admin

Total Post: 5154

A Reflection on Our Financial Reality: How Far Have We Come?

A Reflection on Our Financial Reality: How Far Have We Come?

By Tambuwa Matt Class

Let’s take a moment to examine the harsh financial realities of our lives as Nigerians, realities we often endure without fully understanding the magnitude of their impact.

In 2014, the cost of a 2008 Toyota Corolla Sport was 1.2 million naira. Today, in 2025, that same car—now 17 years old—is being sold for 9 million naira. On the surface, this might seem like a simple case of inflation, but the underlying truth is far more distressing. The real story here is the dramatic devaluation of our currency, the naira, over the past decade.

In 2014, 1.2 million naira was equivalent to $6,000. Fast forward to today, and that same $6,000 is worth about 10 million naira, yet 9 million naira is barely enough to exchange for $5,500. This represents a shocking 700% depreciation in the naira’s value over ten years.

The Price of Living
The implications of this are staggering. In 2025, purchasing that same 2008 car requires seven times the amount of naira it did in 2014. But it’s not just about numbers; it’s about how much harder it has become for the average Nigerian to afford basic needs and luxuries alike.

Consider this: in 2014, a fresh intern medical doctor, right out of medical school, could earn 1.2 million naira in seven to eight months. That was enough to purchase the car outright. At the time, 1.2 million naira had real value—it represented tangible purchasing power.

But today, in 2025, no intern medical doctor can earn 10 million naira—the equivalent of $6,000—in the same timeframe. In fact, many professionals across industries struggle to save even a fraction of that amount within a year. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a reflection of how much our earning power and economic stability have eroded.

The Bigger Picture
This car example is just one piece of a larger puzzle. The cost of everyday goods and services—food, housing, transportation, healthcare—has risen exponentially, while wages have largely stagnated or failed to keep pace. As a result, the quality of life for most Nigerians has significantly declined.

Ten years ago, owning a home, sending children to good schools, or starting a small business felt achievable for the average Nigerian. Today, these goals seem more like distant dreams, reserved only for a privileged few. The gap between the rich and the poor has widened, and the middle class—once the backbone of the economy—is shrinking rapidly.

The Emotional Toll
What’s even more concerning is the psychological and emotional toll this has taken on us as a nation. Many Nigerians have grown accustomed to this financial strain, adjusting their lifestyles and expectations downward just to survive. Dreams are put on hold, ambitions are downsized, and the spirit of resilience we once prided ourselves on is being tested like never before.

What Must Be Done?
The question we must now confront is: where do we go from here? As individuals, we need to focus on financial literacy, diversification of income, and investments that can protect us from the continued erosion of our wealth. At the same time, we must demand more from our leaders—policies that strengthen the naira, create jobs, and stabilize the economy are not optional; they are critical for our survival.

Ultimately, the economic realities of the past decade are a wake-up call for all of us. We cannot afford to ignore the deep structural issues that have brought us to this point. It’s time for honest conversations, bold action, and a collective commitment to rebuilding a country where the average Nigerian can once again afford to dream and thrive.

Zoracom Hosts Transformative StableNet Workshop, Sets New Benchmark in Network Stability

Zoracom Hosts Transformative StableNet Workshop, Sets New Benchmark in Network Stability

Zoracom, widely recognized as Nigeria’s leading Network Security Operations Centre (NSOC), has once again demonstrated its commitment to advancing the cybersecurity and network management ecosystem. The company recently organized an exclusive StableNet Workshop, which showcased the latest capabilities of StableNet® 25, a cutting-edge platform designed to revolutionize network stability and observability.

The workshop, held earlier this week, attracted a diverse array of participants, including top professionals, industry experts, and key stakeholders. It provided a dynamic environment for engaging discussions, practical demonstrations, and innovative problem-solving sessions. The event’s central focus was on empowering participants with the knowledge and tools to optimize network operations, with MTN Nigeria serving as a primary case study.

A Resounding Success
The workshop delivered on its promise of fostering growth and innovation, leaving participants highly impressed. Attendees immersed themselves in a comprehensive exploration of StableNet® 25’s powerful features, which are poised to set new industry standards. The event offered hands-on learning sessions that allowed participants to interact directly with the platform, enhancing their understanding of its potential to streamline network management.

According to Zoracom, the event marked a pivotal step toward transforming network stability and observability. “It was an incredible experience to see so many bright minds come together to exchange ideas and push the boundaries of what’s possible in network management. This workshop represents our ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation,” said a spokesperson from the organization.May be an image of 2 people and text

Driving Network Performance Forward
Participants left the workshop inspired and motivated to implement the groundbreaking strategies and technologies discussed. These takeaways are expected to lead to significant advancements in network operations, enabling organizations to achieve unparalleled performance and reliability.

Zoracom’s StableNet Workshop also served as a platform for fostering collaboration, encouraging attendees to work together toward common goals. The company reaffirmed its dedication to empowering organizations with cutting-edge solutions that drive operational efficiency and security in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

Looking Ahead
Building on the success of this workshop, Zoracom has announced plans to continue its journey of innovation and collaboration. The company encourages businesses and professionals across the industry to join its mission to redefine network management standards.

“This workshop was only the beginning. We’re committed to working with our partners to ensure their networks operate at peak performance. Together, we can achieve excellence,” Zoracom emphasized.

With its leadership in the NSOC space and a steadfast focus on innovation, Zoracom is poised to remain at the forefront of driving transformative change in the cybersecurity and network management ecosystem.

 

the event marked a pivotal step toward transforming network stability and observability. “It was an incredible experience to see so many bright minds come together to exchange ideas and push the boundaries of what’s possible in network management. This workshop represents our ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation,” said a spokesperson from the organization.

Information Minister Commends BPP for Driving Transparency in Public Procurement

Information Minister Commends BPP for Driving Transparency in Public Procurement

 

 

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has hailed the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for its innovative efforts in promoting transparency and accountability in the procurement process and the award of contracts.

Idris, who stated this in Abuja on Thursday when he received the Director General of the Bureau, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun and the management staff on a courtesy visit to his office, said under the Renewed Hope Agenda, procurement and award of contracts, would no longer be shrouded in secrecy.

“Before now, issues of procurement some times are being shrouded in some form of mystery. I’m glad that you are unraveling this now by making it transparent. There is really nothing to hide. If company “A” gets a contract, let everyone know that company “A” has gotten a contract and these are the reasons. Once this transparency is being upheld by your agency, I can tell you that people will lose contract and be happy for it,” he said.

Idris stated that the new initiative of completing the entire procurement process within 20 working days is a game-changer and a clear demonstration of the leadership focus, innovation, and determination to revolutionize the procurement procedures in the country.
The Minister is confident that an efficient procurement process would conserve resources, which would be deployed to poverty alleviation in the country.

He pledged his ministry’s readiness to work closely with the BPP to create awareness on the procurement process as well as wage a campaign against vandalism of public infrastructure.
Idris informed the visiting delegation that the ministry has been renamed the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, replacing its former name, the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, to prioritize public reorientation and the reclamation of national values.

“What the President is trying to say is that there is a new focus on reorientation and reclaiming of our national values and the President will very soon launch the National Values Charter on behalf of Nigerians,” he said.

Earlier, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, stated that the agency has implemented a well-structured procurement process to promote fairness, accountability, and competition in the award of contracts.

He said henceforth, all procurement process by Ministries, Departments and Agencies should be completed within the first half of the year.

Dr. Adedokun stated that the Bureau is transitioning to an electronic procurement system to allow contractors from various parts of the country, as well as those operating internationally, to participate in the bidding process.

He said the Bureau is now categorizing and classifying consultants and service providers to build the capacity of local contractors to be competitive globally.

The Director General added that ministries, departments, and agencies are now required to submit a quarterly report detailing all contracts awarded, including the names of the contractors, which will be uploaded to the BPP portal to further enhance transparency in the contract award process.

He stated that new procurement guidelines have been developed for medical equipment, food security, and vehicles to ensure standardized and seamless procurement processes.

Rabiu Ibrahim

OPINION: Lessons from the Hilda Baci Pepper Soup Saga

OPINION: Lessons from the Hilda Baci Pepper Soup Saga

 

Recently, social media was ablaze with a young lady’s grievances over spending ₦6,000 on pepper soup at Hilda Baci’s restaurant, which she likened to “dog vomit.” While her complaint drew widespread attention, it also sparked deeper questions about personal choices, priorities, and social expectations in today’s celebrity-driven culture.

1. Supporting Local Over Celebrity Brands
One has to wonder if the lady in question has no friends, neighbors, or acquaintances running food businesses within Lagos. These are people she knows personally—whose hygiene, cooking skills, and accountability she can vouch for. Instead of supporting those closer to her, she chose a celebrity-owned restaurant, likely drawn by the allure of Hilda’s fame as a Guinness World Record holder.

But why? Was the goal to say, “I ate at Hilda Baci’s restaurant”? If so, the complaint feels more like regret for a failed attempt at celebrity proximity than a genuine critique of service. Supporting local businesses often yields better value and stronger community ties.

2. Living Within One’s Means
The bigger issue lies in the purchasing habits of young working-class individuals. Spending ₦6,000 on a bowl of pepper soup from a high-profile brand is not inherently wrong, but one must evaluate affordability and long-term priorities. High-end restaurants in areas like Lekki or Victoria Island cater to a clientele with deeper pockets. Expecting budget-friendly portions and service from such establishments is unrealistic.

For someone earning between ₦90,000 and ₦200,000 monthly, splurging on a luxury meal could mean compromising other essentials. Shouldn’t there be a focus on responsible spending rather than chasing appearances?

3. Understanding Value and Expectations
Before criticizing Hilda’s restaurant, one must examine the menu and what was promised. Was it clear what the ₦6,000 would cover? If the portion fell short of expectations but matched the description, then this is a case of misunderstanding value rather than exploitation. However, if what was delivered didn’t align with the promised quality, Hilda’s team has lessons to learn about customer satisfaction and brand reputation.

4. The Dangers of Outsourcing Basic Needs
The rise of dining out among young people has led to a gradual outsourcing of basic skills like cooking. While it’s understandable for professionals to occasionally rely on restaurants, making it a habit introduces unnecessary risks, both financially and health-wise. There are countless cases of food poisoning or substandard meals from establishments that once appeared reputable.

Why not prioritize meal planning and home cooking? It’s not only cost-effective but also allows for better control over what goes into your food. The time spent complaining online could have been used to prepare a week’s worth of meals, ensuring both quality and peace of mind.

5. Lessons for the Youth
The pepper soup saga highlights a larger cultural issue: misplaced priorities. Many young people gravitate towards celebrity-endorsed brands, neglecting the more accessible and trustworthy options around them. This trend reflects an obsession with appearances and social validation, often at the expense of financial prudence and personal well-being.

In conclusion, while Hilda Baci’s restaurant may need to reassess its pricing and portioning, the responsibility also falls on consumers to make informed and realistic choices. Let’s prioritize community, responsibility, and self-reliance over fleeting moments of “famzing.”

Anthony Nwosu
Opinion contributor and business commentator

Why Every Graphic Designer Needs an Intel Core i5 Laptop or Higher – Menxtt Technology NG Has You Covered

Why Every Graphic Designer Needs an Intel Core i5 Laptop or Higher – Menxtt Technology NG Has You Covered

 

 

In the world of graphic design, creativity knows no bounds—but your laptop should never hold you back. Whether you’re crafting intricate designs, editing high-resolution images, or running multiple creative applications at once, having the right laptop is crucial to bringing your ideas to life. That’s why Menxtt Technology NG, your trusted online IT solutions provider, is recommending Intel Core i5 laptops and above to all graphic designers looking for a seamless and productive work experience.

According to Mrs. S. Ojo Nwosu, Manager of Menxtt Technology NG, “Graphic design is a field that demands power, speed, and reliability. A laptop with an Intel Core i5 processor or higher provides the performance needed to run design software smoothly, handle multitasking with ease, and deliver projects without frustrating slowdowns. At Menxtt Technology NG, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality laptops that help creatives unlock their full potential—without breaking the bank.”

Why an Intel Core i5 Laptop or Higher is a Game-Changer for Designers

💻 Uninterrupted Workflow with Superior Performance
Graphic design applications like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and CorelDRAW require serious processing power. An Intel Core i5 or higher ensures faster processing speeds, smooth editing, and real-time rendering, helping you work efficiently without lag.

🎨 Multitasking Made Easy
Designers often juggle multiple projects at once—whether it’s editing, browsing for inspiration, or managing client communications. With a Core i5 or higher, you can run several apps simultaneously without performance drops, allowing for a more fluid workflow.Intel Core i5 vs. Core i7: Which Processor Should You Buy? | Extremetech

🖥 Crystal Clear Graphics, Every Time
Intel Core i5 laptops come with enhanced integrated graphics (such as Intel Iris Xe) or even dedicated GPUs in some models, ensuring crisp visuals, accurate color representation, and faster rendering of complex designs and 3D elements.

🔋 Long-Lasting Performance On-the-Go
As a designer, your creativity isn’t limited to a desk. With the long battery life and portability of an Intel Core i5 laptop, you can work from anywhere—whether it’s a studio, a café, or during client meetings.

🚀 Future-Ready Investment
Technology evolves fast, and an Intel Core i5 or higher laptop is future-proof, meaning it will handle software updates and growing project demands for years to come. Investing in the right tools now ensures you stay ahead in your career.

Your Trusted Source for Quality Laptops – Menxtt Technology NG

Menxtt Technology NG takes pride in offering affordable, neatly used laptops from the USA and UK, ensuring quality and reliability with every purchase. Our laptops are:
✔ Genuine and backed by warranty for peace of mind
✔ Available at affordable prices
✔ Delivered to any location in Nigeria
✔ Perfectly suited for professionals and creatives alike

“Our goal is to bridge the gap between affordability and quality,” adds Mrs. Nwosu. “We believe that every designer deserves access to the right tools, and we’re here to make that possible with reliable laptops and nationwide delivery.”

Menxtt Technology NG also provides expert IT support, procurement services, and advisory solutions for SMEs, including the deployment of school management systems and ERP software to enhance business efficiency.

📞 Ready to elevate your creative journey? Get in touch today!

Menxtt Technology NG – Empowering Your Creativity with the Right Tools, Delivered to Your Doorstep.

### END ###

MainOne Lights Up on Equiano, Providing Unparalleled Redundancy for Enterprises

MainOne Lights Up on Equiano, Providing Unparalleled Redundancy for Enterprises

MainOne (www.MainOne.net), a leading provider of connectivity and data center services for businesses in West Africa, is excited to announce an additional layer of service to its customer through the Equiano submarine cable. This move provides an additional layer of resiliency for MainOne’s enterprise customers, ensuring uninterrupted service to support their growing business online at no additional cost.

 

Our customers can remain focused on the core of their business operations, not on the intricacies of managing multiple networks, fail-overs or resilience

Over the past decade, MainOne has enabled the digital transformation journey of these businesses with its pioneering services to operate digital-first business models whereby uninterrupted connectivity is paramount. Recognizing the challenges its customers face in ensuring business continuity amidst network disruptions such as the submarine cut earlier this year, MainOne has taken proactive steps to fortify its network. By incorporating capacity on the Equiano submarine cable into its network, MainOne is offering customers an additional level of redundancy to ensuring more reliable connectivity at all times.

’’We understand the technical complexities and cost associated with building and managing redundant network infrastructure,” noted Oluwasayo Oshadami, Director, Solutions Architect at MainOne, Solutions by Equinix. “Our customers can remain focused on the core of their business operations, not on the intricacies of managing multiple networks, fail-overs or resilience. With the integration of Equiano, we are simplifying and eliminating the stress of managing multiple cable connections for our end users. Hence, we give them the peace of mind they deserve.”

Enterprises can be confident that their network is supported by world-class infrastructure that is continuously monitored and maintained by a team of experts. MainOne’s proactive approach in enhancing its network resilience underscores its position as a trusted partner for businesses across West Africa. The integration of Equiano into its network is a testament to this commitment and reinforces the company’s position as a trusted partner for businesses in Nigeria.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MainOne, Solutions by Equinix.

About MainOne, Solutions by Equinix:
MainOne, Solutions by Equinix, is West Africa’s leading connectivity and managed services provider, delivering innovative services that empower the digital transformation of West Africa and beyond. As an Equinix Company, MainOne is committed to accelerating the growth of digital economies by providing top-tier data center services on Platform Equinix, network connectivity solutions throughout the West African region, and cloud services. The organization’s objectives align with the overarching goal of enhancing internet accessibility, reliability, and affordability for businesses and individuals.      ..

SC Ventures and Yabx, a Tech Mahindra Group company, invest $10 Million to setup Furaha and expand access to purpose-driven financing in Africa

SC Ventures and Yabx, a Tech Mahindra Group company, invest $10 Million to setup Furaha and expand access to purpose-driven financing in Africa

SC Ventures, Standard Chartered’s innovation, fintech investment and ventures arm, and Yabx Technologies (Netherlands) B.V., a company of Tech Mahindra (NSE: TECHM) group (http://apo-opa.co/42pTSb4), a leading global provider of technology consulting and digital solutions to enterprises across industries, have signed a set of shareholder and technology collaboration agreements to formalise their joint investment in Furaha (www.FurahaFinancial.com). SC Ventures has invested $ 7 million, while Yabx BV has contributed through technology transfer, resulting in a combined investment of $10 million in Furaha. Incubated by SC Ventures, and co-founded by Yustus Aribariho and Ian Fernandes, Furaha is a purpose-driven lending platform aiming to make finance accessible across sub-Saharan Africa, with its first offering being in the education financing space. Furaha is headquartered in UAE’s Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and extending its offerings to local operating markets in Africa, starting with Uganda as its first market.

The partnership will help enhance purpose-driven financing in Africa and supports our work to rewire the DNA in banking

“We are glad to partner with like-minded innovators like Yabx and Tech Mahindra who share our vision of increasing financial inclusion and access. The partnership will help enhance purpose-driven financing in Africa and supports our work to rewire the DNA in banking,” said Alex Manson, CEO, SC Ventures.

“The transformative power of purpose-driven financing lies in its ability to bridge gaps in access and opportunity, particularly in regions like Africa. This strategic partnership aims to make financial solutions more inclusive and impactful. It’s indeed an exciting beginning, and we look forward to collaborating with SC Ventures on many such initiatives that redefine financial empowerment and drive innovation globally,” said Mohit Joshi, CEO and Managing Director, Tech Mahindra.

Africa has the youngest demographics globally with over 600 million children under the age of 18. An education financing platform like Furaha could positively impact families across the continent. Furaha leverages Yabx’s nimble future-ready platform with AI driven alternate lending capabilities, with SC Ventures’ deep understanding of banking and risk management to reduce the cost of delivering purpose-driven lending products and widen financial inclusion across underserved segments in Africa.

“This partnership with SC Ventures is a big moment for Yabx. It marks our first step into the education financing space. The long-term impact of a partnership like this is huge, and we’re excited to work with Furaha as they positively impact education outcomes in Uganda and other African countries  in the coming months,” said Rajat Dayal, CEO, Yabx.

Among the biggest expenses families have to account for is the cost for good quality education for their children. Most parents lack adequate liquidity or access to short-term borrowing instruments — like credit cards or affordable, digital loans — and regularly face challenges paying school fees on time. Delayed or unpaid school fees often results in children unable to continue or complete their education, which impacts their future prospects and importantly the community and country’s development. The challenge is especially acute for parents with monthly incomes under $500.

Furaha offers a much-needed solution for parents and schools by creating a rich ecosystem of data for credit scoring and enabling commercial banks to channel affordable credit towards education financing. Furaha has started offering loan products in Uganda with partners including Opportunity Bank, SchPay and MTN MoMo and plans are underway to expand to other countries in Africa.

ATCON: The Heartbeat of Nigeria’s Telecommunications Revolution

ATCON: The Heartbeat of Nigeria’s Telecommunications Revolution

 

In the vibrant and dynamic landscape of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry, there exists a quiet yet powerful force driving change, connecting dreams, and transforming lives—the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON). For decades, ATCON has been more than just an industry body; it has been the compass guiding Nigeria’s telecommunications sector towards progress, inclusivity, and global relevance.

Ajibola Olude, the tireless and deeply passionate Secretary of ATCON, offers a glimpse into the soul of the organization. “For us, telecommunications isn’t just about infrastructure or numbers; it’s about people. It’s about the farmer in Kano finding new markets online, the student in Enugu attending virtual classes, and the entrepreneur in Lagos pitching to investors halfway across the world. Connectivity is life-changing, and we’ve made it our mission to ensure no one is left behind.”

Championing Connectivity for All

One of ATCON’s most enduring legacies is its relentless fight to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide. While metropolitan cities enjoy seamless internet access, millions of Nigerians in remote areas have long been excluded from the digital economy. ATCON took this as a call to action.

Ajibola speaks passionately about this drive: “When we think about connectivity, we think about equity. A child in a rural village deserves the same opportunities as a child in the city. Every Nigerian deserves to participate in the digital age, no matter where they are.”

Through partnerships with stakeholders, advocacy for better broadband policies, and strategic engagement with regulators like the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), ATCON has brought millions of Nigerians online. Today, the once-distant dream of universal connectivity feels closer than ever.

Driving Innovation for a Brighter Tomorrow

ATCON doesn’t just keep up with the times; it drives the conversation forward. From championing the rollout of 5G to leading discussions on artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT), the association has ensured that Nigeria stays ahead of the curve.

Ajibola recalls the excitement around these innovations: “We see the future and understand what’s possible. Innovation isn’t just about technology; it’s about opportunities. It’s about creating jobs, transforming industries, and giving Nigerians a competitive edge on the global stage.”

Events like the Telecom Executives and Regulators Forum have become incubators for groundbreaking ideas. Here, industry leaders and regulators gather not just to discuss challenges but to build solutions that redefine the sector. “These forums are where the magic happens,” Ajibola says with a smile. “They’re where we chart the path forward.”

A Voice for the Industry, A Partner for Progress

ATCON’s advocacy has been one of its most impactful contributions. Acting as the voice of the industry, the association has successfully mediated between telecom operators, regulators, and the government, ensuring policies are fair, forward-thinking, and growth-oriented.

Ajibola describes this role with pride: “We’re not just a mouthpiece; we’re a partner. When the industry struggles with issues like multiple taxation or vandalism of infrastructure, we step in with solutions. When the government needs input on policy, we provide insights that benefit everyone—operators, consumers, and the economy.”

It’s this ability to bring diverse stakeholders together that has earned ATCON the trust and respect of the entire telecommunications ecosystem.

Beyond Infrastructure: Changing Lives, One Connection at a Time

What truly sets ATCON apart is its people-first philosophy. Ajibola speaks with deep emotion when describing the human impact of their work. “It’s easy to talk about policies and technologies, but for us, it’s about stories. It’s about the single mother who can now run a business online, the graduate who landed a remote job, or the rural health worker accessing critical medical information. These are the lives we touch every day.”

ATCON’s work is not just about connecting people to the internet; it’s about connecting them to opportunities, knowledge, and a better future.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Hope

Despite the successes, Ajibola acknowledges that the journey is far from over. “We still face hurdles—like inconsistent policies across states, infrastructure vandalism, and the high cost of Right of Way. But every challenge is an opportunity for us to innovate and push harder. We are determined to build a sector that serves every Nigerian.”

Looking to the future, Ajibola calls on all stakeholders to join the mission. “This isn’t just ATCON’s responsibility; it’s a shared goal. Policymakers, operators, investors, and even consumers all have roles to play. Together, we can create a telecommunications industry that is truly world-class.”

A Legacy of Transformation

At its core, ATCON is about more than just telecommunications; it’s about transformation. The association has become a symbol of resilience, innovation, and collaboration—a beacon of hope in a rapidly changing world.

For Ajibola and his team, the work is personal. “Every time we see progress—every new connection, every breakthrough—we know it’s worth it. This isn’t just about building an industry; it’s about building a nation.”

As Nigeria stands on the cusp of a fully digital future, ATCON remains its steadfast guide, ensuring that progress is not just measured in megabytes but in meaningful impact. It’s a story of connection, empowerment, and the unyielding belief that technology can change lives—and ATCON is at the heart of it all.

NBA Women Forum Advocates for Adaptability in Legal Practice Amid AfCFTA Opportunities

NBA Women Forum Advocates for Adaptability in Legal Practice Amid AfCFTA Opportunities

 

Chinyere Okorocha, the Immediate Past Chair of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Women Forum, has called on legal practitioners to remain agile and forward-thinking as the legal profession continues to evolve. Speaking at the recently concluded NBA Lagos Branch meeting, she stressed that success in an ever-changing legal landscape hinges on the ability to explore emerging areas of law and adapt to global trends.

The highlight of the meeting was a thought-provoking presentation by Mr. Olusupo Shasore SAN, FCIArb, titled “Future-Proofing Your Practice: Understanding the Rudiments of International Trade Law and the AfCFTA.” The distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria unpacked the fundamentals of international trade law, providing attendees with a clear roadmap to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He outlined practical strategies for growing and diversifying legal practices to meet the demands of an interconnected and fast-changing global economy.

Chinyere Okorocha reflected on the presentation, stating, “For me, future-proofing a legal career is about more than just understanding current frameworks. It’s about identifying and seizing opportunities to expand expertise into global markets while embracing continuous education and strategic networking. These elements are crucial for remaining relevant, innovative, and competitive in today’s dynamic world.”

The event, graciously hosted by ALP NG & Co, underscored the importance of industry gatherings in equipping legal practitioners with fresh perspectives and actionable insights. Beyond intellectual enrichment, such events foster invaluable networking opportunities, enabling lawyers to build partnerships and collaborations that strengthen their professional impact.

The discussion illuminated the transformative potential of the AfCFTA, which is set to redefine opportunities in international trade law. With its aim to create a single African market for goods and services, the agreement opens doors for legal practitioners to provide advisory services on compliance, cross-border transactions, dispute resolution, and regulatory matters.

Legal experts at the event emphasized the need for practitioners to upskill and position themselves strategically to capitalize on this shift. Key recommendations included:

  1. Continuous Learning: Engaging in specialized training on international trade law, understanding AfCFTA frameworks, and mastering key trade protocols.
  2. Strategic Networking: Building connections with industry stakeholders, policymakers, and businesses seeking legal guidance in navigating AfCFTA regulations.
  3. Collaboration Across Borders: Partnering with legal firms and experts in other African countries to provide seamless advisory services for cross-border transactions.
  4. Leveraging Technology: Adopting legal tech solutions to streamline services, ensuring efficiency in cross-border legal practices.

The AfCFTA represents a watershed moment for the legal profession, creating opportunities for practitioners to expand their influence on a continental scale. However, questions remain about how prepared the legal community is to take advantage of these opportunities.

As the conversation continues, practitioners are invited to reflect on the following: How can the AfCFTA reshape the future of legal practice in Africa? What specific steps should lawyers take to position themselves as leaders in this emerging space?

The NBA Women Forum’s focus on innovation and adaptability serves as a clarion call for legal professionals to embrace the future with boldness and determination. With proactive efforts, the legal profession can thrive in an increasingly interconnected and competitive global marketplace.

NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects Office Hosts Workshop to Enhance Service Delivery

NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects Office Hosts Workshop to Enhance Service Delivery

 

In a strategic move to boost efficiency and service delivery, the office of the Executive Director of Projects at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) recently organized a comprehensive workshop aimed at enhancing workforce productivity, fostering teamwork, and improving conflict management strategies. The workshop, held in Port Harcourt, brought together key stakeholders and staff to deliberate on critical issues affecting the Commission’s operations and its service to the people of the Niger Delta region.

A major highlight of the event was a review of the 2024 work year, which served as an opportunity for participants to reflect on past challenges and achievements. The review session encouraged a culture of continuous improvement by promoting the concepts of learning, unlearning, and re-strategizing to enhance public service effectiveness in the years ahead.

Speaking during the workshop, the Executive Director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai, emphasized the importance of retrospection and collaboration in driving the Commission’s goals forward. In his address to staff, he stated:

“This retrospective session provides a unique opportunity for all of us to come together, share our experiences, and gain valuable insights from one another. We aim to strengthen our understanding of reporting lines and organizational protocols, improve conflict resolution skills, and enhance collaboration and leadership within the workplace.”

Sir Antai underscored the Commission’s commitment to fostering a more cohesive and results-driven workforce, highlighting the necessity of aligning individual and departmental goals with the overarching mission of the NDDC. He noted that improved communication channels, adherence to structured reporting lines, and effective leadership were critical to achieving the desired level of service delivery.

The workshop sessions covered various topics, including team building, conflict resolution strategies, leadership development, and interdepartmental collaboration. Participants engaged in practical exercises and discussions designed to equip them with the tools necessary to address workplace challenges effectively and contribute meaningfully to the Commission’s objectives.

As part of the initiative, attendees were encouraged to adopt a proactive approach to problem-solving, embrace innovative solutions, and commit to fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.

The NDDC leadership believes that workshops such as this will play a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency, improving employee morale, and ultimately delivering better developmental outcomes for the Niger Delta region.