your 5G phone is the portal to the metaverse. Players move around an augmented version of their personal physical space (home, apartment, office, street corner) to hack “glitches” in their space. As the player hacks their way through the first level of information they unravel more clues (audio, visual, and text) and discover the conspiracy goes even deeper. Once the glitches are hacked they will unlock more narrative. “Verizon and 30 Ninjas’ 5G content collaboration blends industry-leading storytelling with next-gen technology,” said Erin McPherson, chief content officer at Verizon. “We’re thrilled to work together to create a captivating interactive thriller that showcases the evolution of mobile entertainment and the capabilities that we can unlock in our smartphones on Verizon’s 5G network.” Helios will deliver high-octane cinematic video content, augmented-reality puzzle-solving and game mechanics, and lifelike 3D AR characters that users can virtually interact with. The low latency and high-capacity of Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network will enable seamless interactivity, fast download speeds, and high-quality visuals to invite the user into a truly immersive narrative that expertly blends cinematic storytelling with interactive gamification. Helios will launch for Android and iOS 5G-capable smartphones this fall. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/17/verizon-announces-augmented-reality-adventure-thriller-game-for-5g/
|
| Politics › OPEC: Production Of Crude In Nigeria Has Dropped To 1.417mbpd In February by postbox(op): 7:52pm On Mar 16, 2022 |
According to the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Nigeria’s crude oil output will fall to an average of 1.417 million barrels per day in February 2022. This was revealed by OPEC in its Oil Market Report for March 2022, obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos. According to the report, the figure represents a decrease of 10,000 barrels per day when compared to the 1.427mb/d produced on average in January 2021. “According to secondary sources, total OPEC-13 crude oil production averaged 28.47 million barrels per day in February 2022, up 0.44 million barrels per day month on month.” “Crude oil output increased primarily in Saudi Arabia and Libya, while output in Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea decreased,” according to the report. According to the report, Nigeria’s GDP increased by about 4.0 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021, marking the fifth consecutive quarter of economic expansion. It stated that this was in the midst of the ongoing recovery from the pandemic effects that slowed the country’s main economic activities. According to the report, “the annual inflation rate stood at 15.6% in January 2022, nearly unchanged from the previous month.” “Consumer prices rose 1.47 percent on a monthly basis, following a 1.82 percent increase the previous month.” Higher food prices as a result of geopolitical tensions could fuel inflation even further. “The Purchasing Managers’ Index at Stanbic IBTC Bank Nigeria increased to 57.3 in February from 53.7 the previous month, as the non-oil private sector expanded the most since November 2019.” It stated that while rising oil prices may provide ample support for the Nigerian economy, disruptions in global trade flows and supply shortages may offset this positive impact. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/16/opec-production-of-crude-in-nigeria-has-dropped-to-1-417mbpd-in-february/
|
| Business › MTN Will Invest $1.5 Million In Broadband Expansion by postbox(op): 6:32pm On Mar 15, 2022 |
MTN plans to invest $1.5 million (N640 million) in broadband access in Nigeria over the next few years. Mr Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, revealed this plan during a visit by Nigerian embassy officials to the MTN Group office in Roodeport, Johannesburg. He stated that this was in accordance with the Federal Government’s 2020-2025 National Broadband Plan and supported MTN Group’s strategy. Amb. Muhammad Manta, Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, and Consul General Malik Abdul led a delegation to the MTN group. Toriola stated that a new state-of-the-art headquarters would be built in Nigeria soon. He also revealed that the MTN would reconstruct the Enugu-Onitsha expressway in exchange for tax remittances to the Federal Government, as part of a special arrangement to improve the country’s road infrastructure. According to reports, MTN Group sold off portions of its shares in the Nigerian subsidiary in February in order to provide local investors with the opportunity to become shareholders in the leading telecom giant. In the end, 661.25 million MTN Nigerian shares were issued, as opposed to the 575 million units originally planned. In the end, 661.25 million MTN Nigerian shares were issued, as opposed to the 575 million units originally planned. Mr Ernest Ndukwe, Chairman MTN Nigeria, emphasized MTN Nigeria’s importance to the group’s operations, noting that Nigeria is one of their most important markets. He expressed satisfaction that the government was putting in place a number of policies and programs to create a favorable environment for doing business in Nigeria. Ndukwe went on to say that the government has prioritized the development of Nigeria’s digital economy as the next fastest growing sector. In response, High Commissioner Manta praised the group for their interest in Nigeria and promised that Nigeria would create a conducive environment for companies like MTN to thrive. The Consul General urged MTN to collaborate with the Missions in South Africa to develop a cohesive strategy to combat future Xenophobia threats. “We have identified community engagement projects in order to rebuild trust and confidence in one another and to retell the story of Nigeria and its people.” Abdul urged MTN to collaborate with the Mission in developing programs and content that would promote peace, social cohesion, and economic development between the two countries. He urged them to work with the government to find a long-term solution to the senseless attacks on Nigerians. “Nigerians are not xenophobic, but stories of victims and videos of incidents in South Africa incite attacks on South African companies in Nigeria.” SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/15/mtn-will-invest-1-5-million-in-broadband-expansion/
|
| Politics › NAICOM Plans To Increase Insurance Penetration Through Digital Channels by postbox(op): 6:22pm On Mar 15, 2022 |
The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has reaffirmed its willingness to further expand the insurance market by providing digital channels for underwriters to sell products and settle claims. Sunday Thomas, the Commissioner for Insurance, stated this at a workshop for journalists titled ‘Improving Insurance Access through Market Development and Innovation in 2022 and Beyond’ in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. He stated that the workshop was intended to interact with the media and inform them about developments in the insurance industry. The event, according to the Commissioner, who was represented by the Deputy Commissioner, Technical, Sabiu Abubakar, aimed to correct negative perceptions of the insurance industry. Pius Agboola, Directorate, Inspectorate, NAICOM, stated in his paper presentation that the rationale behind risk-based supervision (RBS) was identifying early risks that firms may have and acting on them promptly, properly applying effective intervention mechanisms. Agboola, who described NAICOM as Africa’s leading RBS regulator, stated that the regulator’s method of assessing firms included research. Others, he said, included identifying the risk that could harm the company, assessing management’s ability to control the risk, determining whether the firm has enough earnings, capital, and capacity to minimize the overall net risk, and rating the company while offering solutions. Abiodun Aribike, Head of Information Technology, also stated that insurance penetration had reached 2% of Nigerian adults and had maintained a 0.88 percent growth rate. According to Aribike, insurance companies must do more to broaden their reach. Data, he believes, will continue to be crucial in improving revenue generation. He emphasized the importance of insurance companies improving their automation and optimizing their business processes without sacrificing efficiency, quality, or response time. “Data is the new and lifeblood of the digital age; it can be used massively for decision-making across the insurance value chain and ecosystem, as well as product development,” he said. In terms of providing customer experiences, he stated that the digital age has raised customer expectations, so it was time to look at business from the customers’ perspective. Speaking at the same event, Director of Supervision Barineke Thompson stated that the ability of a stable and efficient financial system to fulfill its key economic functions at all times is the hallmark of a stable and efficient financial system. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/15/naicom-plans-to-increase-insurance-penetration-through-digital-channels/
|
| Politics › FG Increases The Freight Rate For Petroleum Products By 25% by postbox(op): 1:11pm On Mar 13, 2022 |
The Federal Government has enacted a 25% increase in the freight rate for petroleum products, raising it from N9.5 per litre to N11.87/litre, according to Alhaji Yusuf Othman, National President of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO).https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/13/fg-increases-the-freight-rate-for-petroleum-products-by-25/
|
| Business › Africagogreen Fund Receives Over $30 Million Investments From AFDB by postbox(op): 3:33am On Mar 13, 2022 |
The African Development Bank and the Bank’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) have approved a combined-equity investment of $20 million in the AfricaGoGreen Fund , a debt fund established to promote private investments in energy-efficient technologies and business models, with the objective of decarbonising African economies and accelerating the energy transition. These new investments come on top of $11.5 million equity contribution approved by the Nordic Development Fund (NDF) in December 2021. NDF provides financing to climate change mitigation and adaptation activities within the nexus of climate change and development. NDF is also a donor to SEFA, thus reinforcing the close partnership to advance the transition to cleaner and greener solutions for the continent while encouraging the participation of the private sector. “This combined Bank investment will lead to increased financing of emerging projects and businesses in the areas of industrial appliances, electric mobility and green buildings, which are key to the decarbonization of African economies and to a just energy transition”, said Dr. Kevin Kariuki, African Development Bank Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth. “Achieving the climate goals and universal access to clean and affordable energy will require vast investment in energy efficiency and, more broadly, in electrification and other sector coupling trends. By targeting these emerging sectors in Africa, AGGF complements our climate and energy access portfolio, and is aligned with our strategic role as an early-stage catalytic investor”, said Mr. Henrik Franklin, Director for Portfolio Origination and Management at the Nordic Development Fund. Launched in early 2021 with EUR 45 million in catalytic capital, the AfricaGoGreen Fund is a flagship project under the G20 Compact with Africa. “We are really happy to see the Bank, SEFA and NDF as new investors in AGGF. These new investments are also expected to trigger additional investments by commercial investors and financiers either directly or through co-funding of projects”, said Jan Martin Witte, Director Global Equity and Funds for KfW Development Bank. The Fund approved its first deal in August 2021, a loan to AktivCo – a company that finances clean energy solutions for powering telecommunication towers located in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger. Also, in December 2021, it made an additional approval of a $5.5 million loan to BBOXX, a technology company exploring energy solutions that would provide electricity and other utilities to the millions without them, for the expansion of access to clean cooking solutions. The AfricaGoGreenFund provides flexible and tailored debt instruments to private businesses in green appliances for domestic and industrial processes, green buildings, e-mobility solutions, and battery energy storage projects. It is managed by LHGP Asset Management, part of the Lion’s Head Global Partners group. Clemens Calice, Co-CEO and founding partner of Lion’s Head Global Partners said: “We are excited to welcome the African Development Bank, SEFA and NDF as investors to the AfricaGoGreen Fund. The Fund will take efforts to transition to a lower-carbon economy a step further by offering financing to innovative African companies that embrace energy efficiency as a challenge and an opportunity.” SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/12/africagogreen-fund-receives-over-30-million-investments-from-afdb/
|
| Computers › Mediatek Captures 46 Percent Share In Android Tablet Apps Processors by postbox(op): 3:49am On Mar 12, 2022 |
According to Strategy Analytics, the global tablet applications processor (AP) market declined 14 percent in unit terms but grew 8 percent in revenue terms in Q3 2021. Tablet Applications Processor Market Share Q3 2021: $887M; Source: Strategy Analytics HCT Service (March 2022) (Graphic: Business Wire) According to this Strategy Analytics’ Handset Component Technologies (HCT) research report, “Tablet Apps Processor Market Share Tracker Q3 2021: Shipments Decelerate“, Apple, Intel, MediaTek, Qualcomm and Samsung LSI captured the top-five tablet AP revenue share rankings in Q3 2021. Apple maintained its tablet AP market share leadership with a 60 percent revenue share, followed by Intel with 13 percent and MediaTek with 10 percent. X86-based tablets accounted for 12 percent of total tablet APs shipped in Q3 2021. Cellular-integrated APs (3G/4G/5G) accounted for one-third of tablet AP shipments. Tablet AP ASPs grew 25 percent year-on-year, driven by an increased mix of premium APs and supply constraints. Sravan Kundojjala , author of the report and Director of Handset Component Technologies service at Strategy Analytics, commented, ” After the revival in 2020 and early part of 2021, the tablet applications processor (AP) shipments declined year-on-year for the second straight quarter in Q3 2021. However, shipments fared better and grew 11 percent compared to the pre-pandemic period (Q3 2019). Foundry capacity constraints cost opportunity in Q3 2021 as some vendors such as Apple prioritized smartphones over tablets. Despite weak shipments, the AP market saw robust growth in average selling prices (ASP), driven by an increased mix of premium tablet APs.” Mr. Kundojjala continued, “Except for MediaTek, all other tablet applications processor (AP) vendors saw their AP shipments decline year-on-year in Q3 2021. MediaTek, driven by increased traction with leading Android tablet OEMs, captured 46 percent of the Android tablet AP market during the quarter. Strategy Analytics believes that MediaTek is well-situated to continue its tablet AP momentum into 2022.” SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/11/mediatek-captures-46-percent-share-in-android-tablet/
|
| Business › Multichoice Expects End Of $4.4bn Nigeria Tax Row Soon by postbox(op): 7:34pm On Mar 11, 2022 |
Nigeria’s Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) froze the company’s accounts in June and served MultiChoice Group with a 1.8tn naira tax claim for its Nigeria operation and a $342m claim for value-added taxes. South Africa’s MultiChoice, spun off in 2019 from Naspers, makes a third of its revenues elsewhere on the continent, with Nigeria its biggest market outside its home market. MultiChoice, which had appealed to a tax tribunal and declined to grant the FIRS access to its servers in the past, said in a statement it has agreed to a settlement which paved the way for a forensic audit to determine its tax liability. “With the agreement and the resumption of the forensic systems audit, it is expected that the dispute will be resolved very soon,” MultiChoice said. Nigeria, with one of the lowest tax collection rates in the world, has been seeking to boost non-oil tax receipts to support its fragile economy and cut its budget deficit. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/11/multichoice-expects-end-of-4-4bn-nigeria-tax-row-soon/
|
| Phones › Watch The FIFA World Cup On Your Smartphone by postbox(op): 6:24pm On Mar 10, 2022 |
The summer of 2022 is fast approaching, but football fans will be forced to wait a little longer than expected for the hotly-anticipated FIFA World Cup. The highlight of the year’s sporting activity will be staged in Qatar, and the summer heat there forced organisers to postpone the festival of football for another few months. World Cup 2022 will now be played in November and December when the temperatures in the host nation drop to a playable level. Despite the delay, sports fans can’t wait to get started. This will be the most-watched World Cup in history, with armchair fans having a list of viewing options available to them. In this article, we look at these options in a bit more detail. Our team of sportswriters have picked out three ways to watch Qatar 2022, including one that allows you to follow on your smartphone, ensuring you keep up to speed with the scores and don’t miss a single game. With the playoff stages underway in many of the planet football’s contents, followers are busy putting the finishing touches to their predictions. The leading sportsbooks are offering new members a sports betting sign up bonus today, allowing you to get in early, pick the team you expect to succeed in Qatar and back them at the best possible odds. Competition details FIFA World Cup 2022 will be the 22nd instalment of the competition This will be the first time the World Cup has been staged in the Arab world 2022 will be the second World Cup held in Asia Following this event the tournament will move from 32 to 48 teams Eight venues will be used from five host cities Attend the match The best way to soak up the atmosphere of World Cup 2022 is to attend the match and watch your favourite team in action. Tickets will be on sale through the FIFA website when the final line-up has been confirmed and the schedule set in stone. Many fans are already booking flights to Qatar which will take them to the country during the World Cup. They will then purchase tickets at a later date. Ticket prices for matches will remain the same when sold at face value through a reputable vendor but flights to Qatar are expected to rocket in price during November and December due to the surge in demand. If you hold hopes of visiting the World Cup and watching at least one match in person, our advice is to plan well ahead. Time is already running out to get sorted. Watch on TV The most popular method of viewing matches from the 2022 World Cup will be to watch on live television and highlights programmes. A number of the world’s major TV stations, including the BBC, Fox, MediaPro and Bell Media have secured the rights to cover all games from the competition, from the group stages through to the final. If you can’t make it along to the match, this is the next best thing. You can watch from the comfort of your own home or stage a World Cup viewing party, inviting friends, family and neighbours to enjoy the game. This gives you an opportunity to get a feel for the atmosphere and build excitement while enjoying the match with loved ones. You can invite only those who support the same team as you, sharing in the joy of a win or misery of defeat or you can invite a mix of friends who are backing different sides to create that sense of friendly rivalry that the World Cup is famous for. Enjoy a live stream What if you can’t make it to a television due to work commitments? This is where live streaming comes into play. The best smartphone apps provided by sportsbooks allow registered members to watch an HD quality live stream of the games free of charge if you have made predictions on the outcome. The standard of live streaming has improved massively over the last few years. When watching on your smartphone when on the move or at work, you’ll enjoy clear sound, expert commentary and exciting camera angles. There’s no loading or buffering interruptions either. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/10/watch-the-fifa-world-cup-on-your-smartphone/
|
| Health › Is The Brain Active During Sleep? by postbox(op): 11:07pm On Mar 09, 2022 |
Sleep is vital for living a healthy life. Along with a nutritious diet and exercise, sleep plays a key role in promoting a healthy lifestyle. Everybody knows that sleep is essential for energizing our bodies by providing a restful period. However, it offers many other benefits, as well. Sleep enhances your brain performance by clearing waste and supporting learning and memory. It is crucial for regulating appetite and mood, too. Sleep has been a topic of research for a long time, as scientists are fascinated by the relationship between the human brain and sleep. Scientists have conducted several experiments to understand the complexity of sleep. The results canceled the common belief that the brain is inactive during sleep, leading to a new study about brain activity during sleep. Two Types of Sleep An average human spends one-third of his life sleeping. Still, most people are unaware of their body’s activities during sleep. There are two types of sleep: REM and non-REM. Throughout your sleep, you cycle through the different stages of REM and non-REM sleep. Rapid Eye Movement (REM) As the name suggests, your eyes move rapidly during REM sleep but without generating any visual signals. Generally, REM sleep begins 90 minutes after you fall asleep. It has multiple stages that gradually increase from 10 minutes to a maximum of an hour in the last stage. Since your brain is highly active during REM sleep, it is considered an important sleep stage. Your brain indulges in learning activities that improve memory, as well as increase protein production. It also optimizes memory consolidation, making your brain more likely to develop new skills. While you have intense dreams during REM sleep, your brain still functions as actively as it does during periods of wide-awakeness. Non-Rapid Eye Movement (Non-REM) You spend 75 to 80 percent of your sleep in non-REM sleep. It begins as light sleep and progresses into the longest cycle of sleep. Non-REM sleep has a close connection with deep sleep, as the brain transitions into the deepest stage of sleep during its third stage. It is difficult to wake up from the deep phase of non-REM sleep. Your brain produces very slow waves without any eye movement or muscle activity. Since non-REM sleep is responsible for deep sleep, it helps in energizing your body and maintenance. White blood cells are restored for protection and healing, muscle recovery, and growth takes place during this phase. The Stages of Sleep Stage 1 begins with non-REM sleep, with a light sleep lasting for a few minutes. Your brain waves slow down, making you transition into sleep from wakefulness. The brain waves slow down, along with your heartbeat, breathing, and eye movement. In stage 2, the brain waves continue to reduce, making way for deep sleep. Your body temperature drops, and muscles relax even further. You spend most of your sleep in this stage, instead of the others. During stage 3, your brain waves become even slower, and you finally enter the deepest level of sleep. It is longer in the first half of the night, but it may be more difficult to wake up in the morning. Stage 4 consists of REM sleep, which starts after an hour or more of falling asleep. It involves more movement of the eyes, muscles, and increased heartbeat. The symptoms are similar to wakefulness, so your arms and legs muscles become temporarily paralyzed to avoid any actions. As compared to non-REM, dreams are more common during this stage. Why Do You Need Sleep? We have all felt exhausted and foggy due to a lack of sleep. Sleeplessness can deprive the brain of learning and storing memory during sleep. It may lead to problems in storing short-term and long-term memory. Memory consolidation is high between most sleep stages, and sleep also helps suppress memory and unlearning. Sleep can have pain-relieving effects while also decreasing anxiety. Studies have shown that sleep deprived individuals experience a spike in anxiety. However, anxiety can lead to sleeping disorders such as insomnia. Thus, it is important to manage your anxiety through therapy, medication or supplementation. Brain plasticity, known as the changes in the structure of the brain, is linked with sleep. It is a known fact that infants need sleep for brain development. Several studies have found that sleep has a similar impact on adults, as well. Poor performance due to sleep deprivation proves these findings. Scientists are learning about the connection of sleep with genes, increased risk of diseases, and much more. How Much Sleep Do You Need? Specialists from Healthcanal.com have set average hours of sleep based on age groups, but they don’t fit every person. It is just a general idea that is close to most people’s needs. Infants sleep around 16 to 18 hours for successful brain development. Young children need 9 to 10 hours of sleep and adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep to maintain their health. It is important to get the recommended amount of sleep for a properly functioning brain and body. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/09/is-the-brain-active-during-sleep/
|
| Politics › Economy Nigeria Pledges N2.5 Billion Infrastructure As Kimberly Clark Opens by postbox(op): 3:30pm On Mar 08, 2022 |
American corporation Kimberly Clark, makers of Huggies diapers, has opened a new $100 million plant in Ikorodu, Lagos, in a new move by the firm to wrestle some market share from other leading brands. In support, the Nigerian government and the Lagos State government pledged a combined N2.5 billion to develop adjoining infrastructure leading up to the factory site at Ikorodu. The pledge was made by the Minister of State, Budget & National Planning, Clem Agba, and Governor Babjide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos. Kimberly-Clark, which has its headquarters in Texas and has a presence around the world manufacturing hygiene and medical products, began operations in Nigeria in 2012, with the introduction of Huggies diapers into the Nigerian market in 2015 and Kotex sanitary pads in 2019. It faced stiff competition from pampers made by the U.S.-based Proter & Gamble, and Molfix, owned by the Turkish firm, Hayat Kimya. Kimberly-Clark’s new facility has the capacity to create over 1,000 direct and 5,000 indirect jobs with potential to scale over the next three to five years of operation, the U.S. embassy said in a statement Monday. It will produce diapers under the Huggies brand name, with the primary goal of producing quality Nigerian-made products for mothers and babies across the country. The U.S. consul-general in Nigeria, Claire Pierangelo, said the country was proud to be one of the largest foreign investors in Nigeria as leading American brands expand their investment portfolio, providing job opportunities and supporting economic diversification objectives. Delivering remarks at the commissioning of the facility, Mr Pierangelo noted that Nigeria is a critical market for American companies and improving the investment climate would result in more milestones for both countries. “U.S. Mission to Nigeria continues to work with our counterparts in the Nigerian government to promote an environment that is inviting to U.S. businesses. Through this model of cooperation, we will realize mutually beneficial outcomes – increasing investment, capacities for job creation, and partnerships while improving the lives of workers and consumers,” he said. Vice President Yemi Osinbajo cuts the ribbon to unveil the plaque at the official commissioning of Kimberly-Clark’s $100m investment in Nigeria with the U.S. Consul General Claire Pierangelo, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, staff members of Kimberly-Clark and other dignitaries. Mr Pierangelo explained that the commissioning of the new facility showcases the commitment of the United States to deepen its trade and investment ties with Nigeria. She commended Kimberly-Clark for its investment in Nigeria and the company’s contribution to improving hygiene and the health of the people of Nigeria. Mr Osinbajo said every new manufacturing plant is an important step towards the government’s belief that private investments – both local and foreign is the pathway to rapid economic growth. “Kimberly-Clark West Africa has grown from just being an investor in Nigeria to a formidable partner in the actualisation of Nigeria’s economic objectives, by adding value through diversification,” he said. “The company has led, commendably, important social investments, including, sponsoring the education of the Dream catchers who danced here, just a few moments ago. This factory, I trust, will only signal the beginning of greater investment in this and other sectors.” The Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) said it was proud to welcome Kimberly Clark and be associated with their success story. It said when Kimberly Clark set out to build the plant, they did not envisage that a global pandemic will catch up with the project however, in a show of resilience, they carried on with the 18-month long task of setting up even through the peak of the COVID pandemic. Speaking on the sidelines of the launch, NIPC’s acting Executive Secretary/CEO, Emeka Offor, committed to providing Kimberly Clark aftercare services to support their operations. Other government officials at the event included Richard Adebayo, Minister, Industry, Trade & Investment; Pauline Tallen, Minister of Women Affairs; Mr Agba, Minister of State, Finance, Budget and National Planning; and Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/08/nigeria-pledges-n2-5-billion-infrastructure-as-kimberly-clark-opens-100-million-plant/
|
| Business › Oil Reaches $130 Per Barrel, The Highest Level In 14 Years by postbox(op): 3:22pm On Mar 08, 2022 |
The price of crude oil hit $130 per barrel on Monday, the highest since July 2008, after the United States and its European allies considered prohibiting the importation of Russian oil in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Brent crude futures were up $12.61, or 10.6%, to $130.72 a barrel by 0449 GMT, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was up $10.41, or 9%, to $126.09, according to Reuters. Monday’s intraday highs are close to the records set for both contracts in July 2008, when Brent reached $147.50 per barrel and WTI reached $147.27. Crude oil prices have risen in the last week as a result of sanctions imposed by the United States and its allies on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. It primarily sells crude to European refineries. It is also the largest supplier of natural gas to Europe, accounting for approximately 35% of total supply. On Sunday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the US and its European allies are considering a ban on Russian oil imports. “We are now in very active discussions with our European partners about prohibiting the import of Russian oil into our countries while, of course, maintaining a steady global supply of oil,” Mr Blinken said on NBC’s “Meet the Press” show on Sunday, according to Reuters. According to CMC markets analysts, “a boycott would put enormous pressure on oil and gas supply, which has already felt the impact of rising demand.” “Prices are likely to rise in the near term, with a move toward $150 per barrel not ruled out.” The increase is good news for Nigeria, which derives the majority of its revenue from crude sales. However, it is certain to cause more problems for the country because higher prices will make fuel subsidies more expensive, potentially forcing Nigerians to pay more for fuel, transportation, and goods. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/08/oil-reaches-130-per-barrel-the-highest-level-in-14-years/
|
| Politics › Qatari Investments In Nigeria Expected To Exceed ₦500 Billion by postbox(op): 10:42pm On Mar 07, 2022 |
Dr. Ali Al-Hajri, the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Nigeria, says his country has increased its efforts to increase investment in Nigeria, with a target of N500 billion by the end of the year.https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/06/qatari-investments-in-nigeria-expected-to-exceed-n500-billion/ 5 Likes
|
| Autos › Nissan Is Transforming Nigeria Into An Auto Manufacturing Hub by postbox(op): 10:33pm On Mar 07, 2022 |
Mr. Amit Sharma, General Manager of Stallion NMN Limited, described the launch of the new Navara in Lagos, with corporate, government, and individual customers from across the country in attendance, as a continuation of his company’s journey towards transforming Nigeria into a notable hub for Nissan vehicle manufacturing and distribution. According to him, Stallion-Nissan is always aware of what he describes as Nigeria’s incredibly huge potential, which is why it is determined to continue investing in the country’s automobile industry. He recalled that in 2013, Stallion NMN Limited, a subsidiary of Stallion Group, partnered with Nissan Motor Corporation to transform Nigeria into a significant hub for Nissan vehicle manufacturing and distribution. “Barely a year after the Stallion-Nissan agreement, Nigeria’s then-revitalized auto policy received a boost from a Nissan Assembly plant located at our VON Automobiles complex in Lagos,” he explained. The first locally assembled Nissan Patrol rolled out of the plant in 2014. Since then, we have made significant investments in the local production of other vehicles such as the Nissan Almera, NP300 Pickups, and Urvan NV350. “The foregoing has resulted in enormous economic benefits to Nigeria and Nigerians, particularly in the form of hundreds of direct and indirect jobs and improved technical skill for a large number of Nigerian workers through the provision of world-class training.” “As a result, Nissan’s market share increased significantly.” In addition, in 2015, Stallion NMN received the prestigious Nissan Global Sales Award for exceedingly increasing market share by 18%. “But wait, there’s more. The Stallion-Nissan Alliance has also resulted in significant Corporate Social Responsibility benefits for Nigerians. These include contributions to the government’s efforts to reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on citizens, as well as large donations to the government’s efforts to combat insecurity in the country, particularly government security agencies in Lagos and its environs.” Sharma also stated that Stallion-Nissan has begun introducing new models, including passenger, commercial, and other specialized vehicles, for the benefit of individuals, government departments, and businesses in Nigeria. “One of them is the all-new Nissan Navara, which we are launching this evening,” he said. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/05/nissan-is-transforming-nigeria-into-an-auto-manufacturing-hub/ 1 Share
|
| Business › Lafarge Africa Crosses A Turnover Of N293B With A Highest Profit Margin In 2021 by postbox(op): 8:06pm On Mar 04, 2022 |
Lafarge Africa reported its highest profit since at least 2011, with top-line growth of up to 27.1%, and Africa’s largest economy’s real estate industry returned to bloom after a second recession in five years hampered consumer spending. According to Lafarge Africa’s audited financials released on Tuesday and seen by PREMIUM TIMES, revenue increased to N293.1 billion last year from N230.6 billion the previous year. However, this still falls short of the figure reported four years ago in 2017, when the company generated N299.2 billion in sales as a result of a cement market boom following a recession. Profit before minimum tax increased by 65.7 percent to N62.3 billion. The increase was owed to some cost-cutting measures, most notably reducing finance costs (the cash spent by the company in servicing long-term credit facilities) from N9.7 billion to N5.3 billion while maintaining a measured growth in other components of operational expenditure. After-tax profit increased to N51 billion, a 65.4 percent increase over the previous year. “Our 2021 performance showed significant improvement, with net sales up 27.1%, recurring EBIT up 42.6%, and net income up 65.4% compared to FY 2020 results,” said Khaled El Dokani, CEO of Lafarge Africa. “We are equally pleased with our progress on sustainability; our use of affordable clean energy and agro-ecology footprint are in line with our net zero pledge journey.” KPMG Professional Services, which audited the company’s books, identified an impairment loss of N4.7 billion resulting from the situation created by Lafarge Africa’s Sagamu plant running below installed capacity as a key audit matter. It cited the facility’s sub-optimal plant efficiency as the reason, noting that “a write down of the associated specific spares carried as inventories of 724 million has been recognised in the consolidated and separate financial statements.” Holcim Limited, the world’s largest cement manufacturer based in Zug, Switzerland, owns 83.8 percent of Lafarge Africa through its subsidiaries AIC UK and CariCement BV. SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2022/03/04/lafarge-africa-crosses-a-turnover-of-n293b-with-a-highest-profit-margin-in-2021/
|
, post-service agro-allied food processing, medicals, pharmaceuticals, Nanotechnology, and the methanol industry.”1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ... 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 (of 99 pages)