₦airaland Forum

May & Baker Nigeria Plc, a local pharmaceutical company, has introduced a new anti-malarial drug to treat malaria in the country. The new drug, Malact, is a dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine combination-based formulation that claims to achieve fast relief from malaria and guarantee improved post-treatment protection.
With increasing resistance to older drugs, the World Health Organisation (WHO) years back jettisoned Chloroquine and recommended Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs) as the first-line drug for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria.

However, most ACTs have since shown limitations including resistance to treatment. But the dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine combination, the newer artemisinin-based combination therapy has shown improved efficacy in multiple trials and is considered the most promising drug currently available for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria.

The combination is said to have reliable efficacy guaranteeing patients faster relief compared to other ACTs available in the market. It is also believed to have better post-treatment protection because of its piperaquine content that makes it possible for patients not to experience relapse for at least six weeks.

Malact, May & Baker’s new product, is said to prevent malaria for up to six weeks and prevent recrudescence of malaria. Other advantages of Malact include convenient dosing because it is taken once a day and this reduces the chances of dosage non-compliance. It does not require to be taken with fatty meals by the patient before it can be absorbed.

At a media launch of the new anti-malaria product in Lagos, Mr. Nnamdi Okafor, Managing Director/CEO, May & Baker Nigeria Plc. said the introduction of Malact is part of the company’s effort at continually confronting the malaria scourge by providing effective and affordable medicines for the treatment of the disease.

He said that Malact is the latest and most effective arsenal in the toolbox for the fight against malaria. He said the goal of May & Baker is to continue to be the one-stop-shop for quality antimalarials.

Mr. Chukutem Chukuka, executive director, Pharma Sales & Marketing of May & Baker in his remark said
“Malact has a reliable efficacy which guarantees patient faster relief compared to other ACTs currently available in the market. It also has better posttreatment protection because of the piperaquine content that makes it possible for patients not to experience relapse for at least six weeks. Malact, therefore, prevents malaria for up to six weeks and prevents the recrudescence of malaria”.

According to the World Health Organization, Malaria remains a major global health challenge with over 200 million cases annually in Africa. It is responsible for over100, 000 deaths in Nigeria every year.

In addition to the loss of life, malaria places an economic burden on African nations that is estimated to be worth over $12 billion in direct cost and GDP loss annually.

The introduction of the believed more efficacious dihydro artemin ism piperaquine-based antimalarial drug is, therefore, a great relief that promises to reduce malaria-related mortality. May & Baker is Nigeria’s first pharmaceutical company with over 76 years’ experience of doing business in the country.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/12/01/may-and-baker-launches-malact-to-combat-malaria/

The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) is pleased to announce the migration of Chellarams Plc, Living Trust Mortgage Plc, McNichols Plc, and The Initiates Plc from the Alternative Securities Market (ASeM) to the Growth Board and the launch the associated Growth Board Index on Monday, 30 November 2020.

This migration follows the receipt of applications from these companies requesting to be migrated from ASeM, and consequent screening and approval by the National Council of The Exchange.
The NSE Growth Board was launched to assist small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) and growth-oriented companies looking to raise capital and promote liquidity in the trading of their shares. It offers relaxed entry criteria with less stringent listing requirements making it easier to attract capital flows along with reduced pre and post-listing obligations.
Commenting on the development, the Chief Executive Officer, NSE, Mr. Oscar N. Onyema, OON, stated,
“This migration affirms the notable efforts of the four companies to meet corporate governance standards and underpins the robustness of our market. We congratulate and are pleased to migrate Chellarams Plc, Living Trust Mortgage Plc, McNichols Plc, and The Initiates Plc to the Growth Board where they will have access to a suite of value-added services that will give them a competitive edge beyond access to capital.
We believe that the inclusion of these companies on the All-Share Index and the Growth Board Index of the NSE will provide increased visibility that will attract global investors.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkgOgCtEYm0
The migration of the four qualified companies was commemorated with a virtual Closing Gong ceremony were the:

1.Chairman, Chellaram Plc, Asiwaju S.K. Onafowokan OON;

2.Chairman, McNichols Plc, Olusegun Layode;

3.Chairman, Living Trust Mortgage Plc, Alhaji Adebayo Jimoh;

4.Chairman, The Initiates, Joe Ogbonna Anosikeh;

5.Managing Director, Chellaram Plc, Chief S.M. Chellarams;

6.CEO, McNichols Plc, Chimaraoke Ekpe;

7.CEO, Living Trust Mortgage, Adekunle Adewole; and

8. CEO, The Initiates, Reuben Mustapha were given the honour to close the market.

It would be recalled that the NSE Growth Board was launched on 28 January 2020 to encourage Start-Ups, Small and Medium Enterprises, and the companies in the Fintech industry with high growth potential to seize the opportunity of raising long-term capital and promote liquidity in the trading of their shares.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/30/nse-migrates-4-companies-from-asem-to-growth-board/

Lagos, November 27, 2020: Ellah Lakes Plc (Ellah Lakes) is happy to announce that it has executed an agreement with Ondo State Government for the joint development and management of 5000 Hectares of land, for the cultivation of Oil Palm & Cassava in Ondo State, Nigeria.

Speaking on the development, the Chief Executive Officer, Chuka Mordi said:
“This is a significant landmark for the Company in the development of our land bank, & we are very excited to be working with ODSG.

I am delighted that we are fulfilling our strategic objective of progressively expanding our land bank & diversifying our portfolio and production base. I am also glad to say that the intercropping programme in Edo State is progressing steadily & we have achieved our first milestone of100Hectares of Cassava wi th the participation of personnel of the Agricultural Development Program (ADP), in Edo State”.

Also speaking on the development, the Special Adviser on Development & Investment to the Ondo State Governor/ Chief Executive Officer of Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA), Mr. Akinboye Oyewumi said:

“We are pleased with this collaboration with Ellah Lakes Plc., and we look forward to a mutually beneficial, valuable and fruitful venture.”

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/28/ellah-lakes-announces-a-joint-venture-with-ondo-state-for-the-development-of-oil-palm-and-cassava-plantation/

Ogun State Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment will continue to facilitate access to capital and work with relevant agencies to build the capacity of entrepreneurs in the fish value-chain, to address the 3.5 million metric tonnes deficit the country is currently experiencing.
Commissioner in the Ministry, Mrs. Kikelomo Longe made this pledge while declaring open the State’s 2nd Fish Fair with the theme; “the relevance of Fish production and processing in increasing the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and alleviating unemployment in Nigeria” organised by the Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA), at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Mrs. Longe said the Ministry would continue to support entrepreneurs in the fish value-chain, to ensure the country exceeds its current 1.1 million metric tonnes of fish production, stressing that the output of the country’s 12 million farmers has to be improved as part of efforts to guarantee food sufficiency.

“The Ministry would continue to improve the business environment to support more fish farmers and entrepreneurs, so as to ensure the 3.5 million metric tonnes fish deficit is addressed”, she said.

Mrs. Longe added that more entrepreneurs in the fish value-chain needed to embrace processing, stating that it would further enhance the worth of their products, as well as increase the product life.

The Commissioner urged entrepreneurs to take advantage of the State Government-Bank of Industry (BOI) loan, which is available at a single digit interest rate to boost their fish farming and processing business.

She called on Nigerians to continue to consume food produced in the country, adding that this would help create more jobs, alleviate poverty, strengthen the naira and help the economy recover faster from the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his remarks, Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Adeola Odedina, represented by the Director of Fisheries Services in the Ministry, Mrs. Victoria Ojelade, said the State as the foremost fish producer in West Africa, her fish value-chain should be well harnessed.

Earlier in his welcome address, the President OGUNCCIMA, Alhaji Wasiu Olaleye said the second edition of the Fish Fair in the State was organised to be a catalyst for economic growth, stressing that addressing the loss of billions of dollars spent yearly on importation of fish produce would curb unemployment, as well as eradicate poverty.


SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/25/ogun-state-facilitates-more-capital-to-boost-fish-production/

The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has given a marching order to the General Manager of the Ogun State water corporation, Engineer Oluseye Maku, and his team, to be up and doing or face dire consequences.
The Governor who expressed anger at the state of public water supply by the corporation gave the warning at the two-day Treasury Board meeting on 2021 Budget held at the Obas Complex, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta.

The Governor’s warning came when Maku appeared the Board to defend the Corporation’s Budget proposals for 2021.

Abiodun advised the leadership of the water corporation to ensure the immediate supply of pipe-borne water to all the nook and cranny of the state.

A visibly angry Dapo Abiodun had interjected the GM who requested for additional four weeks to put measures in place for good pipeline construction, saying he hoped that Maku would be the person to execute the water project and not someone else.

This apparently sent a message that sent a message to the GM and his team to sit up or face the axe, as the governor further engaged the water boss on the ways and manners of raising internal revenue without unnecessarily placing the burden on consumers.

In his contribution, Special Adviser on Water, Engr Kunle Otun, informed the governor that many damaged pipes arose as a result of the rehabilitation of roads embarked upon by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and that these construction works had adverse effects on water supply.

The General Manager, Ogun State Water Corporation had said the Corporation was working towards rehabilitating various water scheme and also constructing 20 water hubs to serve the people.

Abiodun there and then instructed the Commissioner for Finance, Dapo Okubadejo, who doubles as the chairman of the State Tenders Board, to always ensure that all connecting infrastructures are included in any contract that links two or more agencies.

“You are the chairman of Tenders Board, from now, you must ensure that any contract to be awarded must include the repairs of damaged infrastructure. All associated matters must be looked into and be included in any contract henceforth”, he said.

“No road contract must be awarded without consideration for public infrastructures like water pipes, electric wire and poles. Make sure every infrastructure along the right of way is factored into the contract and must be restored back to its former state or even better than how it was.

Prince Abiodun who described water as a basic necessity of life, decried the damage done to water supply in the State as a result of the dislocation of water pipes during the expansion of roads in the state capital and other parts of the state, noting that, ” there should have been a provision in the contract for the restoration of the pipes by the contractor”.

“Commissioner for Finance, you are the Chairman of the State Tenders Board, I want to publicly admonish you that never again must a road contract be awarded without due consideration to any other infrastructure that the construction will affect. Those questions must be asked, which other infrastructure, be it electrical poles, power lines, water infrastructure – all that must be captured in the scope of that contract”

“You cannot, on one hand, be awarding contracts to improve on-road infrastructure, whilst you are now damaging water infrastructure. I mean, what are the gains there? Is it more important for us to travel than to have water?” Abiodun asked rhetorically.

The Governor berated the Corporation for non-performance, said it was a critical sector whose services were very important to the well-being of the people, urging the management to brace up for the task of ensuring that the people have access to potable water supply.

On housing, Governor Abiodun while reiterating his administration commitment to building 2,500 housing units in the first two years of his administration and implementing the 10, 000 Federal government Housing Scheme, said that the sector was important for economic sustainability as it generates employment and provides accommodation for the people.

In their support submissions, the Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Akande Omoniyi said the Ministry was currently constructing 150 housing units at Kobape, Prince Court phase 11, while 100 housing units are being constructed at Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode.
The houses under these schemes, the commissioner said would be ready in 2021

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/25/abiodun-reads-riots-act-to-ogun-water-corporation/

10 characteristics of the average Nigerian

1. They are passionate about their religious faiths. An overwhelming number of Nigerians want to go to heaven when they die

2. Nigerians are closely attached to their ethnic groups and traditional rulers

3. They love entertainment and merriment

4. They hate being called just plain Mr or Ms No other people on the world live amassing titles like us

5. They believe how much material wealth you have is a measure of your worth

6. They believe that public transport is for the poor and lazy

7. They believe the government has the capacity to solve all of society’s socio-economic woes

8. They live high-end products and as we produce none of this ourselves, they are shamelessly happy to import their needs

9. We are embarrassingly sycophantic. Decades of living under military rule have engrained the Oga-at-the-top mentality into our psyche. Our top-to-bottom mentality makes it impossible for an average Nigerian to refuse in reasonable orders

10. Nigerians appreciate the value of education. However, this means they disrespect people who did not go to university irrespective of what skills they possess.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/25/10-characteristics-of-the-average-nigerian/

The Ogun State Government, in collaboration with Orange Card, is planning to host the maiden edition Teachers Fest in the State, in order to inculcate and impact Information, Communication Technology (ICT) onwards at the early stage. It will also contain the training of teachers on Information Communication Technology (ICT), so as to enhance a better training/teaching of wards in the course of their job.

The programme, which will come up on November 28, 2020, tagged “Teachers Fest,” will be held at Abeokuta, the State Capital.

Speaking to newsmen during a press conference, the Coordinator, Orange Card, Mr Abiodun Oshodi, said the Teachers Fest was first of its kind in Nigeria and Ogun State, noting that teachers were the most important people on earth.

“The reward of teachers should not be in heaven but should be enjoyed on the earth. Teachers form the people content of the input of education, while technology is there to enable them to be better at delivering value,” Oshodi said.

He noted that during the Teachers Fest, the teachers would be exposed to the new global system of delivering and making learning attractive to their wards/pupils as well as teachers.

He added that it would be of help in delivering value to society, which would also be trained on ICT at enhancing better teaching, adding that the State has done best for teachers in terms of timely payment of their salaries and emoluments.

He said the strategic workshop would provide ample opportunity for master-class training for those interested, noting that it would flag off ICT training for teachers, as well as awards that would attract 10 million Naira grant for career advancement and for continued self-improvement to become the best.

Also, the Gateway Mortgage Bank said the bank pledges support for the programme, stating that teachers were the pride of the world and should not be undermined in society.

Speaking earlier, the Director of Information, Bureau of Information (BIT), Mrs Olatundun Adekunle, said the TechHub cares for the teachers in the State and will always work towards widening their knowledge on digital methods and equipment, as the world is now in the digital age.

She said teachers would benefit immensely from the upcoming Teachers Fest which comprises different activities, such as access to discount market, and special ICT master-class sessions that would be hosted in the State.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/24/ogun-to-host-maiden-edition-of-teachers-fest/

At the induction and graduating ceremony of the 15th set of Medical Doctors and 5th set of Dental Surgeons of the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM) held over the weekend. Prof Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo, the Chief Medical Director of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), admonished the new doctors to thirst for knowledge and skills as they begin their journey in the medical profession.

In his words, “do not become overwhelmed as the reality of your calling beckons but conquer your fears and anxiety. I want you to look forward to a bright and fulfilling career and always strive for perfection in all that they do.”

The Acting Provost of LASUCOM, Prof Abiodun Adewuya, in his welcome address, charged the new doctors to note that the utmost in professionalism will always be expected of them and they will not be judged by the number of distinctions and credits they graduated with but by how effective they are able to relieve their patients of their pain and suffering.

He said, “your patients need you to become a healer and to do that, you must take off your white coat, you must recover, embrace and treasure the memory of your shared frail humanity of the dignity in each and every soul; being the only group with the skills to postpone death and prevent the premature loss of life, you must learn to place the needs of your patients ahead of your personal comfort.”

In her motivational speech cum ‘welcome address into the medical profession, the Medical Elder of the day, Prof. Elizabeth Disu, encouraged the inductees of the day to uphold the ethics of the profession as a group and as individuals. She highlighted a few ethical points that should drive their being and these include, taking a stand against covetous practices, having personal accountability, self-integrity, diligence and excellence in all they do.

Prof Disu referred to the medical profession as a ‘calling’ and not just a job. She told them to have a plan in place to excel and fulfil purpose, as they are in a life-long learning profession. She encouraged them to maintain balance between their professional and personal life.

Present at the ceremony were, Honorable Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, Prof Akin Abayomi, represented by Deputy Director Family Health & Nutrition, Lagos State Ministry of Health; the Vice-Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Olanrewaju Adigun Fagbohun, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Oyindamola Oke, amongst other dignitaries.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/24/hold-your-heads-high-fabamwo-charges-newly-inducted-doctors/

The latest data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that ‎the average transport fare for bus journey within cities‎ ‎in the country increased by 4.03% percent, month-on-month, in October 2020.
The NBS Transport Fare Watch report for October 2020, covers the following categories namely bus journey within the city per drop constant route; bus journey intercity, state route, the charge per person; airfare charge for specified routes single journey; journey by motorcycle (Okada) per drop; and waterway passenger transport.

According to the transport fare report, the average fare paid by commuters for bus journey within the city increased by 4.03% month-on-month and by 68.82% year-on-year to N322.22 in October 2020 from N309.73 in September 2020.

The NBS further reported that, in the period under review, ‎states with the highest bus journey fare within city were Zamfara (N585.34), Bauchi (N504.78) and Cross River (N431.04). On the other hand, states with the lowest bus journey fare within the city were Abia (N192.11), Kebbi (N205.47) and Borno (N208.15).

Also, Average fare paid by commuters for bus journey intercity increased by 9.25% month-on-month and by 35.00% year-on-year to N2,209.84 in October 2020 from N2,022.70 in September 2020.

States with highest bus journey fare intercity were Abuja FCT (N4,376.09), Lagos (N3,073.41) and Sokoto (N3,055.12) while States with lowest bus journey fare within city were Bayelsa (N1,473.67), Enugu (N1,560.00) and Bauchi (N1,560.49).

What about air transport fare?
NBS data shows that average fare paid by air passengers for specified routes single journey decreased by -1.70% month-on-month and increased by 18.42% year-on-year to N36,256.08 in October 2020 from N36,884.59 in September 2020.

States with highest air fare were Anambra (N38,500.00), Cross River (N38,460.00), Jigawa (N38,250.00) while States with the lowest airfare were Akwa Ibom (N32,750.00), Sokoto (N33,250.00), and Gombe (N34,800.00).

Okada?
In the same vein, the average fare paid by commuters for journey by motorcycle per drop increased by 3.88% month-on-month and by 115.50% year-on-year to N265.41 in October 2020 from N255.51 in September 2020.

States with highest journey fare by motorcycle per drop were Niger (N1,476.40), Kogi (N372.45) and Rivers (N352.47) while states with lowest journey fare by motorcycle per drop were Adamawa (N78.49), Katsina (N106.20) and Kebbi (N135.75).

Commuting on the waterways?

NBS data shows that average fare paid by passengers for water way passenger transport increased by 2.20% month-on-month and by 35.11% year-on-year to N750.42 in October 2020 from N734.26 in September 2020.

States with the highest fare by waterway passenger transport were Delta (N2,261.31), Bayelsa (N2,250.86) and Rivers (N2,175.35) while states with the lowest fare by water way passenger transport were Borno (N225.21), Gombe (N270.45) and Kebbi (N310.85).

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/23/average-transport-fare-for-bus-journey-rose-by-4-03-per-cent-in-october-nbs/

Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has approved the disbursement of a sum of N96,140,000.00 as scholarship awards to 469 students of the state origin in tertiary institutions across the country.

The State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology Dr Olabimpe Aderiye, who made this known in Ado Ekiti, said that the State Government had commenced electronic payment to bank accounts of beneficiaries of the awards.

Mrs Aderiye highlighted beneficiaries of the scholarship awards to include 31 physically challenged, 288 undergraduates as well as 150 postgraduate students consisting of 71 Masters and 79 Ph.D. students.

The Commissioner said that undergraduates and physically challenged students were given N60,000 each while Masters students got N250,000 and their Ph.D. counterparts, N750,000. She added that the State Government signed an agreement with each awardee to provide them immediate employment for two years after graduation.

Reiterating the commitment of the Fayemi led-administration to the welfare of all students from the state, Aderiye, however, urged the beneficiaries to reciprocate government gesture by concentrating on their studies and shunning vices that may be inimical to their success.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/23/ekiti-govt-approves-payment-of-n96-1m-as-scholarship-award-to-ekiti-students/

The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) has admitted 159 employees of the Lagos State Government in the Administration and Human Resource Cadre into Full and Associate Membership, through Executive and HR Practitioners’ routes.

The 159 newly inducted members of CIPM, comprising of 88 inducted full members and 71 HR practitioners, are Admin and Human Resource personnel in different Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Lagos State Public Service, whose induction fees were paid by the State Government.

Lagos State Head of Service, Mr Hakeem Muri-Okunola, speaking at the induction ceremony held at Alausa, Ikeja, on Friday, stated that the event represents another great opportunity for Lagos State Government to move the State Public Service forward.

He reminded the newly admitted members of CIPM that Human Resource (HR) Management roles have changed from the typical mould of Personnel Management of years ago, noting that today’s HR professionals must be human capital strategists, business advisors, technology savvy, data analysts and change management experts.

He congratulated the newly admitted members for having successfully completed the structured training as well as the requisite qualifying examinations for Certification of the Institute, expressing the confidence that the knowledge, skills and competences already acquired will enhance their capacity and enable value addition to themselves, the profession and to Lagos State Public Service at large.

Muri-Okunola emphasised that “your induction as professionally Certified HR Managers has imposed high expectations upon you to stand tall at all times with honour and integrity, to be impeccable in character and professional in-service always. You must also be alert to global trends while upholding the highest ethical standards at all times without fear or favour.”

The HoS advised the State Government’s HR practitioners to utilise the knowledge and skills already acquired to positively impact their respective Ministries, Departments and Agencies considering the financial resources invested in their training by the government.

He, however, urged the newly inducted members to take individual responsibility for their continuous growth and development professionally, through the adoption of deliberate lifelong learning strategies.

The Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions, Mrs Ajibola Ponnle challenged the CIPM professionals to use their expertise and knowledge to join hands with the present administration in its efforts to rebuild Lagos that everyone will be proud of.

While underscoring the roles of Human Resource professionals in the State Public Service, the Commissioner averred that the failure of the HR department will have a negative effect on other cadres in the service and vice versa.

She said, “Follow best practices by upholding the code of conduct of the Institute. There are no more excuses for non-professionalism. You must imbibe the values of the Institute and live by it.”

Ponnle also used the occasion to call for more institutional support that will aid the professionalism of the Admin Cadre in service such that any HR person that is not CIPM certified, will not be given due recognition nor accorded some level of recognition within the Sevice.

The Chairman of Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Mrs Olubunmi Fabamwo told the new professionals of CIPM that another phase in their career has just started where the core values of the Institute will henceforth be their working document.

She tasked the HR Professionals to self-develop by leveraging on online courses and other training that would help in honing their competencies.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Establishments and Training, Mr Abiodun Bamgboye, disclosed that the journey of the induction of the new HR practitioners started several years ago.

He commended the magnanimity of the Governor, the relentless efforts of the Head of Sevice and the Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions in pursuing the vision of professional certification of government employees in the Admin and Human Resource Cadre.

The President/Chairman in Council of CIPM, Mr Olawale Adediran, acknowledged the progressive strides of the State Government, especially the attention being given to the development of people, human resources and human capital development.

He expressed the readiness of the Institute to partner with the State Government in offering professional assistance whenever it is required.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/23/cipm-admits-159-lagos-sponsored-admin-human-resource-officers/

The National Pension Commission (PenCom) officially Launched the Retirement Savings Account Transfer System on the 16th of November, 2020.

However, before that, the National Pension Commission (PenCom) has published steps in which RSAs can be transferred from one Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) to another.

Here are the five steps involved in the RSA transfer system below;

Step 1: Data recapture with the current PFA – You must ensure that your personal details have been recaptured and updated on the ECRS by your PFA (I.e. the PFA that currently manages your RSA).

Note: This applies if you opened your RSA before July 01, 2019 and have not been recaptured.

Step 2: Submission of RSA Transfer Request to Receiving PFA: You should approach the PFA that you intend to move your RSA to, (the Receiving PFA) and submit the transfer request by providing the following; Surname, RSA pin, E-mail and current phone number.

Step 3: Validation of Identity – You will be required to provide your fingerprint to the receiving PFA for the authentication of your identity on the National Identity Management Commission’s (NIMC) database. Thereafter, the receiving PFA will issue a printed confirmation slip, which should be signed by you as proof that your transfer has been submitted.

Step 4: Transfer of RSA and funds to receiving PFA – Your current PFA will transfer all the funds in your RSA to your new PFA at the end of the applicable transfer quarter. The process is closely monitored by PenCom

Step 5: Notification to RSA Holder – You will be notified by PenCom and the receiving PFA when your RSA has been transferred.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/23/how-to-transfer-your-retirement-savings-pension-account-in-nigeria/

A lot of Nigerian movies have come out on Netflix recently. If you’ve been looking for what to watch and you’re not sure where to start from, check out these movies below.



Citation


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eMAYynMc1w

Of course, we would start from Citation by Kunle Afolayan. The film is about a student who speaks out after a university professor attempts to rape her and the reaction of the university institution to the claims. The film is broadly based on true events.

In-Line


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7Dv8SV_98A

A convicted murderer is released from prison and reunites with his wife, who is plotting revenge against him after years of physical and emotional abuse.


The Governor


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3q248TQGLk

The Governor” is the riveting tale of Angela Ochello, the Deputy Governor of Savannah State, who with no governorship ambitions finds herself suddenly entangled in a web of political intrigue after the untimely death of the incumbent Governor.

As audiences embark on this journey with Angela, they get to see how with the help of her trusted Chief of Staff, she learns how to manoeuvre through the rough and shark-infested waters of politics whilst balancing the demands of her matrimonial home.



Coming From Insanity


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR61kmyXnL8

At their home, he will work overtime for his meals and shelter as a houseboy. Fast forward to the present day, Kossi is still a houseboy with the Martins. He dreams of a better life, but with barely any education, he knows his future is compromised.

He relies on his natural abilities and talent to carve out a way for himself, soon discovering the art of counterfeit money printing and floating the most flawless counterfeit dollars this side of the world. Now out on his own, he employs the services of a few friends and grows the operation substantially, landing him on the radar of a young determined agent at the EFCC who will stop at nothing to bring him to justice.


The Eve


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

A man has second thoughts about his upcoming wedding when he meets another woman at his bachelor party.


Hire A Woman


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9yyLsAdhKw

An uptight man attempts to make his ex-girlfriend jealous when he pays his co-worker to act as his lover at a university reunion. Starring: Alexx Ekubo, Nancy Isime, Mike Godson.


Taxi Driver (Oko Ashewo)



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXgO0Ed3U9Q

After his father dies, a young mechanic moves to the city to drive the old man’s taxi. Along the way, he encounters assassins and a motley crew of other urban weirdos.


The First Lady


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_kC2nvpSYs

A prostitute who is tired of the kind of work she does doing everything in her power to stop and also looking unto a man to save her from her predicament


Black Rose


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

Rose has a firm understanding of the virtuous woman as imparted by her mother, not so practised by her sister. Her desire for a better life without selling her dignity seems to be in the person of Desmond, a man she fell in love with at first sight regardless of their differences.


Meet the in-laws


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT6lOUM0pnc

A Yoruba man proposes to his Igbo girlfriend, but when the news eventually reaches their parents, their reactions aren’t exactly what they expected due to tribal prejudice.

By: Dammy Eneli

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/21/10-nigerian-movies-to-watch-on-netflix-this-weekend/

The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva will commission a 5,000 barrels per day (BPD) modular refinery located in Ibigwe, Imo State on 24 November 2020.

In a letter to Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Chairman, Waltersmith Refining and Petrochemical Co Limited, Mr Abdulrasaq Isa, acknowledged the Commission’s support in the journey to setting up the project. NIPC is happy to note that the company will now commence operations to refine crude oil, a significant boost to Nigeria’s local refining capabilities.

This 5,000 BPD project which will be commissioned under the chairmanship of the Governor of Imo State, Chief Hope Uzodinma, is the first of a three-phase project. In the second phase, a 25,000 BPD capacity will be added and another 20,000 BPD, to bring the capacity to 50,000 BPD in the third and final phase.

Waltersmith Refining and Petrochemical Company is a Joint venture (JV) between Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB); Waltersmith with 70 per cent equity and NCDMB with 30 per cent equity.
NIPC is the agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria mandated to encourage, promote and coordinate investments in the country.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/20/5000-bpd-modular-refinery-set-for-commissioning-in-imo/

Since the market launch in 2015, around 60,000 examples of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class have been delivered worldwide. In 2019, with around 12,000 units, more Mercedes-Maybach S-Class cars were sold than ever before. Alongside China, which experienced a double-digit growth rate, the main sales markets in recent years have been Russia, South Korea, the U.S. and Germany.
The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is poised to continue this success story. It combines the high-tech solutions of the recently presented Mercedes-Benz flagship model with the exclusivity and tradition of Maybach. The 7-inch longer wheelbase compared to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class entirely benefits the rear. Thanks to standard Executive Seats, the rear section becomes a comfortable working or resting area. They are complemented by exclusive details such as large areas of trim on the rear of the front seats and between the two rear passengers. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class will go on sale in the U.S. in mid-2021.

“With the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, we are emphasizing the progressive, modern approach of its exclusive product portfolio shortly before the 100th anniversary of Mercedes-Maybach automobiles,” says Dirk Fetzer, head of Mercedes-Maybach product management. “As they did then, today’s customers have high expectations of their exclusivity and individuality, elegant design and a first-class standard of finish, all based on the very latest technology. Especially with respect to comfort, safety and design, the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has unique selling features in the hotly contested luxury segment.”
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class (length/width/height: 215.3/75.6/59.4 inches) is a classic three-box sedan. Distinguishing features at the front include the distinctive hood with a chrome fin and the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille. This is highly recognizable by its vertical, three-dimensional trim strips. The wordmark MAYBACH is elegantly integrated into the chrome surround of the grille.

The rear doors are wider than those of the brother models, and the C-pillars feature a fixed quarterlight. Exclusivity is emphasized by the Maybach brand logo on the C-pillar. On request, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can be equipped with electrically operated comfort rear doors and the exclusive appearance can be enhanced by a two-tone paint finish with dividing line. This is applied by hand according to the highest quality criteria.

The interior: generous space and great comfort in the rear
The interior of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is based on the completely new interior design of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The sculptured look of the dashboard, centre console and armrests appears to float above an expansive interior landscape.
Five display screens are equipped as standard, including a 12.8-inch OLED central display as a high-tech control centre and a 12.3-inch 3D driver display with a three-dimensional representation of other road users and pronounced depth and shade effects.
The distinctive look of the driver display in ‘Exclusive’ mode underlines the special status of the Mercedes-Maybach: the surrounds of the dial instruments are in the brand colour rose gold.
This colour is also used for the active ambient lighting–the animated LED light band with intelligent comfort and safety functions. With rose gold white and amethyst glow, the active ambient lighting now has two new colour themes. The “Welcome Rear” entry display welcomes passengers with a special light show. Adaptive rear lighting has its premiere in the Mercedes-Maybach. This follows the wishes of the occupants in several respects: as well as the brightness, the size and position of the light spot can be adjusted. There is also a wide adjustment range between precise working light and relaxing lounge light

There is plenty of classic luxury on board, too: new features include the large areas of trim on the front seats. High- quality wood surrounds encase the rear of the front seat backrests. With the available Executive Rear Seat Plus package, a similarly striking area of trim is positioned between the two rear passengers.
A clear indication that the owner of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class will typically be found seated in the rear is the standard-fit Executive seats on the left and right. The occupant is able to adjust the seat surface and backrest of the Executive seat independently. Using the footrest on the front seat and the electrically extending leg rest creates a continuous, comfortable reclining surface for a pleasant sleeping position. The adjustment travel of the leg rest has been extended by approximately 2 inches compared to the preceding series. The massage function of the calf rest and neck/shoulder heating in the rear are additional new comfort features.
The second generation of MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), first introduced in 2018, debuted in the new S- Class. The unique feature of MBUX is its networking with a wide range of vehicle systems and sensor data. Brilliant displays, in part with OLED technology, make the control of vehicle and comfort functions even easier. The possibilities for personalization and intuitive operation have become far more extensive.
Refined engine design for efficient power delivery
The engine of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class comes from the Mercedes-Benz portfolio and is in part electrically assisted. Electrification is by an integrated second-generation starter-generator (ISG). This provides a boost of up to 21 hp, facilitates efficient “gliding” when driving at constant speed, makes the start/stop experience even more comfortable and the drive system more efficient overall. All-wheel drive is always standard equipment.
The 9G-TRONIC transmission was developed further and adapted for the ISG. The electric motor, the power electronics and the transmission cooler have now moved into or onto the transmission. In conjunction with ISG it was possible to eliminate the entire two-piece belt drive, as an electric refrigerant compressor is used. This means that even when the engine is not running (start/stop and gliding phases), the interior can be efficiently and comfortably climatized.
The brand: defining the luxury of the future for 100 years
Mercedes-Maybach is a byword for luxury that constantly reinvents itself. On the basis of a historically evolved understanding of luxury and superlative quality, Mercedes-Maybach has always redefined the luxury of the future. More than ever before, Mercedes-Maybach now stands for “sophisticated luxury.” The brand combines the top-class technology of Mercedes-Benz with the exclusivity and elegant luxury of MAYBACH.

The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class follows a unique tradition of exclusive prestige models by the Mercedes-Benz and Maybach brands. Maybach Motorenbau GmbH presented its first automobile at the Berlin Automobile Exhibition in 1921: the Maybach Model W3 with coachwork by Auer in Cannstatt.

In 1930, the Mercedes-Benz 770 “Grand Mercedes” (W 07) was presented, and in 1938 this was replaced by the W 150- series model of the same name. In the 1950s the brand made a comeback in the luxury segment with the Mercedes- Benz 300 (W 186 and W 189). The next high-prestige model arrived in 1963, with the Mercedes-Benz 600 (W 100). The luxurious Pullman Limousines of the S-Class 140 series (presented in September 1995) and 220 series (from 2000) continued this tradition into the new millennium.

In 2002, the then DaimlerChrysler AG revitalized one of Germany’s most exclusive automobile brands with the Maybach luxury sedans of the 240 series. And in 2014 the S-Class of today’s Mercedes-Maybach brand celebrated its premiere with the 222 series. This set new standards with the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Pullman (2015) and the S 600 Pullman Guard (2016).

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/19/the-new-mercedes-maybach-s-class/

The Manufacturing PMI in the month of November stood at 50.2 index points, indicating recovery from contraction in the manufacturing sector recorded since May 2020. Of the 14 subsectors surveyed, 8 subsectors reported expansion (above 50% threshold) in the review month in the following order: Transportation equipment, Nonmetallic mineral products, Furniture & related products, Cement, Textile, apparel, leather & footwear, Plastics & rubber products, Food, Beverage and tobacco products and Printing & related support activities.
The remaining 6 subsectors reported contractions in the following order: Electrical equipment, Petroleum & coal products, Chemical & pharmaceutical products, Primary metal, Paper products and Fabricated metal products.

In November 2020, suppliers’ delivery time was faster, new orders and production level increased while employment level and raw materials inventories contracted.

The November 2020 PMI survey was conducted by the Statistics Department of the Central Bank of Nigeria during the period of November 9-13, 2020. The respondents were purchasing and supply executives of manufacturing and non-manufacturing organizations in all 36 states in Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Bank makes no representation regarding the individual companies, other than the information they have provided. The data contained herein further provides input for policy decisions.

Production Level
The November 2020 production level index for the manufacturing sector stood at 51.7 points, indicating recovery from the contraction recorded since May 2020. Of the 14 subsectors surveyed, 7 subsectors recorded expanding production levels, 3 subsectors reported stationary levels of production, while 4 subsectors still recording contraction in production level.
New Orders
The new orders index marginally expanded for the second time in the month of November. The index stood at 50.5 points in November 2020 with seven subsectors reporting expansion in new orders. Three subsectors remained stationary while the remaining 4 subsectors recorded contraction in the review month.

Supplier Delivery Time
The manufacturing supplier delivery time index stood at 52.2 points in November 2020, indicating a faster delivery time for the seventh month. Four of the 14 subsectors recorded improved suppliers’ delivery time, 3 subsectors remained stationary, while 7 subsectors recorded slower delivery time.

Employment Level
The employment level index for November 2020 stood at 47.3 points, indicating contraction in employment level for the eighth consecutive months. Of the 14 subsectors, 5 subsectors recorded growth in employment level while 9 subsectors recorded lower employment level in the review month.

Raw material Inventories
The manufacturing sector inventories index contracted for the eighth time in November 2020. At 48.5 points, the index indicates a slowing contraction in raw materials inventories as some manufacturers begin to have access to raw materials. Two of the 14 subsectors recorded growth in inventories, while the remaining 12 subsectors recorded lower raw material inventories in the review month.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/19/manufacturing-pmi-records-expansion-after-6-months-contraction/

The Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has inaugurated a 13-member committee to critically examine and recommend to the government the viability and economic sustainability of the planned creation of Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) from the existing 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in State.

The Governor had hinted at the plan to create new LCDAs while delivering his State of the State address at the State Assembly last month.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony at the State Executive Council Chamber, Governor’s office in Ado Ekiti on Monday, Dr Fayemi said the move was in a bid to bring government nearer to the people and to stimulate rapid development in the rural areas in line with his administration’s five-pillar development agenda.

He noted that agitations for the creation of new LCDAs continued to top the list of demands in the various consultative meetings held with stakeholders across communities in the State since the inception of his administration.

The Governor added that the creation of the LCDAs was in demonstration of his administration’s commitment to justice, fair-play, and response to the yearnings of the people for the increase and adequate representation at all levels of governance.

He said: “You may recall that exactly one month today while delivering the ‘State of the State’ address in commemoration of the Second Anniversary of my administration, I mentioned that after extensive consultations, my administration has decided to revisit the creation of Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) from the existing Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Ekiti State.

“Ekiti State has a long history of well-articulated demands for the creation of LCDAs. You may recall that in 2014, a Committee on the Creation of Local Council Development Areas, chaired by Honourable Justice Akinjide Ajakaiye was inaugurated to look into the viability and desirability of the agitation for the creation of additional Local Council Development Areas.

“The Committee adopted a consultative and inclusive approach to its mandate and presented to the government a report that led to the creation of additional 19 Local Council Development Areas from the existing 16 Local Government Areas in the State.

“Regrettably, the successor government placed politics above the far-reaching interest of Ekiti people. The process was abandoned just like it did to many of the developmental policies, programme, and projects of my first term.

“I must emphasize that the creation of the LCDAs is in response to the agitation of our people for enhanced representation at all levels of government. For added emphasis, all through the electioneering process that produced the current administration in Ekiti State, and at various consultative meetings facilitated by the government since the inception of this administration, the request for the creation of additional LCDAs continues to top the list of the demands of our people.

“As a responsible and responsive government, it is our duty to make decisions that will be of ultimate benefit to the people who elected us to pilot the affairs of the State. I am, satisfied that the creation of LCDAs in Ekiti State will further deepen the existing relationship between government and our people as well as enhance our commitment to the rapid development of all our communities in line with this administration’s 5-pillar developmental agenda.”

Fayemi charged members of the committee approach their assignment with courage, impartiality, and equanimity and counsel the Government on necessary administrative arrangements as well as proposals for an equitable revenue allocation to ensure the sustainability of the LCDAs.

Other members of the committee include Dr Femi Akinola, Mr Victor Akinola, Mrs Sade Daramola, Mr Joseph Olaito, Mrs Emily Fagesi, M. Remi Obaparusi, Representative Ministry of Justice, Representative of Ministry of Local Government Affairs, Representative of Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Representative of Traditional Rulers and Representative of Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Ekiti State. The Committee which had three months to deliver on its mandate is expected to review the Local Government Development Council Law, Ekiti State 2014, and make recommendations on its relevance in view of current legal developments in Ekiti State.

In his response, the Chairman of the Committee, Mr Oluwole commended the State Government for finding members of the committee worthy of the assignment, promising that the committee would display fear of God’s honesty, fairness, justice, and transparency in carrying out its mandate.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/19/ekiti-govt-commences-move-to-create-lcdas/

Since its introduction to the Nigerian market last year, the GLE SUV has become one of the most sought-after vehicles in its class. Boosting SUV sales globally in 2019, and making the Mercedes-Benz SUV segment the strongest in sales for 2019. In response to the continuously increasing demand for this mid-sized SUV, Weststar Associates Limited, Authorized General Distributor of Mercedes-Benz in the Federal Republic of Nigeria is pleased to announce the arrival of more units of the 2020 GLE SUV.

Some major highlights of the GLE SUV include topnotch innovations that completely reconceive the SUV trendsetter in comparison to its predecessors. Features like the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz assistance systems, the fully variable 4MATIC all-wheel drive which is now available for all GLE models, seating comfort with corresponding interior spaciousness and MBUX, have played a part in the success of the GLE SUV.

The exterior design of the GLE SUV exudes an incredibly powerful presence. The front view emphasizes this with its upright radiator grille in an octagonal SUV interpretation; the prominent chrome-plated under guard and the bonnet with two powerdomes. The distinctive headlamp design is another key feature as it comes with MULTIBEAM LED lights which cover a distance of more than 650 metres.

The side view highlights the wide C-pillar typical of the GLE, large wheels in sizes from 18 to 22 inches and the pillared roof rails. The rearview on the other hand stands out with the rear lights, reflectors and chrome-plated under guard.

The interior design of the GLE SUV is luxuriously elegant and powerfully progressive. It comes with a sporty and stylish cockpit design in the dashboard. The dashboard support flows into the door panels while the trim extends around the driver and front passenger areas to meet the doors. The sport steering wheel comes with a striking, sculptured spoke design emphasizing the impressive appearance of the SUV’s interior. Other features include good ergonomics, flowing leather surfaces, a broad area of trim and flush-fitting sun blinds.

The GLE SUV comes with more space and it has a considerably longer wheelbase than its predecessor (2995 mm, plus 80 mm). This creates significantly more space, especially for passengers in the rear. Legroom in the second seat row has increased by 69 mm to 1045 mm. Headroom in the rear seats has been increased by 33 mm to 1025 mm.

As a world-first in the SUV segment, a second seat row with 6 fully electric adjustments is also available. Another key highlight is the luggage capacity which is up to 825 litres behind the rear seats and up to 2055 litres when the second seat row is folded down.

The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) is another key highlight in the GLE SUV. Since its introduction in 2018, the infotainment system has kept on providing robust flexibilities and advancements in enhancing user experiences. The MBUX in the GLE SUV features two large 12.3-inch/ 31.2 cm screens as standard, which are arranged side-by-side for an impressive wide-screen look.

The information from the instrument cluster and media display are easily legible on the large, high-resolution screens. Showcasing elements in an emotively appealing manner underlines how easy it is to understand the intuitive control structure while impressing with brilliant graphics. Users can set up the MBUX with four different styles from Modern Classic, Sport, Progressive and Discreet style.

Key features of the MBUX in the GLE SUV include;

*The widescreen cockpit
*navigation services
*smartphone integration
*vehicle set up the app
*LINGUATRONIC voice control, and
*Burmester surround sound system.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC comes with a 6-cylinder petrol engine systematically electrified with 48-volt technology (EQ Boost). It has an estimated output of 270 kW (367 hp) and torque of 500 Nm. In the GLE SUV, 4MATIC comes with fully variable all-wheel drive that controls the torque distribution between the front and rear axle from 0‑100 percent depending on the selected driving mode and this greatly enhances the off-road capacity of the GLE SUV.

In all variants of the GLE SUV, power is transmitted by the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the broad ratio spread of gears 1 to 9 allows a clearly recognizable reduction in engine speed and is a decisive factor behind the high level of energy, efficiency and ride comfort. The driving experience in the GLE SUV is further enhanced with the E-ACTIVE Body Control 48-volt suspension.

The latest generation of Mercedes-Benz assistance systems has been included in the GLE SUV. Boasting of unrivalled functions in its segment like the Active Brake Assist which helps the driver to brake in good time when approaching the end of a tailback. Other assistance systems include the Active Steering Assist, Active Stop-and-Go Assist and the Active Blind Spot Assist which helps lower the risk of a collision with other road users as it monitors the blind spot when at a standstill, and can warn the driver of approaching vehicles, motorcycles or bicycles when opening the door.

“The new generation GLE SUV has enjoyed a great amount of success in this market as our dealers continue to receive large orders for this product. We are most sincerely thankful to our customers who have remained loyal to our Mercedes-Benz brand that continuously meets and exceeds expectations” – Mirko Plath, Managing Director/CEO, Weststar Associates Limited.

The GLE SUV is now available at our numerous dealerships nationwide – Barbedos Cars Limited, MB Automobile Services Limited, Skymit Motors Limited, Sunny Motors Limited and Tetralog Nigeria Limited.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/17/the-gle-suv-all-kinds-of-strength/

October 2020 Inflation Rate Rises to 14.23% as Food Inflation Jumps to 17.38%
The consumer price index, (CPI) which measures inflation increased by 14.23 percent (year-on-year) in October 2020. This is 0.52 percent points higher than the rate recorded in September 2020 (13.71 percent).
Increases were recorded in all COICOP divisions that yielded the Headline index.

On a month-on-month basis, the Headline index increased by 1.54 percent in October 2020, this is 0.06 percent rate higher than the rate recorded in September 2020 (1.48 percent).

The percentage change in the average composite CPI for the twelve months period ending October 2020 over the average of the CPI for the previous twelve months period was 12.66 percent, showing a 0.22 percent point rise from 12.44 percent recorded in September 2020.

The urban inflation rate increased by 14.81 percent (year-on-year) in October 2020 from 14.31 percent recorded in September 2020, while the rural inflation rate increased by 13.68 percent in October 2020 from 13.14 percent in September 2020.

On a month-on-month basis, the urban index rose by 1.60 percent in October 2020, up by 0.04 from 1.56 percent recorded in September 2020, while the rural index also rose by 1.48 percent in October 2020, up by 0.08 from the rate recorded in September 2020 (1.40 percent).

The corresponding twelve-month year-on-year average percentage change for the urban index is 13.29 percent in October 2020. This is higher than 13.07 percent reported in September 2020, while the corresponding rural inflation rate in October 2020 is 12.09 percent compared to 11.86 percent recorded in September 2020.

FOOD INDEX
The composite food index rose by 17.38 percent in October 2020 compared to 16.66 percent in September 2020.

This rise in the food index was caused by increases in prices of Bread and cereals, Potatoes, Yam and other tubers, Meat, Fish, Fruits, Vegetable, alcoholic and food beverages and Oils and Fats.

On a month-on-month basis, the food sub-index increased by 1.96 percent in October 2020, up by 0.08 percent points from 1.88 percent recorded in September 2020.

The average annual rate of change of the Food sub-index for the twelve-month period ending October 2020 over the previous twelve-month average was 15.42 percent, representing a 0.29 percent points from the average annual rate of change recorded in September 2020 (15.13) percent.

ALL ITEMS LESS FARM PRODUCE

The ”All items less farm produce” or Core inflation, which excludes the prices of volatile agricultural produce stood at 11.14 percent in October 2020, up by 0.56 percent when compared with 10.58 percent recorded in September 2020.

On a month-on-month basis, the core sub-index increased by 1.25 percent in October 2020. This was up by

0.31 percent when compared with 0.94 percent recorded in September 2020.

The highest increases were recorded in prices of Passenger transport by air, Hospital and Medical Services, Passenger transport by road, Pharmaceutical products, Motor cars, Vehicle spare parts, maintenance and repair of personal transport equipment, Hairdressing salons and personal grooming establishments, Miscellaneous services relating to the dwelling, Paramedical services and shoes and other footwear.

The average 12-month annual rate of change of the index was 9.96 percent for the twelve-month period ending October 2020 representing is 0.19 percent points higher than 9.77 percent recorded in September 2020.

STATE PROFILES
In analysing price movements under this section, note that the CPI is weighted by consumption expenditure patterns which differ across states. Accordingly, the weight assigned to a particular food or non-food item may differ from state to state making interstate comparisons of consumption basket inadvisable and potentially misleading.

All Items Inflation
In October 2020, all items inflation on year on year basis was highest in Zamfara (17.69%), Sokoto (16.99%) and Ebonyi (16.91%), while Lagos (11.96%), Abuja (11.84%) and Cross River (10.50%) recorded the slowest rise in headline Year on Year inflation.

On month on month basis, however, October 2020 all items inflation was highest in Sokoto (2.91%), Edo (2.53%) and Akwa Ibom (2.52%), while Oyo (0.69%), Taraba (0.60%) and Jigawa (0.37%) recorded the slowest rise in headline month on month inflation.

Food Inflation
In October 2020, food inflation on a year on year basis was highest in Edo (21.65%), Zamfara (20.88%) and Kogi (20.58%), while Lagos (14.57%), Ogun (14.47%) and Ondo (14.23%) recorded the slowest rise.

On month on month basis, however, October 2020 food inflation was highest in Kwara (3.88%), Edo (3.81%) and Sokoto (3.65%), while Oyo (0.57%) and Jigawa (0.54%) and Taraba (0.29%) recorded the slowest rise on the month on month inflation.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/16/nigeria-october-2020-inflation-rate-rises-to-14-23-as-food-inflation-jumps-to-17-38/

So you’ve found the one you’re ready to take the next step with. Congratulations, there’s nothing we love more than love. Since you’re getting married, your future decisions will now be taken for two and you have to take you and your partner’s health seriously but, this isn’t always the case because the euphoria of starting a new life might make you head straight on without considering some sexual and reproductive health factors – which you need to know because you’ll be starting a family.

To help you prepare better, our couples plans have been carefully designed to take care of you and your partner, ensuring you get just the right kind of healthcare for two and we’ve also picked out the major medical tests you should have before putting a ring on it.

1. HIV and STDs
First on the list of our medical test because we expect things to get ‘steamy’. You should check for the possibility of lifelong infections such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C and Herpes, as well as curable ones like gonorrhoea, syphilis, bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, Chlamydia, etc. Statistics show that 50% of young people will get an STI and not know it.

If everything checks out, that’s great. Not so? It’s okay, the knowledge of your partner’s status will help you take the right measures to protect yourself should you decide to go ahead. Having prior knowledge and taking the appropriate steps as directed by your doctor will also reduce the risk of infertility or miscarriages.

2. Fertility Test

We do love kids over here and having ‘Junior’ is always on the cards when considering marriage. So it’s safe to consider doing fertility tests to avoid surprises and some of the emotional stress associated with it. You should test for both you and your partner because men are liable for up to half of all infertility cases. Fertility tests include seminal analysis, hormonal assay; pelvic ultrasound scans to ascertain the state of the internal reproductive organs and so on.

3. Genotype
We’re still on the baby parade here and believe it’s important to ascertain both your genotypes beforehand to avoid having a child with the sickle cell disease. Sickle Cell disease is associated with a defect in the red blood cells and is a lifelong one – often resulting in serious illness. If you’re of the AA genotype, there’s nothing to worry about but if you are AS, you are a carrier of the sickle cell gene and care must be taken to know if your partner isn’t AS too. If they are, there is a 50% chance of having a child that is of the SS genotype.

4. Blood Group
It’s important to ascertain the blood group of a potential spouse to avoid issues relating to blood group or rhesus incompatibility. Your blood group can either be A, B, O or AB but there’s another component referred to as the Rhesus factor. The Rhesus factor is either positive or negative. If a Rhesus negative woman marries a Rhesus Positive husband, there is a 50% chance the baby will be rhesus positive. In this case, if precautions are not taken during pregnancy, this could lead to haemolytic disease of the newborn.

An understanding of both your blood groups will help your doctor prevent Rhesus incompatibility issues during pregnancy.

5. Chronic Medical Conditions

Having a chronic medical condition isn’t the end of the world. Knowledge will only help both of you be better prepared to look out for each other. Early testing for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, etc., will enable couples to seek medical assistance early enough and also make the necessary lifestyle changes. When it comes to your health, it is always good to know as this sets you on a path to making healthy life choices.

It’s better to be on the safe side when it comes to knowing your sexual health status before getting married. Being aware of any issues or the lack of them leaves you with one less thing to worry about before your big day. So, ensure to conduct the 5 medical tests listed above.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/14/5-medical-tests-you-should-have-before-marriage/

Governor of Lagos State, Mr Jide Sanwo-Olu today unveiled the first Locally-Assembled Electric Car called Hyundai Kona at the Stallion Group Automobile Factory, Ojo Lagos.
Speaking on the Hyundai Kona car, assembled by Stallion Group Automobile at Ojo in Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu said with the unveiling of the car, Nigerians can now drive electric cars, noting that Lagos remains the hub for the nation’s economy & a pacesetter in industrialisation.

The Hyundai Kona car is 100 per cent electric and comes with zero-emission, 482km driving range and can be charged both at home and workplace.

He said: “We are not just launching Hyundai Kona, Nigeria’s first electric car assembled in Lagos, we are indeed empowering and creating youth employment. We are also creating an opportunity for teeming youths of this nation.

“The future that we see is the future of technology and this is the technology that we are talking about. This is 21st Century technology that has been brought into our country. With hardcore manufacturing companies like Stallion Group Automobile, we can begin to see the need to dis-emphasise mono-product, which is oil. “With the innovation of Hyundai Kona, we do not need to put the pressure on what the pump price of oil is again, what the pump price of petroleum is.

Governor Sanwo-Olu while stressing his administration’s commitment to the growth of businesses in the State, said Lagos State Government will partner with Stallion Group Automobile as well as private industries in the State and create an enabling environment for them to do well so that they can create job opportunities for the youths.

He also assured that Lagos State Government would be partnering through Ibile Oil and Gas and other private organisations to create different charging points in Lagos so that people will have the opportunity of where they will charge the electric cars.

KONA Electric, Hyundai Motor Company’s globally loved full electric compact SUV, has surpassed the 100,000 global sales milestone. Cumulative sales of KONA Electric reached 103,719 units as of June 30—just over two years since its launch in March 2018. Sales outside of its home market Korea accounted for more than three-quarters of the total.

In 2018, Auto Express named it the Affordable Electric Car of the Year. The EV also played a role in the KONA nameplate winning Spanish newspaper ABC’s Best Car of the Year award. It also won the 2019 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year.

Building on KONA Electric’s successful legacy, Hyundai Motor Company is focused on making zero-emissions mobility a reality, making it a significant part of its long-term strategy. By 2025, the company aims to sell 560,000 battery electric vehicles in addition to FCEV models.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/13/hyundai-kona-governor-sanwo-olu-unveils-first-locally-assembled-electric-car-in-nigeria-photos/

Taraba State Governor, Arc Darius Dickson Ishaku has described Taraba as a state of immense potentials waiting to be harnessed.
Gov. Ishaku who was speaking during a virtual meeting with US-based Foreign Development and Investment Groups led by Mahmood Mustapha Founder & Futurist FiLab, Silvio F. Pupo CEO Logos Capital, and Peter Mendez President & CEO 1st SOS Inc.

Mendez noted Taraba was desperately looking for investment partners that could assist the state in growing its economy to adequately take care of the growing needs of the youths in the state for gainful employment.

The groups’ areas of special interest, which formed the major plank of discussion during the meeting is the development of investment opportunities for boosting economic growth.

The team had earlier told Gov. Ishaku that the groups have expertise in the establishment of malls, promotion of agriculture, the hospitality industry and mineral resources development and marketing.

Ishaku who was apparently elated by the level of experience of the groups in these areas assured them of the willingness of his administration to partner with them to quicken the pace of development of the state.

He said the idea of establishing a mall was a great attraction and suggested that the first branch of the mall be located in Jalingo.

This, he said, would complement the success of his administration’s Green House project in Jalingo which is already enjoying an expansive market for its products.

The products which include tomatoes, pepper, lettuce, cucumber and other vegetables will use the malls as its primary outlets.

He promised to put a helicopter owned by the State Government at the disposal of the group to facilitate the collaboration.

Another major area of discussion was how to expand rice farming, packaging and marketing. Ishaku told the group that Taraba has one of the best soil to grow rice and required assistance in promoting its marketing.

He said more than sixteen thousand rice farmers in the state have been empowered by his administration since 2017, all whom have become prosperous and the envy of other Tarabans.

He said his administration was determined to do much more for farmers through dry season rice farming which is more productive.

He said he would want to see many small but functional rice mills established in the state as part of the partnership.

He requested for the expert advice and assistance of the group for his government to make farming more attractive to youths in the state.

He also requested for collaboration with the group to promote tourism in Taraba State, noting that the Gashaka Gumti Park located in the state was already attracting international attention.

He said the state was already negotiating an agreement with African Nature Investment for a 30-year lease agreement of the park.

He told the American investment group that the Park is the largest in Africa and is available for investment.

Ishaku told the group not to be frightened by stories of insecurity in the North-Eastern part of Nigeria.

He said though Taraba is located in the region, it is not affected heavily by insecurity, caused by Boko Insurgency.

He extended the invitation of the State Government to the group to visit Taraba State soon to learn more about the state

Earlier, each member of the group had briefed the Governor on their experience in investment promotion and assured him of their determination to work with the government to quicken the pace of development in Taraba State.

The group is to develop a proposal based on the discussion and agreed areas of collaboration for the Governor to study and approve.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/13/taraba-state-us-based-investment-groups-discuss-partnership-to-promote-economic-development/

November 12, 2020 – Nigeria has emerged as the eight-country in this year’s Electricity Regulatory Index Report published by the African Development Bank.
Uganda has for the third time in a row emerged as the top performer in the latest index. Uganda, along with Namibia, Tanzania, Zambia and Kenya, the other top performers, have regulators with the authority to exert the necessary oversight on the sector.

These countries have well-developed electricity regulatory frameworks, and their regulators can exert the necessary regulatory oversight and authority on the regulated entities and the sector for measurable outcomes.

However, the overall electricity regulatory frameworks of African countries is poorly developed, and most countries experience major regulatory weaknesses.

The ERI, a flagship report of the African Development Bank is a composite index which measures the level of development of electricity sector regulatory frameworks in African countries against international standards and best practice.

The ERI 2020 reveals gaps in the quality of service delivery frameworks of most countries. Most (53%) do not have the quality of service regulations or codes. Of those who do, only 17% of those regulations set ceilings on key service reliability indices such as System Average Interruption Duration Index and System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIDI-SAIFI) with appropriate penalties for noncompliance by utilities.

Service Reflective Tariffs in Nigeria – Transitional Path to Cost-reflective Tariffs and Improved Quality of Service Delivery
In 89% of the countries surveyed, regulators do not factor these SAIFI and SAIDI indices into tariffs to incentivize the utilities to reinforce the network to improve service reliability. Consumers are therefore left at the mercy of the discretional powers of the utility when it comes to service reliability.

Exclusion of reliability indices in tariffs denies the utilities the needed funds and incentives to improve the network for improved service reliability. This introduces a vicious tariff cycle that is incommensurate with service delivery. Many consumers are sensitive to electricity supply reliability, especially industrial and commercial consumers, who have zero tolerance for supply outages because of their profitability and viability.

These consumers are often willing to pay commensurate tariffs to incentivize the utilities to deliver a high quality of service. To address this, in August 2020, the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) introduced service reflective tariffs. These are tariffs where consumers are categorized into tariff bands. Each band plays a tariff that is commensurate with guaranteed minimum hours of electricity supply per day.

NERC arrived at this measure when during its public hearing in different franchise areas for tariff review, it observed that, some end-users were willing to pay higher tariffs if the distribution companies could guarantee them some fixed hours of supply.

Under this tariff scheme, minimum hours of supply are specified for five different tariff bands –tariff band A to tariff B and E. Each tariff band has different tariff classes within it. Consumers in tariff band “A” pay the highest tariffs and are guaranteed the highest number of hours of supply per day (a minimum of 20hrs/day).

This reduces gradually to tariff band “E” where consumers pay the least tariffs and are guaranteed the least number of hours of supply (a minimum of four hours of electricity supply per day). Utilities are penalized for failure to meet the guaranteed hours of supply.

This is an innovative two-pronged transitional path towards cost-reflective tariffs. It is an incentive to ensure the ability of supply (reducing SAIDI). While it incentivizes more customers to gradually migrate into higher supply reliability bands and pay commensurate tariffs, it provides the needed revenue and obligates reinforcement of the network over time. This ensures guaranteed and reliable service delivery to the respective bands and eventually to all.

69% OF THE COUNTRIES SURVEYED HAVE REGULATORY MECHANISMS IN PLACE TO FACILITATE ELECTRICITY ACCESS ESPECIALLY TO RURAL CUSTOMERS. HOWEVER, IN 21 OF THE 36 COUNTRIES SURVEYED, IT WAS FOUND THAT THE UTILITY IS NOT INVOLVED IN FUNDING RURAL ELECTRIFICATION BUT RATHER THE GOVERNMENT, NGO’S AND CONSUMERS.

In terms of reliability specifically, the service-reflective tariffs address the duration of outages (SAIDI) but not the frequency of outages (SAIFI). Consumers may enjoy the guaranteed hours but with a high number of interruptions or flickers lasting a few minutes. It therefore does not eliminate the need for developing and implementing appropriate quality of service regulations.

The third edition of the ERI report was launched during the Digital Energy Festival of the Africa Energy Forum, on 5 November 2020. The event brought together more than 70 stakeholders in the energy sector, regulators, international organizations, and development finance institutions like Africa50 and the World Bank.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/12/nigeria-ranked-8th-in-the-latest-electricity-regulatory-index-for-africa-2020/

The rally continues in the equities market as the bulls maintained a stronger position. Notably, the All-Share Index (ASI) jumped by 6.23% to 35,342.46 while market capitalization gained N1.08tn to close at N18.47tn today. Consequently, Year to Date performance improved to 31.67%.
The sectorial performance was significantly bullish as all sectors under coverage closed on a positive note. Banking and industrial indices advanced by 7.94% and 8.65% respectively following bullish sentiment in the shares of ZENITH(+9.96%), GUARANTY (+6.11%), JBERGER (+10.00%), BUACEMENT(10.00%) and DANGCEM (+8.11%).

Similarly, consumer goods, insurance and oil & gas indices advanced by 5.81%, 4.78% and 1.90% on the back of bargain hunting in the shares of NNFM(+10.00%), DANGSUGAR (+9.77%), WAPIC(+8.89%) and OANDO(+9.78%).

The bond market traded on a positive note as yield compressed across short-dated and mid-dated maturities by 0.13% and 0.09% respectively. The yield on the longer end of the curve however trended higher.

Market Snapshot

*Equities Market recorded the largest daily gain in five Years…ASI surged by 6.23%

*Bond market traded on a positive note as average yield deep by 0.08%

*Global Stocks Drop and Treasuries Climb Amid Virus Angst

*U.S. Inflation Tamer Than Forecast Amid Mixed Consumer Demand

*Naira depreciate further in the parallel market

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/12/equities-market-recorded-largest-daily-gain-in-five-years-asi-surged-by-6-23/

President Muhammadu Buhari has launched the National Young Farmers Scheme, an initiative under the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA). It is created to engage 1,000 youth in each of the 774 local councils area in agriculture.

“I now flag off the National Young Farmers’ Scheme. It is my expectation that the Scheme will take in young Nigerians, graduates and non-graduates alike, and be part of this Government’s effort to reduce unemployment and contribute to the regeneration of agriculture and our economy,” the president stated.

Under the National Young Farmers Scheme, National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) intend to inject 774,000 new farmers into the agricultural sector. They are currently running a pilot programme that involves 100 farmers from each of the 774 LGAs of the country.

This is intended to help improve and create an enabling environment for young farmers and those interested in farming to thrive and also, to ensure food security in Nigeria.

If you are interested in the National young farmers scheme, visit a NALDA office closest to you.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/12/how-to-participate-in-the-national-young-farmers-scheme/

The leading Brewer, Guinness is recalling cans of its non-alcoholic stout because of contamination fears, just two weeks after they were launched.
The brewer described the recall as “precautionary” but said “microbiological contamination” might mean some products were unsafe.

The company urged anyone with cans of Guinness 0.0 not to drink them.

“We wanted to let you know that as a precautionary measure we are recalling Guinness 0.0 in Great Britain because of a microbiological contamination which may make some cans of Guinness 0.0 unsafe to consume.”
“If you have bought Guinness 0.0 do not consume it. Instead, please return the product to your point of purchase for a full refund. Alternatively, contact the Diageo Consumer Careline on consumercare.gbandireland@diageo.com or 0345 601 4558 with details of your purchase to receive a refund voucher before disposing of the product.”
“We are sorry that this has happened.”

It said it was working with supermarkets and other shops to remove all of the products from the shelves.
Guinness 0.0 was launched to much fanfare in supermarkets on 26 October, having taken the brewer four years to perfect.

The new stout was created in response to what Guinness said was growing consumer demand for lower-calorie and non-alcoholic drinks.
It is produced with the same amounts of water, barley, hops and yeast as a traditional Guinness before the alcohol is removed using a cold filtration method.

At the time of launch, Guinness bosses insisted that none of the traditional flavours had been lost, with the seal of approval being given by independent taste testers.
The new product was due to become available on draught in pubs next spring, before being launched in other parts of the world later in 2021.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/11/guinness-recalls-alcohol-free-stout-just-2-weeks/

Ekiti State loses the sum of N19.3 million to ghost workers in the local government on monthly basis, the committee on Local Government Staff Verification set up by the Ekiti State government has revealed.
The amount represents salaries and emoluments drawn monthly by 362 ghost workers discovered in the just concluded verification exercise, according to the report submitted by the committee to the Ekiti State governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi in his office on Tuesday.

Ekiti State government had earlier in the year set up an 11-member committee and seven-member subcommittee to investigate the issue of ghost workers in a bid to block financial loopholes in the Local Government System.

The Co-Chairman of the Committee and Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Professor Adio Folayan, who spoke on behalf of the committee, disclosed that the 362 absentees (workers) were discovered on the payroll of the local government service after thorough screening and verification.

Governor Fayemi, while thanking the committee for the professional manner it handled the exercise, promised to study the reports as well as the recommendations.

The Governor said the bulk of the money accrued to the state coffers goes into payment of salaries and emolument, adding that the government had to look for creative ways to ensure the provision of amenities such as good roads, improved education system, better health care services, safe environment, and empowerment.

He said the money recovered into the state coffer from the ghost workers would be used to attend to other government obligations to workers in the State.

Stressing that government has a duty to block all financial leakages in the system, Dr Fayemi instructed the Head of Service, Mrs Peju Babfemi to use her experience in supporting the Local Government Service Commission in ensuring improved consistency in their payrolls.

He said “This is a matter we need to look into, you can’t sit in Lagos and be earning salaries in Ekiti for work you have not done. But it is our duty to stop that from happening, it is not the duty of the person that is cheating the system.

“The resources available to us is limited, we all know this, some pretend not to know but anyone that has limited knowledge of government finances will know that already we spent a bulk of what comes to this state on emolument and we have many people who are not public servants or political appointees, yet they too expect that government will touch their lives. The only way we can touch their lives is to fix the road in their community, improve their schools and their health facilities and that would provide empowerment for them in their community if we can’t find money to do that.

“After this exercise the Committee said they saved N19.2M on a monthly basis, imagine where that will go. N19.2M on a monthly basis is almost N400M on an annual basis that is coming back to the coffers of the State. That will build two schools conveniently of the type that we have just built. It will meet the obligations that we have to workers in certain areas that are in dire need of recruitment of workers whether they are health workers or teachers.

“I want to commend you and the chairman of Local Government Service Commission and the entire members, I am glad that NULGE was part of this, I am particularly happy that you included NULGE in the process. It is in the overall interest of the workers,” the Governor added.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/11/ekiti-state-loses-n19-3m-monthly-to-lg-ghost-workers-report/

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Kano State have been challenged to imbibe the tenets of standardisation and quality assurance with a view to helping to improve the quality of lives of Nigerians.

This call was made by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) State coordinator, Kano State, Alhaji Yunusa Muhammad during a live phone-in programme on Pyramid Radio “Ranar Wanka” conducted in Hausa language recently.

Alh Muhammad enumerated some of the concessions given to MSMEs by SON as including, fifty per cent discount on the purchase of standards and products testing, as well as training. MSMEs representatives are also involved in the standards development process, according to him.

He enjoined local manufacturers in Kano State to voluntarily embrace the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) certification for locally manufactured products in order to meet standards requirements, avoid waste and deliver consistent quality to customers.

Alhaji Mohammad outlined other SON activities as including the off-shore Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP) for imported products from countries of origin, regular market survey, investigation and resolution of consumer complaints as well as management systems training and certification for which he said, SON had international accreditation.

He assured the listeners of SON’s commitment to protecting consumers’ interest through standardization and quality assurance of products, processes and systems.

Responding to a question on Standards enforcement activities in Kano, the SON State Coordinator listed suspected substandard tyres, mosquito coils, electric cables, unfortified sugar, cell phones, gas cylinders etc. as some of the products apprehended in recent months.

According to him, many of these had been destroyed on the orders of the courts, following laboratory tests and analyses confirming failure to meet standards requirements while others are still undergoing due process of quality confirmation, regulatory and judicial procedures.

Speaking on the proliferation of substandard products in Nigerian markets, Alhaji Mohammad lamented the absence of SON at the Ports of entry since 2011, stressing that it was a herculean task to apprehend substandard products once they exit the ports of entry.

He stated that SON activities are carried out in the safest ways to achieve desired objectives through collaboration with all relevant stakeholders for collective success.

The SON Kano State Coordinator advocated self-regulation and voluntary uptake and compliance with standards among manufacturers and importers while also challenging consumers to always demand for value for money through insistence on quality products.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2020/11/10/son-challenges-kano-state-msmes-on-standardisation/