₦airaland Forum

Huawei’s 5G judicious and interpreted core network solution has obtained the “Best 5G Core Network Technology” Award at the 5G World Summit 2019 in London.

5G is set to transform whole industries and promote new applications and business models. The 5G core network is the hub for building ubiquitous connectivity and scheduling network resources. It connects things in addition to people and provides differentiated and deterministic network service capabilities. This enables 5G to better serve the industrial Internet and industry digitalization.

Huawei’s 5G intelligent and simplified core network supports all-cloud-based key technologies such as three-layer decoupling, stateless design, cross-DC deployment, microservices, and A/B test. The network is built on leading cloud native, connectivity+, and edge computing technologies and is the industry’s first core network to support 2G/3G/4G/5G NSA/5G SA in-depth convergence. It provides the Single Voice Core simplified voice solution and CUPS-based distributed architecture. Based on CUPS, it supports one-stop user plane plug and play, on-demand scheduling of heterogeneous edge computing resources, fast integration of third-party applications, and building of an open edge ecosystem, providing differentiated services and enabling thousands of industries.

Ma Liang, director of the Huawei’s Cloud Core Network Product Mgmt. Dept., remarked, “We are honoured to win this award. Huawei has continuously invested in 5G core network R& to gain industry-leading expertise in 5G technology. We collaborate with carriers and industry partners to continuously develop 5G applications in vertical industries, enable a thriving industry ecosystem, and make full preparation for the mature commercial use of 5G.”

As of June 2019, Huawei has won 46 commercial 5G contracts globally and has launched a series of cross-industry collaborations based on network slicing and MEC in smart grid, VR/AR, IoV, remote surgery, smart manufacturing, and other fields, greatly expanding the 5G global ecosystem. Huawei is committed to advancing this technology to better serve our customers with state-of-the-art solutions.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/16/huawei-got-the-best-5g-core-network-technology-award-at-5g-world-summit-held-in-london/

Huawei has been intensively testing HongMeng OS with companies like Tencent, Oppo and Vivo. Based on the tests, it has been revealed that Huawei’s new OS is 60% faster than Google’s Android.

Recall, after Trump administration announced a ban on Huawei products and services, it barred the company from doing business with US tech companies such as Alphabet Inc, whose Android OS is used in Huawei’s phones. However, days later Huawei announced that it is working on its own operating system which will replace Android in its smartphones.

This week, a Huawei executive also announced that the company’s own operating system called Hongmeng OS is ready to roll out to its users soon. Some reports suggest that could be as soon as October this year.

Per the recent extension from Google, Huawei will have access to Android only until August 2019.

A recent report by Global Times suggests that Huawei’s Hongmeng OS will apparently be 60% faster than Android. Reportedly, Oppo and Vivo have sent out their teams to test the new Huawei OS and found the operating system to indeed be 60% faster than Android. We cannot confirm these claims until we get a chance to test it out for ourselves. For all you know, it may just be a matter of building hype for a Chinese alternative to Android OS.

The report, further, also reveals that Tencent is also working with Huawei’s EMUI team to test Hongmeng OS.

Huawei, simultaneously, has applied to trademark its operating system in at least nine countries and Europe. According to data from the UN World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), the trademark has been filed in countries such as Cambodia, Canada, South Korea and New Zealand.

Hongmeng OS will reportedly be used for gadgets ranging from smartphones, portable computers to robots and car televisions. Hongmeng OS is expected to ship on nearly 225 million devices by the end of this year.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/16/huaweis-new-hongmeng-os-reportedly-60-faster-than-android/

The management and owners of the Port Harcourt Mall have empathised with all the injured people in the gas eruption that occurred on Wednesday, June 12 2019. This report was made by the Mall Manager, Mrs.ChiomaOkorie in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

According to her, the Management of the Mall empathizes with all the victims of the unfortunate incident that happened recently. We have undertaken an extensive analysis of the situation alongside other agencies of government and we can assure our customers that the mall is safe for our teeming customers.

In her words, “the gas outburst happened on the evening of June 12, 2019, as a Safety Conscious organization, we have hitherto trained all our security personnel on managing emergencies. Our internal firefighting team were able to curtail the situation within 20 minutes. Simultaneously, mall staff evacuated everyone from the mall, and all those injured were taken to the hospital immediately, and are currently recuperating, we wish them swift recovery.”

“As an organization, we will want to reiterate that the mall is installed with the best safety measure and our safety equipment are top-notch because the safety of all of our tenants and shoppers of utmost importance to us,” she added.

She noted that the commitment of the management and the staff of the mall has kept us from such emergencies in the last five years in which the mall has been in operation. She assured customers that the mall is a very safe place where various family bonding activities takes place and people can get their quality products from all the stores in the mall.

The award-winning Port Harcourt Mall located at Azikiwe Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State has been described as the city’s number one lifestyle destination where global brands are located to address various needs of Nigerians. The mail is ready to serve all residents and visitors to Port Harcourt. The mall was given the Leisure Spot of the Year Award by Garden City Advancement Award in 2016 and 2018 respectively, this was in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the advancement of the city.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/15/port-harcourt-mall-is-safe-for-customers-chioma-okorie/

The Nigeria Postal Service and Fidelity Bank Plc on Thursday entered into a collaboration to deploy modern banking services to Nigerians in 266 rural communities.

The move is part of the measures to boost the level of financial inclusion in the country and reduce the number of those not yet in the formal financial system.

Speaking at the launch of integrated banking services between Fidelity bank and NIPOST in Abuja, Deputy Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr Mohammed Balarabe, said the collaboration would enable the bank to deploy all its banking services in 266 locations using NIPOST offices.

Under this collaboration, he said bank customers can use POS, deposit into any bank operating in Nigeria, withdraw from any bank account in Nigeria, engage in Automated Teller Machine transactions, transfer to any bank account, carry out payment services like taxes, rates and levies; school fees; electricity bills and satellite television subscriptions.

The Post Master General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of NIPOST, Mr Bisi Adegboye, said NIPOST’s collaboration with the bank was part of the efforts to support the efforts of the banking sector to reduce the level of poverty in the country.

He said, “The Internet has taken away the old ways of making money from NIPOST but has also opened exponential opportunities by leveraging new technology and ICT to tap into current trends of transactions like online purchases.”

“This partnership also avails Fidelity Bank the opportunity to expand its network using the over 1,800 post office facilities nationwide to take banking closer to the people in line with the Federal Government’s Financial Inclusion policy which places high premium on providing financial services to the under-banked and unbanked populace, who work in the informal sector of the economy without or less access to financial services.”

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/16/nipost-fidelity-bank-deploy-banking-service-to-266-rural-communities/

The International Day of Family Remittances is observed every year on 16 June in recognition of the fundamental contribution of migrant workers to their families and communities back home and to the sustainable development of their countries of origin.

In 2018, over 200 million migrant workers sent US$689 billion back home to remittance reliant countries, of which US$529 billion went to developing countries. That’s over three times the amount of official development assistance and beyond foreign direct investment combined.

A staggering one billion, or one in seven people in the world, are involved with remittances, either by sending or receiving them. One in nine people in the world – around 800 million – benefit from these flows.

Between 2015 and 2030 (the SDG timeframe), an estimated US$8.5 trillion will be sent by migrants back to their communities of origin in developing countries. Of that amount, more than US$2 billion will either be saved or invested.

Migrant workers send on average US$200 or US$300 home every one or two months. This represents only 15 per cent of what they earn, as the rest stays in their host countries. What they send can make up to 60 per cent of a household’s total income and represents a lifeline for millions of families.

About 75 per cent of remittances is used to put food on the table and cover medical expenses, school fees or housing expenses. At times of crises, migrant workers may send more money home to cover loss of crops or family emergencies. The rest, about 25 per cent of remittances, representing over US$100 billion per year, can be either saved or invested in asset building or activities that generate income, jobs and transform economies, in particular in rural areas. Remittances can be an engine of development.

Remittances matter enormously in rural areas. Around half of the global remittances go to rural areas where 75 per cent of the world’s poor and food insecure live. Globally, the accumulated flows to rural areas over the next five years will reach 1US$ trillion.

Remittances can be costly to send. Conversions and fees cost, on global average, seven per cent of the amount sent. Sustainable Development Goal 10.c aims to reduce transaction costs to less than three per cent by 2030. Technical innovations, in particular, mobile technologies, digitalization and blockchain can fundamentally transform the markets, coupled with a more conducive regulatory environment. Migrants make an invaluable contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, through remittances and investments. In particular, they contribute to ending poverty (SDG 1), zero hunger (SDG 2), good health (SDG3), quality education (SDG 4), clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), decent work and economic growth (SDG and reduced inequalities (SDG 10).

Migrant contribution to development, through remittances and investments, has been recognized in Objective 20 of the Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2018.

AD’s Financing Facility for Remittances (FFR) works to leverage the impact of remittances in rural areas by promoting innovative business models to lower transfer costs and provide financial services for migrants and their families. Through cross-sector partnerships, the FFR implements initiatives to empower migrants and their families through financial education and inclusion, while promoting migrant investment and entrepreneurship.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/15/ten-reasons-why-money-remittances-is-important/

Yesterday, while I was in public transport, I saw a woman with a slip that looked like a receipt but was more like a sports bet ticket, but I was not sure what it is. Then it occurred to me, that I have not seen women playing sports bet. That probed me to ask a few questions around. Do women bet? Yes, they do. Do they play sports bet? Some actually play. Afterwards, I took a reflect, and I thought that probably, the woman I saw was holding a bet ticket and had to go far away from home to play – and possibly hid it from those in the public transport.

Humans take a lot of risks while they still breathe, and none probably ranks more among than betting and gambling. This risk can be seen as addictive in nature, and, to some, very damaging. To some, however, it is worth living for.

While still interrogating the question which is do women bet? It dawned on me that I have not seen a woman in a sports bet shop except those who work there. Then I asked around do women play sports bets? I got replies from mostly women and a few men concerning this. According to them, women rarely go to sports shops. Interrogating further, I discovered that they preferred betting online, or sending someone to place their stake. I asked why? And I got responses centred around being shy, not wanting to feel awkward or seen as a wayward person. While doing the interrogation, I remembered that a friend of mine used to help his sister to play sports bet whenever he went to play his.

Then I started to ask these questions: Are Sports betting brands leveraging on this target audience and the opportunity for growth that comes along with it? Do the marketing and communications plan entail planning for women who bet?. While on this, I saw an article written by Jo Lauder who quoted Deakin University gambling researcher, Associate Professor Samantha Thomas and it goes like this: “What we’ve seen over the last 12 months is a change, not only in the tone of those ads, but we’re really starting to see more gender-neutral ads and some ads we think would be particularly appealing for women”.

Now, I have not come across any sports betting ads involving women in their betting process, nor have I spotted any advert that fights the perception of sports betting people (women inclusive) as wayward people and if I am wrong please write to me to correct my mistake.

Beyond ads, are there any promotions and strategy in place to attract more women into the act of betting?. Have they sat down to have a rethink of the games available and include neutral games and diversify along the lines of having games that would attract women too?

I went on to explore why women play and I got responses such as playing for the money, the prediction is fun and taking a risk and all this got me thinking, why not make sports betting much more fun and have more risk-taking activities introduced.

Well, these are just thoughts in the head of a nobody who sees the world with a broken lens which he manages.

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/15/women-can-bet-too-you-know/

Rugby Africa uncovers a different game format where the 16 best African teams will battle in a truly continental rugby championship made up of 20 matches divided into 3 stages.

Starting from November 2019, 16 teams will compete in the new Rugby Africa Cup (RAC) with an aim to qualify for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in 2022. This format is more inclusive and easier to follow. The top 16 teams based on the African ranking will compete in a single coordinated competition until the last two faces each other in the final.

The first stage consists of a qualifying round: the teams ranked 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th will oppose the teams ranked 13th, 14th, 15th and 16th, respectively, in a single match at home. The winner of each of these four matches will progress to the group phase. In this second stage, the 12 teams are divided into 4 pools; inside each pool, the 3 teams play against each other in a home or away game. The winner of each group will progress to the final tournament of the RAC. The top four teams from Africa will meet in one venue for the final stage of the RAC, which will include two semi-finals, a play-off for third place and, ultimately, the final to decide who will be the African champions.

Between the elimination series, the group rounds and the final tournament, there will be a total of twenty matches spread over up to sixteen different host countries across Africa.

“This arrangement gives every team a chance to make it to the finals and will reward merit and performance. The teams that are eliminated in the first round will have another chance in November 2020 to try and re-qualify. Rugby Africa is already exploring the possibility of creating play-offs with other nations not currently part of the 16 but who are keen to be included. All the member countries of Rugby Africa looking forward to participating in this competition! This exciting format is a totally different model of competition, with each of the three stages offering its own unique set of challenges.” Andrew Owor, Vice President of Rugby Africa said.

“Our idea with RAC is to create a clear path for the African teams who are fully aware of the steps they need to take to qualify for the Rugby World Cup. But what is also interesting for the teams that might find it challenging to qualify for France 2023, is that RAC gives them a new set of objectives: to secure a place in the group phase so that they can see how they measure up to the best teams, or even better, to join the top eight to be sure of a place in RAC the following year,” added Guédel N’Diaye, director of competitions with Rugby Africa.

The president of Rugby Africa, Khaled Babbou, expanded on the strategy behind this new project: “We are completely revising our system of competition. There was a study phase immediately after the inauguration of the new executive committee which led us to make difficult but necessary decisions to reposition our brand so that it brings more value to our federations and our partners in the long term. By introducing this new format, we hope to forge new partnerships that will allow us to improve our offering every year.”

“Rugby Africa is committed to a dual strategy, with an objective to stimulate more countries to get involved in the adventure that is rugby, to produce a great pool of high-level African athletes and to raise up our teams to a standard of excellence so that they gain recognition at an international level. Rugby Africa is already working in this direction with the other regions and with World Rugby to set up more encounters between the different continents so that our teams can increase their match experience.”

Herbert Mensah, co-opted member of the Executive Committee of Rugby Africa, underlines the importance of this decision in the strategic framework of Rugby Africa’s communication and promotion plans : “The Board’s ability to attract new media partners in addition to APO Group will ensure that sponsors and their contributions will be viewed across the continent as well as globally. It is our aim to sensitise current global sponsors of the largest growing emerging market which is Africa. This is a very bold move on the part of the Board aiming and it will require unions and regions to work closely together to raise awareness, competitions and sponsorship for other supporting programmes”

“The unveiling of this new competition format is very exciting for us at APO Group because it gives us an opportunity to further optimise our communication plans promoting African rugby. The new easy to follow format helps with brand positioning as we work together to attract new sponsors. We have always been aligned with the values of leadership and spirit of commitment that Africa rugby represents and we look forward to continuing our support of the journey and evolution of the game”, said Lionel Reina, CEO of APO Group, the Main Official Partner of Rugby Africa.

Participating Teams

Current African rankings (Men’s senior, Rugby Union) used as a basis for the Rugby Africa Cup :

1. Namibia
2. Kenya
3. Uganda
4. Tunisia
5. Zimbabwe
6. Algeria
7. Morocco
8. Zambia
9. Madagascar
10. Côte d’Ivoire
11. Senegal
12. Ghana
13. Botswana
14. Mauritius
15. Rwanda
16. Nigeria

Elimination stage: November 2019 – 4 single matches

23 November: Côte d’Ivoire vs Rwanda in Abidjan / Ghana vs Botswana in Ghana

30 November : Senegal vs Mauritius in Dakar

1 December : Madagascar vs Nigeria in Antananarivo

Group stage: From June 2020 onwards – 3 matches per group, 12 in total

Group A: Namibia, Zambia, Winner of the match Madagascar vs Nigeria

Group B: Kenya, Morocco, Winner of the match Côte d’Ivoire vs Rwanda

Group C: Uganda, Algeria, Winner of the match Senegal vs Mauritius

Group D: Tunisia, Zimbabwe, Winner of the match Ghana vs Botswana

Final stage: July to August 2020 – 4 matches

Semi-final 1: Group A Winner vs Group D Winner

Semi-final 2: Group B Winner vs Group C Winner

Play-off for 3rd place: Loser of semi-final 1 vs Loser of semi-final 2

Grand final: Winner of Semi-final 1 vs Winner of semi-final 2

SOURCE:https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/14/launch-of-the-rugby-africa-cup-rac-the-qualifying-competition-for-the-2023-rugby-world-cup/

Nestlé declared today the introduction of MATERNA Opti-Lac, a probiotic clarification for lactating mothers, to assist them to decrease the chance of breast pain and mastitis – a painful inflammatory condition of the breast – during breastfeeding.

MATERNA Opti-Lac is a food supplement that contains a patented unique probiotic strain L. fermentum LC40, naturally found in breastmilk of healthy mums to support breast health.

MATERNA Opti-Lac is being launched first in Hong Kong with several markets to follow in the coming months globally. The hard gel capsules should be taken daily from the start of breastfeeding. Products will be available in pharmacies, drugstores, baby stores, retail shops and hospitals.

Thierry Philardeau, Head of Nutrition Strategic Business Unit, said: ‘’Maternal and infant nutrition are equally important in the first 1000 days of life. We offer high-quality, nutritionally balanced and science-based products to mothers and babies during this period. With MATERNA Opti-Lac, we are helping mothers to continue breastfeeding and offer their babies a solid foundation for life. It is a privilege to accompany many millions of mothers on this journey.’’

Breastmilk is the ideal nutrition for babies. This is why Nestlé promotes, protects and supports World Health Organization’s recommendation of six months exclusive breastfeeding, followed by the introduction of adequate nutritious complementary foods along with sustained breastfeeding up to two years of age and beyond.

During breastfeeding, problems such as breast pain or mastitis can leave mums feeling so unwell that they often stop breastfeeding. Mastitis affects up to 1 in 3 mums especially in the first 3 months of breastfeeding.

Research has shown that L. fermentum LC40 may be an effective way to help mums reduce the risk of breast pain and mastitis while allowing them to continue breastfeeding.

Nestlé has been active in developing science-based products and services that support pregnant or breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Through cutting-edge research initiatives such as LIFE(Lactation for Infant Feeding Expertise), the company is better equipped to understand human milk composition and its association with maternal nutritional status and infant health.

Last year the company launched MATERNA G-Balance, a new nutritional solution for pregnant women to help prevent gestational diabetes. With the introduction of MATERNA Opti-Lac, Nestlé is strengthening its portfolio, underlining its commitment to support optimal nutrition for mothers and babies during the first 1000 days of life.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/14/nestle-introduces-new-product-for-lactating-mothers-to-aid-breastfeeding/

GOKADA, Nigeria’s on-demand bike-hailing startup is set to launch GBoat in Lagos.

This is coming a few weeks after the firm revealed it raised about $5.3 million from investors, the startup has declared its plan to introduce boat services. The category will be called GBoat and will be launched before the second quarter of 2020, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

This development was suggested through Gokada’s email update to its customers, adding that it will help them circumvent the notorious Lagos traffic jam.

Boat and ferry services are not new in Lagos State. But the market has not shown much promise in the area of innovation and topnotch services. Issues of safety have also plagued many operators as cases of boat mishaps claiming lives are occasionally recorded.

Over 20 percent of Lagos landmass is occupied by water which signifies huge untapped marketing opportunities in the marine transportation sector.

Market watchers and analysts believe that if any disruption is going to take place in that market, potential players must be ready to innovate and reposition by addressing safety, cost and quality issues among others.

One of the potential competitors to GBoat is ORide, a motorcycle-hailing service in the OPay mobile payment app. With a $100 million released to its African operations, there are hints the company has plans to foray into logistics and other related services.

If the above market prediction is anything to go by, GBoat and maybe, ‘OBoat’ would be contending with Lagos State and a few other players.


SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/11/gokada-set-to-launch-gboat-in-lagos/

For the most part, people love social media. It’s an ideal environment to freely share content and stay up-to-date with family and friends. This also makes it perfect for brands wanting to position themselves and engage directly with their customers. However, there is a dark side to all of this, one involving counterfeit goods and billions of Rands of lost revenue for companies and governments the world over.

If you are representing a brand, the statistics make for grim reading.

The amount of total counterfeiting globally has breached the trillion dollar mark (2017, $1.2 trillion) and is expected to reach $1.82 trillion by 2020. The 2018 Global Brand Counterfeiting Report estimates that the losses suffered due to online counterfeiting globally have amounted to $323 billion in the year 2017, roughly 10% of which came from counterfeiting high-end luxury goods.

From a social media perspective, one of the biggest culprits in this regard has been Instagram.

According to research by Ghost Data, the number of counterfeit accounts active on the platform has risen by 171% in the past three years. In 2016, counterfeit accounts published 14.5 million posts. In 2019, they published more than 64 million posts – a growth of more than 341%.

“Of course, blaming Instagram for the world’s counterfeiting woes seems like an easy way out. Instead, people, organisations, and authorities must examine how the state of social media today is creating an enabling environment for this illicit trade to grow with fake accounts being opened quicker than they are closed by companies,” says Paul Ramara, a partner at Spoor & Fisher.

In many respects, social media has taken a real-world problem and turned it into a digital business that makes finding offenders a time-consuming and costly exercise.

Fake football merchandise
Following the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Facebook revealed that over the course of the tournament, 383 million of its users and 272 million Instagram users (which it owns) had interacted with the event. What was not mentioned was how these platforms were used as vehicles for trade in counterfeit football merchandise. Today, almost a quarter of online purchases involve some form of intellectual property right infringement, with nearly 90% of people doing so willingly.

“Clearly, more work needs to be done to educate people about the impact counterfeit goods have on economies. From a consumer perspective, there are several things to bear in mind when it comes to being tricked into buying an illicit product online,” adds Ramara.

Spotting a fake
When it comes to luxurious fashion items, if the price is too good to be true, then it generally is. Designer goods have become the most popular to knock-off and sell as originals on social media platforms and this directly correlates to the low price point of counterfeits. Also, reading the product reviews on an online site and going through its refund and return policy generally gives a good indication if it is a legitimate business.

Some of the more obvious signs that the site (or goods) fall on the wrong side of the law is spelling mistakes on brand names and dubious website addresses. A consumer must always double-check a link before they click through.

One of the most dangerous aspects around counterfeiting is the view that it might not be morally wrong. After all, the argument goes, luxury brands are making a fortune on selling their products so what difference will it make if an individual buys a cheap copy?

“The reality could not be more different. Not only are people’s livelihoods at stake (if companies start losing money, the retrenching staff is a typical strategy to employ) but also their lives. For example, imagine buying sports safety equipment online that could be counterfeit and being hit on the head. The repercussions could be significant,” says Ramara in conclusion.

“People need to be more aware of the risks of counterfeit goods.”

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/10/how-social-media-has-become-a-breeding-ground-for-counterfeit-sales/

This is to notify our esteemed shareholders and other stakeholders of a further delay by Lafarge Africa Plc to release/publish its annual Audited Financial Statements for the year ended 31st December 2018 as required by extant Rules of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

The delay is necessitated by pending actions required for the resolution of key matters relating to the closure of the Company’s Annual Audited Financial Statement for the year ended 31st December 2018.

Consequently, the approval of The Nigerian Stock Exchange has been sought for the delay/late filing of the Audited Financial Statements.

We are optimistic that all the issues will be fully resolved and the Audited Financial Statements will be submitted not later than the 28th of June 2019.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/10/lafarge-africa-plc-notifies-of-further-delay-in-filing-of-its-2018-audited-financial-statements/

Gokada Nigeria Visits the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi in commemorating of the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. it was quite unusual of them but this was an emotional one for the organization.

This was shared on one of their social media platforms.



SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/10/gokada-visit-national-orthopaedic-hospital-igbobi/

Danone Nutricia, a multinational food organisation has originated one of its front infant food brands in the world, Aptamil Infant formula, into the Nigerian store.

Speaking at the launch in Lagos, the Country Manager for Danone Nutricia in Nigeria, Yaw Agyarko, explained that the baby formula was unveiled as part of the company’s ambition in providing quality and healthier solutions to infants.

According to the company, Aptamil contains a unique blend of key nutrients including carbohydrate, protein, vitamins, minerals (basically fat soluble) and other micro-nutrients, reports Beverage News.

“We believe that Aptamil, being a global brand, will be very successful in Nigeria because the nutrients it contains are supported by over 40 years of research,” he opined.

He further stated that the company has also been working with the National Agency for Food & Drug Administration & Control (NAFDAC) to counter the influx of parallel imports on the market.

Parallel imports have been cited to not only undermine quality and safety of products but also exploit consumers and implicate manufacturers’ performance – since they are traded outside of the manufacturer’s distribution system, without the manufacturer’s consent.

“Our plan is simple – to compliantly fill the demand for this global brand in Nigeria”. Previously, people have brought in non-compliant products into the country where safety and quality, for example, cannot be guaranteed,” said Agyarko.

“With Danone compliantly bringing in Aptamil into the country, you can be assured that the safety and quality can be guaranteed as we will ensure shipping in temperature-controlled reefer containers and storage by our partners WWCV at conditions approved by Danone.

“Worldwide Commercial Ventures provides world-class storage, one of the major reasons we have chosen to partner with them,” he affirmed.

This, according to him, this one of the approaches that Danone Nutricia has pursued to fulfil the quality assurance promises made to the healthcare professionals, mothers and their babies.

“Additionally, we will introduce the MAS technology to ensure mothers can satisfy themselves at the point of purchase, that they are getting the NAFDAC approved authentic Aptamil.

According to Santosh Kumar, Managing Director, WWCV, the product has been developed using best-in-class technology and research to ensure high safety and quality.

Founded in 1896, Danone Nutricia works with healthcare professionals and carers to educate about early life nutrition through advice and support, as well as products and services.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/10/danone-nutricia-introduces-aptamil-baby-formula-in-nigerian-market/

Dangote Group has flamed the path by growing the first Nigerian company to openly reveal how it is business influences lives.

Dangote Cement Plc, the most capitalised company in Nigeria and highest generators of cement in Africa, which was also ranked amongst the top 10 in the world, lately flamed the way as the leading rated organisation to perform the facts behind its sustainability statement to investors and analysts on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

The point it desired to explain and which it succeeded doing as it presented its fact sheet to investors and analysts was to tell the world that its prime purpose of developing its fast-growing cement business across the continent of Africa, beginning from Nigeria, is not to just make the money, but to also better the lives of the people everywhere it runs its business in seven critical ways.

The President and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, made the objective of the conglomerate for embracing the global sustainability tenets succinctly clear: “It’s not all about making money. It’s about making an impact. For more than 20 years, Dangote was just a trading company. Then we decided we wanted to be an industrial giant and we had to start from somewhere. It wasn’t just about cement. It was about industrialisation. If you look at what Dangote Group is doing, it’s about improving people’s lives”.

Dangote’s Group Chief Sustainability& Governance Executive, Dr. Ndidi Nnoli-Edozien, also notes that the main driver of sustainability in the group is the fact that the global business space is fast evolving and that more and more, the critical question that entrepreneurs and CEOs are made to answer is: “what is the impact of your business on stakeholders and the society?”

“It is, therefore, part of our business strategy to always ensure that our market presence is positively felt, not just in the local communities where our businesses are directly sited, but within the larger population and host countries. This is the only way we can continue to grow sustainably and make an even greater impact,” Edozien asserted.

Sustainability Pillars

The Dangote Group sustainability programme is hinged on seven pillars. They are financial, economic, operational, institutional, social, environmental and cultural.

Financially, the group intends to achieve sustainable financial health through a business model that delivers strong returns to shareholders, whilst creating value in the economies in which it operates, by selling high-quality products at affordable prices, supported by excellent customer service.

It wants to build a world-class institution centred around corporate governance best practices and sustainability principles that promote legal and regulatory compliance, transparency and business continuity.

Economically, the group is set out to promote inclusive, sustainable economic growth, self-reliance, self-sufficiency and industrialisation across Africa, by establishing efficient production facilities and developing resilient local economies in strategic locations and key market.

In the area of operations, Dangote Group yearns to serve and satisfy its markets by working together with partners to deliver the best products and services to its valued customers and stakeholders, through continuous product improvement, new business development, employing state-of-the-art technologies and systems to constantly optimise cost-efficiencies.

Environmentally, the focus of the group is to create sustainable environmental management practices, through a proactive approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities of climate change, while optimising its performance in energy efficiency, water usage and emissions. The cultural pillar embodies its core values in the way it does business which includes respect for cultural diversity and giving back to the societies in which it operates. “To achieve this, we actively encourage teamwork, empowerment, inclusion, equity, integrity and meritocracy within our organisation.”

And socially, it is creating a learning environment and platform for its employees to grow and achieve their fullest potential, whilst adhering to the highest standards of health and safety. “In our host communities, we strive to develop resilient and sustainable prosperity through direct and indirect employment, skills transfer and local entrepreneurial development.”

Impact

For Dangote Group, operationalising its seven sustainability pillars means supporting Africa to develop rapidly and sustainably. This is why it continues to invest in sectors that have the potential to bolster infrastructure development, massive job creation, and to reverse Africa’s decades of import dependence which has stifled local industries and foreign exchange earnings.

For example, from importing 68 per cent of its cement needs as in 2004, Nigeria is now a net exporter of the commodity, due mostly to Dangote Cement’s huge investments and aggressive expansion.

Today, Dangote Cement makes up seven out of every 10 bags of cement used across Africa. “As we grow, we are committed to ensuring that our business growth translates to positive socio-economic progress in the markets where we do business,” Dangote said.

Through its sustainability function, Dangote Group is enacting the philosophy that a win-win approach to business helps it build a sustainable and respected brand. “We propose to earn our social licence to operate by building sustainable local economies around all our areas of operation. We value the contributions of our stakeholders towards the success story that the Dangote brand has become. We will continue to engage our host communities and build long-lasting, mutually-beneficial relationships. We understand the importance of securing the well-being of our people, local communities, and the natural environment.”

Towards achieving its lofty sustainability goals, Dangote Cement Group held its first ever sustainability week across its Nigerian and Pan African operations in 2018 where over 500 Dangote employees took part in social impact initiatives that further strengthened its relationship with host communities.

Also to keep its sustainability journey on track, the group is leveraging various global partnerships which include the United Nations Global Compact, the World Economic Forum, and the Global Cement and Concrete Association. Dangote says it is committed to sustainability principles and standards such as the IFC Performance Standards, the Nigerian Stock Exchange Sustainability Disclosure Guidelines and the Global Reporting Initiative.

“As one of the 10 biggest cement companies in the world, we recognise the need to align with global standards and best practices. We also realise that the adoption of global sustainability principles and standards is good for our business.”

The group says it is strongly optimistic about Africa’s economic prospects and is committed to using its quality products, services and investments to expedite the continent’s sustainable growth and development.

“We aim to be number one in everything that we do. Our business strategy has always been one that enables our ‘play to win’ approach. Sustainability is gaining more traction across the Dangote Group as we deepen our commitment to deploying a win-win approach to business partnerships, whilst retaining industry leadership in Nigeria, Africa and the globe,” Dangote assures.

Benefit

Dangote financial performance in 2018 gives credence to its commitment to growing a world-class business that increasingly creates and sustains value for all stakeholders. Compared with 2017, the group’s gross revenues in the year under review grew by 11.9 per cent, from N805 billion to N901 billion. Profit before tax also rose by 13.8 per cent year-on-year, from N454 billion to N517 billion in 2018. A review of its value-added performance shows that earnings per share rose from N11.6 to N22.8, a 96.5 per cent increase over the 2017 figure. Wages, salaries and other employees’ benefits also increased by 15.4 per cent, from N49.9 billion to N57.6 billion. Similarly, wealth created for local suppliers and vendors across its supply chain rose by four per cent, from N281 billion in 2017 to N292 billion in the year under review.

In addition to nurturing its growth numbers which are critical to its financial pillar, Dangote group also made tremendous progress in its economic and social pillars in 2018. With over N1.4 billion new investments in social projects and nearly 1000 students benefitting from Dangote scholarships in its Nigerian operations alone, it remains focused on building lasting relationships with host communities, enhancing their socioeconomic wellbeing and sustaining its social license to operate.

“We also continue to improve on our health and safety standards in the workplace and in local communities as well as our investments in human capital development.”

The group says Dangote Cement Plc remains the flagship from which its sustainability agenda will be replicated across all the other businesses, is poised to harness best practices in sustainability and governance to further solidify its leadership in the diverse markets where it plays.


SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/09/dangote-group-reveals-how-it-is-business-influences-lives-ahead-of-wealth-creation/

Airplane Mode is a principal tool in smartphones that many users do not worry with. Nevertheless, it has its advantages and they can be really effective. See how this can help you below.

Saves battery

Your phone consumes a lot of energy to keep networks working at all times. Only in this way can you receive calls and text messages, and connect to the Internet without Wi-Fi. If you need to save the battery from your phone, and you do not care to stay connected to the network connections, just activate this feature.

Fast charging for the phone

With very simple logic, when you turn off the phone and it is charging, the charging speed will be fast because you simply stop all the power consumption in the phone, which happens the same but less when you put the phone in flight mode during charging.

Avoid roaming charges

If you are unsure about setting up your roaming device or roaming charges, it is best to activate the aeroplane mode on your device to avoid receiving calls or messages while travelling, thus avoiding high roaming charges.

Avoid game ads

If you want to play a game on your smartphone, and you want to avoid the number of annoying ads in it, just activate this feature, it cuts off any connection to your phone with the Internet, which will stop the emergence of ads.

More security

If you have young children and love playing on your smartphone but you do not want to communicate unintentionally with one or the other, you should not turn on this feature.


SOURCE : https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/08/5-ways-in-which-airplane-mode-can-help-you/

Parallel parking is the style of car parking in parallel with a roadway, in line with other, previously parked cars. You should know that if you want to make a successful reverse parallel parking, the distance between previously parked cars has to be equal to one and a half meters more than the length of your car.

1. Parallel Parking Steps

turn on the alarm;stop the car in a half a meter from the front parked car, so that its left rear corner is at your right rear wheel, be sure to switch to neutral gear;look back over the right shoulder, turn on the reverse, start to move back slowly;turn the steering wheel to the right so that the car goes to the right rear corner of the free space;when the front seat of your car reaches the rear bumper in front of the parked car, and you will see the right headlight of the car behind you in your left mirror, put the steering wheel straight and slowly go backwards;when the front bumper of your car reaches the rear bumper of the car in front of you, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left and complete the movement of your car in reverse;if it is necessary, slightly trim your car;after the car is parked in the parking pocket, turn the steering wheel and set the wheels straight, switch the gear to the parking mode, do not forget to activate the parking brake after stopping.

Having parked your car, make sure that the nearby cars will be free to leave the parking lot.

Parallel parking is considered successful if the marking equipment was not brought down, the car did not stall, it was possible to correctly install it for a one-time reverse gear inclusion while performing the parallel parking.

Parallel Parking Tips And Tricks

Be sure to learn the basics of reverse driving.Start your training in a quiet residential area. It is better to start with the only car parked at the curb.Make sure the car in front of you is parked correctly, as you will use it as a guide. A properly parked vehicle should stand parallel to the curb at a distance of about 20-30 cm from it.Assess the overall dimensions of the parked car and your car. If you find a car of the same size as yours, learning parallel parking will be much easier.Pre-signal a maneuver and look in the rearview mirror. Make sure that the driver of the car that moves behind you understands what you intend to do!

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/06/parallel-parking-instructions-and-strategy/

Affalterbach. Among an output of up to 416 hp, the completely newly developed Mercedes-AMG 2.0-liter M 139 engine is the world’s most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine in series production. With this engine, Mercedes-AMG has even exceeded the previously most powerful M 133 engine by 40 hp. Maximum torque has also increased from 350 to up to 369 lb-ft. With an output per litre of up 208 hp, the new Mercedes-AMG high-performance turbo engine even ranks ahead of many well-known supercar engines. The new, highly efficient engine is produced on an innovative production line in Affalterbach, on the “One Man, One Engine” principle.

The four-cylinder engine is available in two output versions for the compact models of Mercedes-AMG: with 416 hp for the S-model and 382 hp in the base version. This product policy logic has already proved successful in the V8- powered AMG Performance models, and more closely meets customer wishes.

Apart from its performance figures, the new engine impresses with its immediate response. To this end, the torque curve was carefully balanced with “torque shaping”: The peak torque of 369 lb-ft (354 lb-ft for the base version) is available in a range of 5000-5250 rpm (4750-5000 rpm in the base version).

With this configuration, the AMG engineers have achieved a power delivery similar to that of a naturally aspirated engine for an even more emotional driving experience. The engine developers were also able to realize a dynamically increasing torque curve in the lower engine speed range, thereby improving agility. The increasing torque at higher rpm makes the engine more free revving. Moreover, the high maximum engine speed (up to 7200 rpm) confirms the M 139 as a sports engine.

“We already set the benchmark in the segment with the preceding engine. This fundamentally new four-cylinder presented us with the challenge of doing even better. And we succeeded with a number of sometimes revolutionary solutions. With the M 139, we have once again impressively demonstrated the engine expertise of Mercedes-AMG. Not only is the output per litre unrivalled for a turbocharged engine, but the high level of efficiency also demonstrates that the internal combustion engine still has further potential,” says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Why “One Man, One Engine” was reinvented

The new engine is entirely assembled by hand. On the first floor of the AMG engine manufactory in Affalterbach, a completely newly designed production line was installed in which Mercedes-AMG has brought the “One Man, One Engine” principle to a new level, together with Industry 4.0 methods that incorporate the latest findings in ergonomics, materials handling, quality assurance, sustainability and efficiency. On the road to implementing Industry 4.0, AMG’s hand assembly operation likewise follows the vision of “smart production”. This excels with maximum flexibility and is transparent and highly efficient. It safeguards and improves the quality of the engines and production processes using innovative and digital technologies.

“We have completely revised the principle of “One Man, One Engine” for assembly of the M 139. The result is an ultra-modern production process that places the focus on people. To achieve this, we created the ideal working conditions in a bright, precisely organized and clean environment for our employees. This provides the best basis for continuing to ensure our high-quality level even as the technology becomes more complex,” says Emmerich Schiller, COO and member of the Board of Management at Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Why a 180-degree rotation brings many advantages

The new engine excels with numerous intelligent design features. Compared to the transversely installed M 260 four-cylinder in the “35” models or the preceding M 133 engine, the new Mercedes-AMG M 139 is rotated around its vertical axis by 180 degrees. This means that the turbocharger and the exhaust manifold are positioned at the rear, on the side of the firewall when viewed from behind. The intake system is therefore positioned at the front. This configuration allows the flattest possible and aerodynamically advantageous front section design. Furthermore, the new arrangement allows for improved air ducts with shorter distances and fewer diversions – both on the intake and exhaust side.

How roller bearings improve the responsiveness of the turbocharger

The new twin-scroll turbocharger combines optimum responsiveness at low engine speeds with high power in the upper rpm range. In addition to this, the turbine housing is divided into two flow passages that run parallel to one another. Together with the divided ducts in the exhaust manifold, this makes it possible to feed the exhaust flow to the turbine separately.

The aim is to prevent the individual cylinders from influencing each other negatively during load cycles and to improve the gas cycle. The result is higher torque at lower engine speeds and extremely quick responsiveness.

Furthermore, the shafts of the compressor and turbine have roller bearings for the first time – similar to the top output variant of the AMG 4.0-liter V8 engine in the AMG GT 4-door Coupe. The roller bearings reduce mechanical friction within the turbocharger to a minimum. The charger, therefore, responds more readily and reaches its maximum speed of up to 169,000 rpm more rapidly.

How electronic charge pressure control optimizes responsiveness

With a maximum charge pressure of 2.1 bar (1.9 bar in the base version), the 2.0-litre turbo engine is also a top performer in this respect. The electronically controlled wastegate (exhaust relief valve) allows the charge pressure to be controlled even more precisely and flexibly while optimizing responsiveness, especially when accelerating from the partial load. Numerous parameters are taken into account in this process.

The main input signals for the wastegate control unit are the charge pressure, throttle flap position and the knocking tendency. The modifying signals include the intake air temperature, engine temperature, engine speed and atmospheric pressure. This also makes temporary boosting of the charge pressure (overboost) possible under acceleration.

Fresh air is used in addition to oil and water to cool the turbocharger. This is directed specifically to the charger from the radiator grille, via the engine cover designed as an air deflector and ducts beneath the hood.

The concept is based on the principles and experience gained with the cooling for the internally mounted turbochargers of the current AMG 4.0-litre V8 engines, starting with the AMG GT in 2014. In addition, the turbine housing incorporates integral insulation.

The advantages of the crankcase

An all-aluminium crankcase is a chill-cast unit, which excels with outstanding material properties. In this process, the molten aluminium is poured into the metallic mold. Thanks to its good thermal conductivity, the water-cooled mold allows rapid cooling and solidification of the melt. The result is a fine-grained, dense structure that guarantees very high strength.  Complex interior geometries can be realized with the help of enclosed sand cores.

The closed-deck construction – a design from motor racing – ensures outstanding rigidity with low weight, and allows peak combustion pressures of up to 160 bar. The areas around the cylinders are mostly solid; only smaller ducts for the coolant and engine oil penetrate the cover plate. The crank assembly with a lightweight, forged steel crankshaft and forged aluminium pistons with optimized piston rings combines low friction with high strength. The maximum engine speed is 7200 rpm, and peak output is developed at 6750 rpm. The sump features baffle plates so that despite the larger sump, and even under high lateral acceleration forces, there is always sufficient engine oil to lubricate all the relevant components.

Why the cylinder liners are coated with NANOSLIDE

To reduce friction between the pistons and cylinders, the linings are coated using patented NANOSLIDE technology. This gives the linings a mirror-like surface for minimal friction, is twice as hard as conventional grey cast-iron liners and therefore makes them much more durable. NANOSLIDE was developed by Daimler AG and is protected by more than 90 patent families and more than 40 patents. The coating was first used for AMG’s M 156 engine, has benefitted further AMG engines for many years and can also be found in the Formula 1 engine of Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport.

How larger exhaust valves ensure faster gas cycles

Repositioning and slightly angling the injection nozzles and spark plug system in the cylinder head made it possible to enlarge the exhaust valves compared to those of the preceding M 133 engine. The larger exhaust cross-sections allow the gases to stream out of the combustion chambers with low losses and reduce the overall piston venting action.

More efficient cylinder head cooling was achieved by seating rings with a reduced installed height and a cooling borehole near the combustion chamber, in the web area between the exhaust seating rings. The cooling performance was also improved by a near-surface water jacket geometry, a faster flow rate and an optimized volumetric flow rate.

A multi-layered, state-of-the-art corrugated metal seal isolates the cylinder head from the crankcase.

Two overhead camshafts control the 16 valves via weight-optimized roller cam followers. Camshaft adjustment on the inlet and outlet side allows an excellent response and optimizes the gas cycle for each operating point. Variable CAMTRONIC valve control on the exhaust side is another feature, with two cams per valve. The cams have different geometries so that depending on the cam setting to suit the driving situation, the exhaust valves can be opened for short or long periods – for even better responsiveness at low engine speeds, comfortable and fuel-efficient driving at medium rpm and full power delivery in the upper rpm range.

How the fuel injection combines the best of both worlds

Turbocharging and direct injection with a spray-guided combustion process not only allows for a high power yield but also improves thermodynamic efficiency and therefore reduces both fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

For the first time, the new high-performance four-cylinder has two-stage fuel injection. In the first stage, the particularly fast and precisely operating piezo injectors supply fuel to the combustion chambers at a pressure of up to 200 bar. This is multiple processes at times and is controlled by the engine management system as required.

In the second stage, there is an additional intake manifold injection using solenoid valves. This is needed to achieve the engine’s high specific output. The electronically controlled fuel supply has an operating pressure of 6.7 bar.

How the sophisticated cooling system increases power

The high output requires an intelligently conceived cooling system. An additional radiator in the wheel arch supplements the large unit in the front level of the main module. A low-temperature circuit is also used for air/water intercooling. Together with the intercooler connected in series, a high- performance electric pump assists the coolant flow through the radiators. This provides for ideal cooling of the highly compressed charge air, thereby contributing towards optimum engine performance.

Cooling of the transmission oil is integrated into the engine’s coolant circuit and is assisted by a heat exchanger mounted directly on the transmission. The engine control unit is mounted on the air filter housing, where it is cooled by airflow.

Why the electric water pump brings numerous advantages

The demand-controlled, electric high-performance water pump operates independently of the engine speed. Late activation during warm-up means that the engine block warms up more rapidly, with a positive effect on friction, consumption and emissions. The pump can also be switched on or off as required when driving under less power or at low engine speeds. Furthermore, the electric water pump ensures the full engine output and optimum heat dissipation over the entire engine speed range. It also protects against thermal damage when idling in very high ambient temperatures.

Functions such as alternator management, the ECO start/stop function with fast restarting, the gliding function and a gas particulate filter are also part of the technology package.

How the new process makes work easier and improves efficiency

The new AMG 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with the in-house designation M 139 is assembled entirely by hand following the traditional AMG principle of “One Man, One Engine” – but with a completely new, digitally supported process and logistical organization.

People are the main consideration in all activities. The employees are assisted in their work by digital tools. The focus is on the use of intelligent, flexible technology. The key element in this modern production process is a combination of highly flexible line assembly and preconfigured shopping carts using driverless transport systems. The aspect of sustainability was also a fundamental part of the planning for the new M 139 production line.
The production uses renewable energy sources, and considerably reduces CO2 emissions, water consumption and waste.

How the new assembly cart makes work easier

The assembly cart on which the M 139 is put together was developed with the employees working as a team. It has its own, independent power supply and therefore needs no power cables. All the necessary operating fluids and tools are ergonomically arranged on and around the cart, making work easier, minimizing distances and improving efficiency. The integrated tablet PC  assists the employee with precise, clearly formulated working instructions. Manuals and guidelines are a thing of the past – manufacturing is now paperless.

Why the employees call it “blue sky”

The new cordless screwdrivers are immediate to hand, and no longer need to be grabbed from overhead at each station as suspended, wired tools as before. This is why the employees refer to their workplace as “blue sky”, as there are no longer any power cables hanging from the ceiling. The assembly shop makes a bright and airy impression and creates a pleasant working climate. Comprehensive digitization improves both the efficiency and flexibility of the manufacturing process: Each tool is connected to the WLAN of the engine assembly shop – enabling and torque settings for the relevant assembly stage can, therefore, be automated by indoor tracking. Furthermore, all completed tasks are digitally recorded, guaranteeing optimal quality assurance, reproducibility and transparency.

The advantages of the driverless transport systems

Each assembly technician is followed by a driverless transport system. Its shopping cart has precisely the components needed to complete the engine being assembled.

The transport systems are loaded up at the Mercedes-AMG logistical centre in Marbach, and delivered to the production line on a “just in sequence” basis. Indoor tracking via WLAN also carries out autonomous control. All components are digitally tracked.

The assembly and transport carts are designed in a black-and-white Mercedes- AMG looks, and carry slogans such as “START YOUR ENGINE” or “AMG PERFORMANCE INSIDE”. This contributes to motivation and identification with the company. In the same vein, the shop floor has hatching and white-and-red stripes reminiscent of the curbs and guide rails on racetracks.

Why the test stations are also more efficient

Assembly efficiency was further enhanced by reducing the number of test stations. This is made possible by grouping several individual stations into three central stations: Drag torque test, leakage test for oil/coolant and fuel systems as well as for complete engine water jacket. The result is a considerable time saving and greater efficiency. Here too, all parameters and measured values are digitally recorded and stored so that the assembly of each individual engine can be tracked.

The assembly philosophy of “One Man, One Engine” is a hallmark of the Mercedes-AMG brand. Another characteristic feature of the M 139 is, therefore, the AMG engine plate carrying the signature of the assembly technician. All assembly technicians for the new four-cylinder engine were given extensive further training for the M 139.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/07/amg-worlds-most-powerful-four-cylinder-engine-in-made-in-affalterbach/

Interesting write-up, looking forward for more...

Instagram has launched a new feature designed to help users continue to enjoy the content they love on the network, while reducing the amount of data they use on their phone. With this opt-in mode [for Android only], users can view their favourite contents on Instagram with reduced image loading time, by reducing the amount of data that Instagram consumes on their mobile phone.

How It Works: They (users) will now have three customisable options for viewing high-resolution media and pre-loading videos. Users should go o to ‘Settings’, then ‘Account’, then ‘Cellular Data Use’, – and then they will be able to turn this setting on, which will prevent the loading of videos and high-resolution media in advance. Once this setting is enabled, they’ll be able to choose among three options for how Instagram will show each user a high-resolution media including ‘Never’, ‘Wi-Fi Only’, and ‘Cellular + Wi-Fi’.

“We know that people have different data usage patterns and plans, so our hope with this new feature is to give more people the ability to connect with the people and interests they love on Instagram and provide an uninterrupted Instagram browsing experience to people in slow internet areas while using fewer data. This feature will be globally available on Android in the coming days,” according to the people with knowledge of the matter.


SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/07/instagram-introduces-data-saving-feature-for-the-android-users/

Oando PLC hereby notifies the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), its valued shareholders, key stakeholders and the public of the resignations of its Non-Executive Directors, Chief Sena Anthony and Mr. Oghogho Akpata from the Board of Directors of Oando PLC, with effect from June 3, 2019.

Chief Sena Anthony and Mr. Oghogho Akpata were active members of the Board and its subcommittees.

The Board and Management of Oando PLC appreciate their valuable contributions to the growth of the Company.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/07/oando-plc-announces-the-resignation-of-two-non-executive-directors/

Wema Bank, Nigeria’s medieval surviving indigenous bank, explicates constant developments in profitability as the commercial bank leverages heritage and technologies to deepen customer base and reduce risks Wema Bank recorded strong growths in the top-line and bottom-line in the first quarter, maintaining a trend that has seen the commercial bank within the league of fastest-growing banks.

The interim report and accounts for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019, showed that the core income base, interest income, rose by 27.2 per cent while profit grew by 50 per cent. This year’s first quarter results built on the positive performance in 2018 when full-year profit after taxes jumped by 47.3 per cent. With the bottom-line steadily growing, the confident board and management of the bank distributed N1.157 billion to shareholders as cash dividends for the 2018 business year, its first dividend payout in 14 years.

Fundamentals
The three-month report ended on March 31, 2019, indicating a strong start for the bank. Interest income rose by 27.2 per cent from N12.64 billion in first quarter 2018 to N16.07 billion in first quarter 2019. Profit before tax jumped by 50.6 per cent from N883.95 million to N1.33 billion. After taxes, net profit rose from N764.7 million in first quarter 2018 to N1.14 billion in the first quarter of 2019. Earnings per share thus increased from 6.8 kobos to 12.4 kobos.
The first quarter performance reinforced board and management’s commitment to shareholders that the bank is on a steady growth curve that will deliver increasing returns to investors.

At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos, visibly elated shareholders unanimously approved the distribution of N1.157 billion as cash dividend for the 2018 business year, representing a dividend per share of 3 kobos. The dividend payout represents about 35 per cent of the net profit for the year.

The audited report and accounts for the year ended December 31, 2018, showed that Wema Bank’s gross earnings rose by 9.56 per cent to N71.5 billion in 2018 as against N65.3 billion in 2017. The report showed appreciable improvements across the income lines of the bank.

Interest income had risen by 8.6 per cent from N53.1 billion to N57.6 billion. Net fee and commission increased to N6.5 billion from N5.6 billion. Net trading income also rose to N5.5 billion from N4.8 billion while the other income appreciated to N1.8 billion from N1.6 billion. Profit before tax rose by 59.4 per cent to N4.8 billion in 2018 as against N3.01 billion in 2017.

Profit after tax rose by 47.5 per cent to N3.33 billion as against N2.26 billion. Earnings per share consequently rose by 48.3 per cent to 8.60 kobos in 2018 compared with 5.80 kobos in 2017.

The balance sheet of the bank also improved with more customers opting for the bank. Total assets rose to N488.8 billion in 2018 as against N387.6 billion in 2017. Total liabilities had risen from N337.9 billion to N437.9 billion. Customers deposit rose from N254.46 billion to N369.2 billion. Shareholders’ fund improved from N49.62 billion in 2017 to N50.89 billion in 2018.

Restructured for growth
Wema Bank had in 2009 launched a comprehensive restructuring exercise that touched all key aspects of the bank including corporate brand and ambience, capital base, capital restructuring, risk management, stakeholders’ engagement, products and services, banking application and technologies, human resources and strategic goal direction of the bank. With stronger capital base and additional investments in technologies, the bank in 2017 launched Nigeria’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, a game-changing product that has positioned Wema Bank in the competitive end of conventional banking in Nigeria. ALAT has since continued to record significant milestones, especially around customer acquisition.

In 2018, Wema Bank won the World Finance Awards for Most Innovative Bank Africa and the Asian Banker Awards for the Best Digital Bank Africa. It had in 2017 won the BusinessDay Banking Award for The Digital Banking Platform of the Year, Behind Awards for Most Youth-Friendly Brand, Infosys’ Finacle Client Innovation Award, World Finance Award for Best Mobile Banking App.

The bank has also continued to widen its operational and technology base in line with its four focus areas of innovation and technology, relationships, risk management and national footprint.

Established in 1945, Wema Bank is running on both its heritage and its cutting-edge technologies, two major planks that reassure on the future prospects of the bank.

Wema Bank Plc Managing Director, Mr Ademola Adebise said the bank plans to make ALAT the premier digital platform in Nigeria. “For us, we want to be an idea bank.

We want to be known for innovation and we want to be very agile. For you to make a mark in this space, you need to be very agile and speak to market with products that appeal to customers. It is not about developing products, it is about appealing to the needs of the customers,” Adebise stated.

Wema Bank Chairman Mr Babatunde Kasali said the banks have been delivering on its strategic goals by taking bold steps that not only reinforces confidence in its immediate future but long-term growth prospects.

According to him, the results of the bank in the recent period have justified the success of the bank’s turnaround programme as the bank continues to record significant achievements in various areas.

He noted that the bank has been able to maintain its non-performing loan ratio below the regulatory limit of five per cent while simultaneously growing its business.

He said the bank’s aim is to consistently scale up and improve market share through various initiatives pointing out that the success of these many initiatives has not only positioned the bank as a choice of customers but also investors, as shown in the growing customer base and the success of its capital raising efforts. Wema Bank raised tier 11 capital in 2018 and plans to raise additional capital in the months ahead.

Looking forward
“As we go into 2019, we will deepen our focus on the commercial and corporate business while we introduce a renewed focus on our retail business. The above will help to continue to reinforce our commitment towards balance sheet optimisation, efficient processes and operations as well as value creation for our esteemed customers and shareholders,” Kasali said.

He assured that despite the envisaged challenges in the banking sector and the general macroeconomic environment, the bank will look beyond the clouds to find opportunities for accelerated growth, especially around the sectors and industries which are enjoying growth, including agriculture and manufacturing.

According to him, significant steps had been taken internally in 2018 to ensure that the bank delivers value to shareholders in 2019.

“Another of our core commitment in 2019 is to continue to use our technological edge to drive disruption to deliver on our goals for the year. Wema Bank is well positioned to ride the growth curve and deliver even better performance in 2019,” Kasali assured.

Adebise said the bank will continue to explore opportunities to bring banking services to the nook and crannies of the country through branch network expansion and digital banking.

Speaking against the background of the opening of the bank’s branch in Ilorin, Adebise said the bank planned to launch new branches in Gombe, Onitsha and other leading cities in Nigeria.

“We are excited to open a new branch which will help us as a bank meet the growing demand for financial products and services by the residents of Ilorin. For us, it is not about just opening branches, we are targeting communities where there are opportunities,” Adebise said. With its new national status, the bank has reopened branches in the North and South East, including in Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Minna, Lokoja and Aba.

Shareholders appeared to agree with the board and management of the bank on the future outlook. Wema Bank’s share price is one of the three stocks with positive year-to-date returns in the banking sector. With the benchmark index for the equities market indicating a five-month average year-to-date return of -1.15 per cent, Wema Bank’s modest positive return of 1.59 per cent showed resilience and resistance to the selloffs that characterised the equities market during the period.

The contrarian value of Wema Bank is further highlighted by the steep declines suffered by other stocks. The NSE Banking Index, which tracks banking stocks, the closed weekend with a five-month average return of -9.37 per cent while the NSE Main Board Index, where Wema Bank and most other quoted companies, about 80 per cent of quoted companies, are listed closed the weekend with an average year-to-date return of -11.96 per cent.

Most analysts said they expected Wema Bank to increase dividend payouts as profit increases, a major appeal to the vast majority of retail investors that have for decades trusted the bank as a store of value. With improving operations, stronger fundamentals and resilience share price, Wema Bank appears to be winning on all fronts.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/05/wema-bank-improving-constant-development-in-profitability/

Bold, sporty, visually striking, the new BMW X1 (fuel consumption combined: 6.8 – 4.1 l/100 km [41.5 – 68.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 155 – 107 g/km*) adds another chapter to the Sports Activity Vehicle’s ongoing success story.

The new model update makes the BMW X1 an even more desirable proposition. Key to its increased appeal is pronounced design revisions, a high level of versatility and a host of cutting-edge equipment features. Beneath the surface, meanwhile, powerful yet extremely efficient three- and four-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo engines and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive are indicative of the driving pleasure on tap in the latest X1.

The design: eye-catching and sporty.

The current BMW X1 wasted no time post-launch in winning over customers with its distinctive design. And the model update ensures the compact Sports Activity Vehicle now cuts an even more handsome figure.

The X1’s new look is immediately clear, with the most prominent revisions found at the front and rear. Each of the model variants – from the base BMW X1 to xLine, Sport Line and M Sport – has been given a standalone visual presence tailored precisely to its character profile. The BMW X1 M Sport is a particularly athletic-looking option, a courtesy not least of lowered M Sport suspension, BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line trim with extended features (est. available from 11/19) and the M Aerodynamics package.

The new BMW X1 exudes a more dominant, imposing aura at the front end, in particular. Here, a larger BMW grille – the kidneys now merging in the centre – links up with new Adaptive LED headlights including sharper light iconography and a bumper with integrated LED fog lamps and larger air intakes. The rear end of the X1 also houses new stylistic features. For example, the new inlay in the body-colour rear apron adopts the car’s main body colour. This new feature is included as standard and lends the rear end of the BMW X1 an even stronger sense of inherent class and coherence.

Another highlight can be found on the drivers-side exterior mirror, which projects a two-tone LED “X1” image when the car is unlocked. This is far from just a visual trick; it also makes getting into and out of the BMW X1 that much easier.

The attractive new design of the X1 is further enhanced by three new exterior colours – Jucaro Beige metallic, Misano Blue metallic (exclusively for the M Sport model) and the ultra-exclusive BMW Individual Storm Bay metallic – and four new wheel designs.

The driving experience: powerful and efficient.

The model update is also an exercise in future-proofing for the BMW X1. At launch in summer 2019, all the petrol and diesel engines will meet the EU6d‑temp exhaust emissions standard; the BMW X1 sDrive16d and BMW X1 xDrive25d already fulfil the EU6d norm. The power generated by the efficient yet sporty three- and four-cylinder engines are translated – via BMW xDrive intelligent all‑wheel drive or a cutting-edge front-wheel-drive configuration, depending on the model variant – into dynamic performance on the road and supreme driving pleasure over rough terrain.

The BMW X1 sDrive16d, available with either a manual six-speed gearbox or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, is particularly efficient. In manual guise, the combined fuel consumption of the 85 kW (116 hp) model is just 4.4 – 4.1 l/100 km (64.2 – 68.9 mpg imp), while CO2 emissions stand at a combined 116 – 107 g/km*. If the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is specified, the figures are 4.4 – 4.2 l/100 km (64.2 – 67.3 mpg imp) and 116 – 109 g CO2/km.*

Majoring on sports performance is the BMW X1 xDrive25d (fuel consumption combined: 5.2 – 4.9 l/100 km [54.3 – 57.7 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 136 – 128 g/km*), which develops maximum output of 170 kW (231 hp) and torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). Whatever the situation, the xDrive25d radiates BMW’s signature driving a pleasure. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a rapid 6.6 seconds.

The BMW X1 xDrive25i is one of the top-performing models in the range in terms of dynamics. Its 170 kW (231 hp) engine teams up with the precise eight-speed Steptronic transmission to propel the car down the road with unbridled vigour. It epitomises the multi-faceted sporting ability which distinguishes all BMW X1 models. The xDrive25i races from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.5 seconds. Combined fuel consumption comes in at 6.8 – 6.3 l/100 km (41.5 – 44.8 mpg imp), combined CO2 emissions are 155 – 144 g/km*.

The updated BMW X1 line-up now comprises 16 engine/transmission combinations, ensuring all customers have a wealth of possibilities from which to choose.

The suspension technology of the BMW X1 provides all models with the fleet-footed agility familiar to customers, delivers precisely controllable handling and imbues the car with sublime overall dynamics. The xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system available for many of the models in the range splits drive torque between the front and rear axles to suit the situation at hand. The result is a combination of supreme traction, excellent directional stability and dynamic élan in all weather and road conditions.

Under starter’s orders: the BMW X1 xDrive25e.

The impressive efficiency of the petrol and diesel versions offered for the new BMW X1 merely whets the appetite for the arrival of the first BMW X1 with the plug-in hybrid drive system. The debut of the new model next year will see BMW stepping up the electrification of its vehicle line-up once again. The BMW X1 xDrive25e (petrol consumption combined: from 2.0 l/100 km [141.2 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: from 43 g/km**) – due to enter production in March 2020 – is fitted with the latest, fourth-generation BMW battery technology, which gives the battery a gross energy content of 9.7 kWh. As a result, the plug-in-hybrid BMW X1 can cover more than 50 km** (31 miles) on electric power alone.

Equipment: versatility and connectivity.

So the driving qualities of the BMW X1 on the road are hugely persuasive – and the same goes for the versatility of its interior. Advanced technology joins forces with generous levels of space and countless smart and functionally adept solutions.

The high-quality standards of the BMW X1 are evident, for example, in the new contrast stitching on the instrument panel, which is black on its upper section and adopts the colour of the interior upholstery lower down. The contrast stitching is available for the xLine, Sport Line and M Sport models. In these variants of the X1, the floor mats also gain coloured edging and contrast stitching for the edging. The BMW X1 can also be ordered with a choice of three new upholstery variants.

One of the highlights of the BMW X1 interior is the Control Display. A centrally mounted 6.5-inch screen is included as standard. If a navigation system is specified, either an 8.8-inch or the new 10.25-inch Touch Control Display – which can be operated using the BMW iDrive Controller, voice control or touchscreen technology – comes as part of the package.

The Control Display represents the ideal platform on which to explore the BMW X1’s richly varied infotainment offering and access the digital services from BMW ConnectedDrive. The latest versions of these are available as an option in the BMW X1.

The remarkable versatility of the BMW X1 is not confined to all things digital; its interior can also be adapted to individual requirements. For example, the rear seats can be folded down in three sections (40:20:40) and, as an option, slide forward by up to 13 cm. Options such as automatic tailgate operation and Comfort Access – which team up to enable hands-free tailgate opening and closing – raise convenience levels another notch.


SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/05/2020-bmw-x1-gets-new-look-new-colors-new-transmission-photos/

In an effort to consolidate on its impressive financial performances and market leadership across the financial services spectrum, Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, a member of Standard Bank Group, has announced a number of Board appointments in some of its subsidiaries.

The appointments, which are expected to bring fresh thinking and ideas as well as energy into the Group’s operations, cut across the Stanbic IBTC Group, including Stanbic IBTC Bank, Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, and Stanbic IBTC Insurance Brokers Limited.

Mr Adekunle Adedeji was promoted to the position of executive director Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, effective 22 February 2019. Mr Adedeji, who has over 20 years’
experience is also Stanbic IBTC Group’s Chief Financial Officer. He had a similar experience with Stanbic Ghana. Adedeji has worked with Ernst & Young and belongs to several professional institutes, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. Mr Barend Johannes Kruger was appointed as a non-executive director for Stanbic IBTC Bank effective from 20 May 2019 following the receipt of all required regulatory approvals. Mr Kruger had previously been appointed to the board of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC in January 2019. Thus, he will now serve on both the HoldCo and the bank boards as a nonexecutive director. Mr Kruger is a chartered accountant with over 30 years’ experience in the financial services industry.

Also appointed to the board of the Bank, following regulatory approvals, was Ms Rabi Isma as an Independent non-executive director, effective from 09 May 2019. Ms Isma has extensive experience in the telecoms industry with 9Mobile and Etisalat Sri Lanka. She has previously worked for the British Council in Nigeria and served as special adviser to the governor of Kano State. Ms. Isma has multiple certifications and has attended several executive programmes, both at the Harvard and Michigan Ross Business Schools, United States of America.

Mrs Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju has been appointed Executive Director, Operations, for the Bank. Prior to this, Mrs. Dayo-Olagunju was Deputy Head of Operations and also previously served as Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited, the Group’s Asset Management subsidiary. She has over 20 years of hands-on experience in the financial services industry having worked in different capacities across the subsidiaries of Stanbic IBTC Group.

Similarly, Mr. Dele Sotubo replaced Mrs. Dayo-Olagunju as Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited effective 12 February 2019; Mr. Olumide Oyetan was appointed Executive Director, Investments, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited with effect from 1 March 2019; Mr. Charles Emelue was appointed Executive Director, Operations, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited on 1 April 2019 while Ms. Sakeenat Bakare was appointed Executive Director for Stanbic IBTC Insurance Brokers Limited, effective 26 February 2019.

These individuals are highly qualified and experienced to deliver results in their new roles.

Commenting on the appointments, Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, Mr Yinka Sanni, said: “We are pleased to entrust these individuals with new responsibilities and look forward to benefiting immensely from their wealth of knowledge and experience as we enter the next phase of our growth. In filling these roles, we identified our priorities and these individuals fit into our growth objectives.”


SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/03/stanbic-ibtc-appoints-new-board-members-elevates-others/

The United States at the weekend released new guidelines for visa aspirants, which mandated them to present details of their social media handles as part of the screening exercise.

The embassy stated in a statement that it was doing all within its power to improve national security.

The guidelines came less than a month after the US Embassy in Nigeria declared that all visa applicants, including frequent travellers, who were using the drop box method would have to appear for interviews each time they apply for a visa.

The applicants, according to the United States State Department, must also tender five years’ worth of email addresses and phone numbers.

The standards, BBC reported, are part of procedures to assure national security in the US.

“National security is our top superiority when adjudicating visa applications, and every prospective traveller and immigrant to the United States undergoes extensive security screening,” the department said via an initial proposal in 2018.

“We are constantly working to find mechanisms to improve our screening processes to protect US citizens while supporting legitimate travel to the United States,” the department had said in the 2018  initial proposal.

It added that certain diplomatic and official visa applicants would be exempted from the stringent new measures.

However, people travelling to the US to work or to study will have to submit the information before being considered.

Last month, the US Embassy had announced that all applicants, including frequent travellers who were using the drop box method, would now have to appear for interviews each time they applied.

It, however, said diplomatic and government officials could continue to enjoy the status quo.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/03/us-requested-for-social-media-handles-of-visa-applicants/

Sports covers a class of physical activities and games. They might be prepared or unplanned. There is a wide array of sports globally such as athletics, baseball, football, and skating. Punters can learn more here about different sports markets which bookies offer. Various organizations publish a sport events calendar each year. Here are 10 top sports highlights for 2019.

1.      Women’s World Cup

The FIFA World Cup tournament will take place from June 7 to July 7 in France. It will feature national teams from the Federation International de Football Association.

2.      African Cup of Nations

African Cup of Nations (AFCON) is a biannual tournament that is held in different countries. Egypt will host the 2019 AFCON championship from June 15 to July 13. The Confederation of African Football organized its qualification matches.

3.      US Golf Open

The U.S. Open is also known as the United States Open Championship. This year’s tournament will be held at Pebble Beach, California from June 13 to June 16. You can follow its proceedings on Facebook or Twitter.

4.      European Games

European athletes usually compete in the European Games. The European Olympics Committees govern the international sports event. They launched them in December 2012.

5.      Stanley Cup Finals

The 2019 ice hockey Stanley Cup championship will be held in America and Canada. The ordinary hockey season ended on April 2019. It featured 31 teams.

6.      NBA Finals

NBA Playoffs began on April 13 while NBA Finals will end in June. The finals will be played in Canada and the U.S. The NBA All-Star Game was played on February 2019.

7.      Wimbledon Tennis

Wimbledon is among the oldest tennis championships worldwide. It is normally held in Wimbledon, London on grass courts. This year’s tournament will take place from July 1 to July 14.

8.      Island Games

The British Overseas land of Gibraltar will host the 2019 NatWest Island Games from July 6 to July 12. Gibraltar hosted the Games for the first time in 1995. It features several islands.

9.      Tour de France

The popular Tour de France bicycle race is normally held each year. This year’s edition will take place in Belgium and France. It lasts for 23 days.

10. Netball World Cup

The International Netball Federation coordinates the INF Netball World Cup. It is a quadrennial netball championship. The 2019 Netball World Cup will be held in Liverpool, England.

Each sport has specific customs or rules which govern players. They help in adjudicating winners and promoting fair competition. In some sports, winners are determined by the number of goals or points they have attained. Judges may also consider the artistic impression of a player to rank them.


SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/03/top-10-sport-highlights-of-the-year/

Pan African financial institution, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and the Agence Française de Development (AFD), France’s public and solidarity-based development bank Wednesday signed the final documents facilitating the financing of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups across the 20 countries where UBA operates in Africa.

Early last year, UBA Plc and Agence Française de Development, entered into a framework agreement to utilise the EURIZ and ARIZ schemes offered by AFD to facilitate the financing of the Small and Medium-scale Enterprises and start-ups across the 20 countries where UBA operates in Africa.

The partnership which was signed by both organisations is an off-shoot of the strategic relationship both institutions have entered into last year and is for the execution of the facility agreement for the EURIZ Guarantee – a scheme launched in May 2019 to facilitate MSMEs’ access to credit which will enable them play their essential role in economic growth and job creation in the continent.

UBA is the first beneficiary of AFD Group’s (AFD and its private sector financing arm Proparco) new EURIZ guarantee mechanism in Africa. It is issued with the support of and funding from the European Union in the context of the EU external investment plan.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, which was held in UBA Head Office in Lagos, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, said the partnership expected to enhance UBA’s capacity to finance SMEs, whilst ensuring AFD uses the financial structure availed by UBA to reach out to many SMEs across Africa.

He said, “We are here to conclude on a journey that we started a couple of years ago that will lead to the development of the market, particularly Small and Medium Scale businesses. These are businesses that will not ordinarily be bankable, but with this partnership between UBA and AFD, we can now make it happen.

“As you know, UBA is a financial institution that is well known across Africa and we believe that a major area of development for any economy, is the empowerment of SMEs. An economy such as ours can only be said to succeed when these businesses succeed. It is our belief that this is just the take-off point and as the business succeeds, there will be need to review this portfolio,” the GMD continued.

The Regional Director, Proparco, Mr Thomas HUSSON, who spoke at the event, noted that the purpose of EURIZ scheme is to encourage investment in EU partner countries, to strengthen partnerships and contribute to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, helping to address some root causes of migration.

According to him, the new risk-sharing mechanism EURIZ will help UBA finance entrepreneurs incubated by the Tony Elumelu Foundation, in view to support their developmental impact.

“We are pleased to sign this facility, and this is even better because we share UBA’s commitment to empowering SMES in Africa. Over the years, we at AFD have been willing to work with this bank owing to the role and importance that this financial institution plays in Nigeria and in Africa. And so, we look forward to strengthening the partnership with UBA Group which is the Nigerian head-quartered bank that has the most success in Africa and beyond,” Husson said.

He noted that “EURIZ will cover up to 70% of local bank loans granted to MSMEs operating in sectors with a high social impact. “The scheme also includes a technical cooperation component that will support these partner institutions to best serve these companies,” he added.

United Bank for Africa Plc is a leading pan-African financial services group, operating in 20 African countries, as well as the United Kingdom, the United States of America and with presence in France.

UBA was incorporated in Nigeria as a limited liability company after taking over the assets of the British and French Bank Limited who had been operating in Nigeria since 1949. The United Bank for Africa merged with Standard Trust Bank in 2005 and from a single country operation founded in 1949 in Nigeria – Africa’s largest economy – UBA has become one of the leading providers of banking and other financial services on the African continent. The Bank which was awarded the Best Digital Bank in Africa by the Euromoney awards in 2018, provides services to over 17 million customers globally, through one of the most diverse service channels in sub-Saharan Africa, with over 1,000 branches and customer touch points and robust online and mobile banking platforms.

The shares of UBA are publicly traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange and the Bank has a well-diversified shareholder base, which includes foreign and local institutional investors, as well as individual shareholders.

Picture 1 : (From the left) Babatunde Ajayi – Technical Adviser Consumer & Retail Banking, Olamipe Seriki – Head Bilateral funding & Business Partner, Jean-Michel Koffi – Investment Officer Proparco, Kennedy Uzoka – Group Managing Director, Thomas Husson – Regional Director Proparco, Emmanuel Onokpasa – Group Treasurer, Kubi Momoh – Chief Risk Officer, Olusola Babatunde – Head Global Financial Institutions

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/01/uba-afd-sign-partnership-to-support-smes-in-africa/

This was revealed by the Railway Sector Report released by the National Bureauof Statistics (NBS). The Report shows that the amount was generated from two main revenue sources.

A further look shows that the revenue generated from passengers in Q1 2019 was put at N520,794,143 as against N507,495,503 in Q4 2018.

Similarly, revenue generated from goods/cargo in Q1 2019 was put at N102,585,926 as against N84,408,861 in Q4 2018.

According to the report, a total of 723,995 passengers travelled via the rail system in Q1 2019 as against 748,345 passengers recorded in Q1 2018 and 746,739 in Q4 2018 representing -3.25% decline YoY and -3.05% decline QoQ respectively.

The NBS report also shows that a total of 54,099 tons of volume of goods/cargo travelled via the rail system in Q1 2019 as against 79,750 recorded in Q1 2018 and 68,716 in Q4 2018 representing -32.16% decline YoY and -21.27%  decline QoQ respectively.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/01/nigeria-earned-n-623-4-million-from-rail-in-3-months/

The Surveillance Group of Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) and the Monitoring and Enforcement Team, checking the wholesomeness of products in some supermarkets along Ikorodu recently discovered some expired products.

In a routine monitoring exercise by the Agency, expired products were removed from the shelves of some supermarket stores along Ikorodu.

According to the Agency, the monitoring team discovered some expired products on the shelves of those supermarkets during the exercise and immediately removed them for destruction to prevent eventual sales to unsuspecting consumers.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/06/01/lascopa-goes-tough-on-expired-products-as-officials-storm-supermarkets-photos/

Heritage Bank Plc, Nigeria’s most innovative banking service provider has doled out $40, 000 grants to tech Start-ups winners of the maiden edition of HB Innovative Lab. This is in line with the bank’s efforts to support Nigeria’s aspiration and roadmap to becoming a leading Information Communication Technology (ICT) Hub in Africa.

The maiden edition of ) tagged, ‘Demo Day,’ is a 12-week programme, expected to provide technology start-ups seeking additional investments to progress and accelerate market introduction/adoption of their solutions with co-working and internet resources, guidance and mentorship with finch start-ups founder and grants for seed funding.

However, the bank’s commitment is to create enabling environment, resources and support required to innovate and accelerate impactful solutions with the potential to radically improve financial Inclusion/Intermediation, health, automobile, agriculture, and other related problems affecting critical sectors of the economy.

At the grand finale of the programme, of the seven groups, Trep Labs-Real Drip emerged the winner with the most compelling solution won the N10million, whilst Ladipomarket.com.ng won the N5million prize, as the 1st runner-up, which is equivalent of $40, 000.

Speaking at the event, the MD/CEO of the bank, Ifie Sekibo, said the bank knew it was in the best interest of the country to pay attention to the development of the technology and industrial sector. According to him, “the future of the country lies in the hands of its youth. Our youths are talented, and Heritage Bank is committed to harnessing this talent to grow the economy.”

He noted that although in Nigeria, technology startups still account for a relatively small share of all businesses, they have an outsized impact on economic growth, because they provide better-paying, longer-lasting jobs than other start-ups, and they contribute more to innovation, productivity, and competitiveness.

Sekibo explained further, “Newly starting up a business is part of the most difficult stage of the business, you would need to source for capital and manpower. Considering the fact that you are a new business those items are not so easy and cheap for you to acquire.

“However, the presentations we have seen today shows how gifted Nigeria is with human resources, our youths have demonstrated that the country still has a beautiful future.

“I am impressed with the start-ups, after six weeks of drilling and grooming they have been able to develop up to this point; everyone is a winner tonight as far as I am concerned.

“Based on the success of this maiden edition we are going to continue this initiative, we would go back to our laboratory and create something (bigger grants) for the upcoming editions.”

When asked what he felt about Artificial Intelligence being used in banks, he explained: “Technology has been playing a key role towards enhancing the banking sector. Thus, we saw the need to create an Artificial Intelligence product called Octopus, which has been piloted and its second edition is almost ready for launching.

On his part, the Co-founder TREP Labs, Alayande Abiola, said, “Emerging as first place and winning the ten million naira grants will help the growth of our clinical solutions.

“Now we would be able to complete our clinical trials, optimise the development of our products and also provide enough healthcare solutions that are battling with the country.”

Earlier, the bank’s Divisional Head Innovation and Partnership, Ikenna Imo, explained: “Twelve weeks ago we welcomed seven talented and diverse start-ups, at that time our intentions were clear that we were ready to create distinctive propositions that solve issues facing the country currently.

“Today, I have no doubts that the start-ups we have assembled after a selective and competitive process have what it takes to accomplish that.

Over the last 12 weeks, the HB Lab has hosted a number of business leaders and founders within in the tech ecosystem who shared the experiences and evolutions of their respective businesses with the aim to inspire and impart business knowledge in the young minds looking to start out their own tech-enabled businesses.

Some of the mentors at the program include; Gbenga Awe (Heritage Bank Plc), Tosin Eniolorunda (TeamApt), Abolore Salami (Riby), Deji Oduntan (Gokada), Muyiwa Faulkner (Mines.io), Shile Owoka (Smile Identity), Moses Sule (Oradian) to mention a few.

Heritage Bank Plc remains committed to championing sustainable value creation, leveraging technology to ensure a culture of innovation and mutually beneficial partnerships.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/05/31/heritage-bank-doles-out-40000-grants-to-hb-lab-tech-start-ups-winners/

The Right Fit and the wrong fit at the workplace.

I hired help over a month ago. She made me understand more than ever the meaning of having the right fit for a role at the workplace. Khadijat (not her real name), adds value to her work. The picks up socks from shoes without you telling her after she does the dishes, she picks up any plates that go into the sink afterwards without grumbling. you don’t have to keep complaining to her about a task because she executes the tasks, well over and beyond.

Khadijat is the only Help that I have had who is never tired of doing her job. On the contrary,

I get tired of giving her work to do.

It is obvious that she loves her work and has a sole objective to make our house better than she met it.

The same applies to the workplace.

The right fit…

Is interested in learning the ropes and becoming better on the role while adding value to the work.

Loves what he or she does at the workplace, and is not forced to execute tasks at the workplace

The wrong fit…

Don’t get me wrong, as a Nigerian that I am, I have had to do jobs that I would naturally not turn to. But I prepared well for the interviews, did my research, said the right words and got the job.

Firstly, because I needed a job, and more importantly, Money! Oh Yes! I needed the money.

The job was stressful for me, but I kept on adding effort.

Motion and progress are however two different things.

The pressure hits you like a brick on the face. That kind of pressure you feel when you are studying Chemical engineering in school, yet you are busy broadcasting the news on the Channels television of your mind every time the Lecturer lectures Technical Drawing 206 in class.

You have an admission letter for chemical engineering yet have a Heart letter for Mass Communication.

This is not to say that there is no skill or knowledge to be acquired when an employee is a wrong fit for the role though. Lack of fulfilment and demotivation are often the bane of this experience.

Does anyone have a story or two to share on their wrong fit experience?

How do you handle it when you are a wrong fit for the role? Do you even know what being a wrong fit is or it’s all about the money baby?!

Let’s discuss this, please drop your comments below…

Written by: Omolara Omosehin Adeogo

Lara holds a 9 year-plus work experience that spans across the Transit, Consulting, Telecoms and Market-Research sectors. She is a graduate of Chemistry Science from Lagos State University Nigeria and an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management. Lara is a 2 time graduate of Immerse Academy and a WIMBIZ Mentee. She currently works as a project manager in a leading market research organization – Kantar TNS Nigeria. A lover of self-development and life-long learning. Lara loves to make meaningful contributions everywhere she goes. She is married with 2 boys.


SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/05/30/are-you-the-right-fit-for-your-role/

Not less than 85 youths in Ondo Central Senatorial District have benefitted from the Federal Government’s empowerment programme, as some of them received tricycles and motorcycles from the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.

Speaking at the occasion of the commissioning and distribution of the empowerment items in Akure, the Ondo State Capital on Monday, the Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, Prof. Claudius Omoleye Daramola, said: “The Niger Delta region is faced with endemic poverty and we discovered that one of the ways of eradicating it is to empower the youths through the transport business, using tricycles and motorcycles.”

55 of the youths received motorcycles, while 30 received tricycles for commercial transportation.

Prof. Daramola added that apart from giving the youths those items, “We also gave them a form of training on business management and simple repairs of the items.”

The Minister, who was represented by the Deputy Director, Economic Empowerment Department in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Philip Ndiomu, reiterated that the initiative was one of the laudable programmes of the present administration aimed at empowering the youths, generating employment, as well as improving their economic wellbeing.

“As we match to another dispensation in governance be assured that more of the empowerment programmes will be carried out in the Niger Delta region until poverty is reduced to the barest minimum,” Prof. Daramola stressed.

In his remarks, Senator Donald Omotayo Alasoadura, representing Ondo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, commended the Federal Government for finding the people of his constituency worthy of such laudable programme.

Senator Alasoadura charged the beneficiaries to make the best use of the items received. “Don’t sell them, but use and make money from them,” he charged.
Speaking on behalf of other beneficiaries, Comrade Akindehin Emmanuel lauded the initiative of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and the support of Senator Alasoadura in making the empowerment programme possible, promised to utilise what he received for the benefit of his family and his community.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/05/29/fg-empowers-85-ondo-youths-with-tricycles-motorcycles/

According to the just-released report Global Cannabis Report: 2019 Industry Outlook, Nigeria leads Africa in marijuana consumption followed by Ethiopia. The report by New Frontier Data, an analytics company specializing in the cannabis industry, places Nigeria in first place in the continent with 20.8 million Cannabis users.

Top 10 List Of Highest Marijuana Consuming Countries In Africa

The report ranked Nigeria number one Africa in marijuana consumption with 20.8 million users followed by Ethiopia’s 7.1 million.

The report further ranks Egypt and DR Congo third and fourth with 5.9 million and 5 million users respectively.

In seventh place is Sudan with 2.7 million weed smokers followed by Madagascar’s 2.1 million users. Ghana has 2 million marijuana users.

Countries with the least number of marijuana users are Zimbabwe, Malawi, Niger and Zambia with 1.1 million, 1.2 million, 1.2 million and 1.4 million users respectively.

New Frontier Data notes that “the purpose of the report is to support operators and investors in guiding business strategy by providing a macro view of cannabis use and legalization trends globally.”

Egypt and DR Congo rank third and fourth with 5.9 million and 5 million users respectively.

Sudan, which is ranked seventh has 2.7 million marijuana users followed by Madagascar’s 2.1 million users. Ghana has 2 million marijuana users.

Least Marijuana Consumers In Africa

The African countries with the least number of marijuana users include Zimbabwe, Malawi, Niger and Zambia with 1.1 million, 1.2 million, 1.2 million and 1.4 million users respectively.

SOURCE: https://brandspurng.com/2019/05/30/nigeria-tops-list-of-highest-marijuana-consuming-countries-in-africa/