President Bola Tinubu has called for a stronger and better cooperation with the United States, as Nigeria and the rest of the world move in the quest for renewable and other sources of clean energy.

He spoke during a meeting with United States Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of Energy Resources, Ambassador Geoffrey Praytt, at the State House, Abuja on Monday.
President Tinubu presented his own perspectives to the US delegation on the role of Nigeria as an oil producing country and the importance of revenue from fossil oil to national economic well-being.

Nigeria, according to the President, will honour all its obligations to climate change and quest for clean energy.

President Tinubu appealed to the United States and other developed nations to recognize that Nigeria and Africa have a challenge of poverty that must be addressed, saying in the race for energy transition, the world must have a right balance between the fossil fuel and green energy.

“Nigeria is an oil producing nation and a developing economy that needs revenue from fossil fuel for growth and development. The new energy we are talking about represents just 5% of global energy requirements. We must find the right balance between new energy and fossil fuel because we have problem of poverty in Africa.”

On the nexus between the problem of poverty in Africa and fragility of democracy on the continent, President Tinubu admonished the United States to work with Nigeria to protect the government of the people.

He also urged the Assistant Secretary of State to impress on his home government the urgency of responding to the needs of Nigeria.

“Our democracy needs protection like all other democracies in the world. We cherish our partnership with the US. My concern is whether United States is giving us enough as much as we need. The US should not make us hungry to the point we will have to eat the dinner of our enemy.

“We need the funding support to help us drive and accelerate our energy diversification. There are bottlenecks that must be unbottled in terms of how the US bureaucracy responds to our needs. Help must be given when it is needed. We are ready to learn and develop to join 21st century economy. Please take it home that we need help and very quickly too. I am honoured with your recognition of the baby steps we have taken so far. I want to assure you that Nigeria will honour her obligations on climate change and renewables,” the President said.

Ambassador Praytt in his remarks extolled the bold economic initiatives already taken by President Tinubu with respect to fuel subsidy removal and unification of multiple foreign exchange rates.

He said he was in the country partly to inform the President that President Joe Biden is in support of the steps taken so far by Nigeria to reduce the impact of fossil fuel.
“We are opening a new page in US relations with Nigeria. Nigeria is taking important steps in growing the renewable energy to meet the need of her citizens.

“We are very happy with our work with NNPCL and your team. Your new Special Adviser on Energy is already doing very well,” the US Envoy said.

Earlier in his introductory remarks, Group Managing Director of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, told the President that the Energy Industry in Nigeria had been engaging the US Department of Energy on the energy transition.

Kyari acknowledged the support the Nigerian government received from the US Department of Energy to develop the Petroleum Industry Act.

In a significant move to foster digital skills development and youth empowerment, the Jigawa State Government has partnered with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to empower youths with on-demand digital skills aimed at providing youths an enabling environment for their innovation to thrive in the digital economy.
The Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi Danmodi, who visited the Agency’s Corporate Headquarters, stated that exploring the partnership is part of Jigawa State Government’s efforts to create a more conducive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship, believing that digital skills are essential for economic development and job creation.
The primary focus of the partnership is the integration of Jigawa State’s youth empowerment programmes with NITDA’s initiative of ongoing One Million Developers training being conducted by the Agency.
According to the both parties, this collaboration will create a favorable environment for youth empowerment and the development of digital skills in the State, which is in line with the Federal Government’s vision of digital economy agenda and the need to bridge the digital divide across all states.
Recognising the immense potential of digital technology in driving economic growth and job creation, the Governor emphasised the importance of equipping the youth with the requisite knowledge and skills to take advantage of emerging opportunities, and expressed his commitment to promoting digital literacy and equipping the youth of Jigawa State with the necessary skills in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The Governor also informed that Jigawa has established Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Agency aims at equipping young individuals with essential digital skills, which will play a key role in bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth within the state and the nation at large.
He added that the Agency will provide youths with the skills and resources they need to succeed in the digital economy, through offers of programmes such as training on digital skills, business development support, and access to funding.
He expressed his gratitude to NITDA for the unwavering support, and reaffirmed his commitment to the success of the partnership. He highlighted the potential impact of the collaboration on job creation, economic growth, and overall development of digital economy in Jigawa State.
Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE welcomed the partnership with Jigawa government and commended Governor Danmodi’s proactive approach to youth empowerment. He assured him of NITDA’s readiness to support the State in its quest to build a digital-savvy workforce and transform the state’s economy through emerging technology.
Inuwa commended the governor’s vision by establishing Youth’s Agency and assured him of NITDA’s support in achieving the shared goals of empowering youth and promoting digital inclusion.
While emphasising the importance of digital literacy and skills development, Inuwa stated that they were fundamental in harnessing the potential of the youth and enabling them to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation.
“As the technology continues to evolve, the Jigawa-NITDA collaboration will serve as a shining example of proactive measures taken by state governments to empower the youth and position communities for success in the digital era,” the DG added.
Under the collaboration, NITDA will provide technical assistance, training programmes, and capacity-building that encompass various domains, including software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Furthermore, NITDA will facilitate access to its existing initiatives such as the Digital States Initiative, which aims to transform states into digitally innovative and inclusive ecosystems. Through this programme, Jigawa will be able to leverage NITDA’s expertise and experience in creating an enabling environment for digital entrepreneurship and innovation.
Both Governor Danmodi and Director General Inuwa believe that investing in the digital skills development of the youth will contribute significantly to reducing unemployment, poverty, and social vices in the State.
They expressed optimism that the collaboration between the state government and NITDA would yield fruitful results, as the youth are poised to become catalysts of digital transformation, paving the way for a brighter future.

 

By Uche Nworah, Ph.D

This is a picture of Nnewi security command center. Very commendable. Anambra communities are now waking up to the realization that they should not just wait on government alone to protect their indigenes and secure their communities.

One after the other, they are launching upscaled security initiatives. The local vigilante groups are being re-kitted, placed on improved pay, life insurance policies are being introduced, weapons, vehicles and other security equipment are being bought, thus improving the morale of the operatives. Most importantly, they are going the way of tech in crime prevention. The vigilante operatives work collaboratively with government security agencies.

Enugwu-Ukwu in Njikoka local government and Alor in Idemili South local government, all in Anambra state, have also launched town-wide CCTV surveillance and re-jigged their communities’ security architecture. This is way to go for other communities. The revamped security system are funded by the communities themselves through contributions by their indigenes.

Ndigbo have always championed self-help community development initiatives since the end of the Nigeria/Biafra war. We contribute money and build our town halls, hospitals, markets, and roads in our various communities. We build classroom blocks, award scholarships, build ICT centers, and sink boreholes. Sometimes some individuals take it upon themselves and sponsor solely some of these projects.

Seeing what insecurity has cost the region, it’s about time that other communities adopt some of these new initiatives. We should not wait for the government alone to secure our various communities. Government is battling dwindling resources and fighting competing interests. Also, politicking does get in the way.

Communities should prioritize security in their community development projects. This will encourage individuals and businesses fleeing as a result of insecurity to return. Burials, weddings and other events which are now being held in Lagos, Abuja and other distant places will gradually return. Local caterers, hotels and entertainers will become busy again.

@Uche Nworah

 

By Uche Nworah, Ph.D

Skits have allowed home-grown talents to promote the various cities in Nigeria where the skit makers grew up to new audiences.

In the South-East region, Aba and Onitsha have always prided themselves in being the homes of trade and commerce. Each of the towns also lay claims to being pioneers or champions of what my teacher at the University of Uyo, Late Professor Emmanuel D. Akpan referred to us ‘motor park type of entertainment’. The ‘Uncle JB’ style of entertainment, raw, spontaneous, largely unscripted but funny, and cheap to act and produce.

These types of street comedy which are usually performed at motor parks and street corners have now been elevated by smart young Nigerians using technology and social media.

Aba boasts of the likes of Real Ngwa Pikin with her thick Ngwa accent, Inside Life 411, and his ‘sexploits’ as Papa Ifeanyi using American hit TV show characters – The Simpsons, and others. Onitsha boasts of MC I GO TUK (Ogbuefi Main Market), MC Ezegetive, Onye Obodo, Iyoo Cashout, Mama Onye Obodo and others.

Each of these skit makers in their social media skits use the language and slangs spoken in the mentioned two cities. They also try to parody the mannerisms, behaviours, attitudes and lifestyles of people that grew up in the two towns. Within it is a subtle supremacy battle and challenge of which of the two cities, Aba and Onitsha, is greater using the indices of street smartness, ‘guymanness’, ‘mugu level’, fashion sense etc.

Judging by the popularity of the skit makers from Onitsha, richness of their content, variety and range, it appears that the Onitsha skit makers are edging it over Aba skit makers. As an Aba boy, I don’t feel happy about this.

This is a big challenge for the Aba skit makers to up their game. After all, Aba like Warri ‘no dey carry last’.

African beverage trends are driven by innovation and culture. From the cherished rituals of traditional tea and coffee to the emerging popularity of carbonated soft drinks and fruit juices. Africa’s beverage market is evolving rapidly, reflecting changing consumer preferences and the impact of various socio-economic factors.

 

Smollan representing some of the world’s most loved FMCG and commerce brands, gives a glimpse into Africa’s dynamic beverage consumption landscape – the driving forces, and the cultural significance they hold.

Multiple factors shape the evolving beverage consumption patterns in Africa. Economic growth has led to an expanding middle class with increased purchasing power, allowing consumers to explore a wider range around choices. The influence of social media and exposure to global trends have also played a pivotal role as consumers are now more aware of new products and flavours. Furthermore, Africa’s cultural diversity has resulted in a mosaic of preferences, with regional variations shaping beverage consumption trends.

Rich and robust teas from Kenyan purple to North African mint and Red Rooibos down south, capture a unique market with deep African roots steeped in ancient traditions and rituals

Rich and robust teas from Kenyan purple to North African mint and Red Rooibos down south, capture a unique market with deep African roots steeped in ancient traditions and rituals. This market is projected to reach a CAGR of 5.5% between 2022 and 2027 according to a recent Mordor Intelligence report. So too, coffee holds an entrenched space from the cultural significance of the Ethiopian coffee ceremony to the birth of café culture in countries like Kenya, one of the world’s most prolific producers, and Morocco with Arabic coffee their national drink. Africa is certainly holding its own – from gaining recognition for their superlative teas, to robust coffee production and rising consumption levels. These beverages go beyond mere flavours and act as social lubricants, fostering community bonds, embodying the spirit of hospitality.

So too, with the global fruit juice market valued at US$ 147.5 Billion in 2022 according the IMARC Group, Africa significantly contributes to this growing sector, with brands such as Nigeria’s Chivita 100%, a “no added sugar, no preservatives and no artificial colours or flavours” – recently awarded brand of the decade at the ‘West African Brand Awards’. While further south, Ceres Fruit Juices, are widely consumed in Africa and imported to over 80 countries with the U.S., their largest market.

Global beverage giants have keenly observed the continent’s immense potential and invested in expanding their presence – for example, testament to the surge in consumption of carbonated soft drinks. Local bottling plants and efficient distribution networks have been established, making these beverages readily accessible to a larger population. Urbanisation, improved living standards, and growing disposable incomes have significantly driven African consumers’ escalating demand for these types of drinks. So too, the rise of locally manufactured brands offering a quality taste at a fraction of the cost, has created a competitive environment for global brands.

Warren Brett Cluster Executive, SEA Region, Smollan Tanzania said, “The fusion of traditional and international beverages reflects the dynamic nature of African consumption, with a blend of a much-loved heritage on the one hand and innovation on the other. We are seeing large-scale growth across multiple markets, with Coca-Cola and Pepsi in the carbonated sector, and Diageo, Heineken and ABInbev driving alcoholic beverage growth.”

Alcoholic beverages are prominent in African culture and are enjoyed during social gatherings and celebrations. Traditional beverages like Nigerian palm wine, sorghum beer from Zambia, and tchapalo millet beer from Côte d’Ivoire have been cherished across the continent for ages. With globalisation and urbanisation at play Western alcoholic beverages, including beer and spirits, have entered the market. “Manufacturing is generally done locally, and while they have the strength of that and brand building on their side, we bring the expertise to deliver on execution through enabled technology. Ultimately creating a line of sight for the decision makers to be able to pivot the business around sustaining volumes and low margins. An evolving, dynamic landscape that is set to keep us on our toes with a long-term picture in mind, and that really drives us,” said Brett.

After a successful participation at GITEX Africa 2023, INOI (www.INOI.com) is delighted to share the highlights and results of the event held in Marrakech, Morocco from May 31st to June 2nd. The brand and the new products line-up received a very positive response from the public, anticipating the company’s entry into African markets. This event demonstrated INOI’s dedication to growth within these regions.

 

At the event a new INOI Note 13s smartphone was showcased to the public for the first time. Designed for ultimate productivity, the Note 13s features an extra-large 6.95” screen perfect for immersive gaming and video content, an octa-core processor, and runs on latest Android 13. International sales of the Note 13s are due to commence from this month.

The latest INOI smartphone line-up presented at the event also included other 2023 models: the A63, A73s, A83. The A63 is an octa-core smartphone that comes with a fingerprint sensor, ensuring convenience and security for users. The A73s is a stylish device with a long-lasting 5,000 mAh battery, making it perfect for on-the-go use. INOI A83 is perfect camera phone with 48MP main camera resolution and 13 MP selfie camera for stunning shots, backed up with a powerful processor with 6GB RAM.

The company has revealed its future plans to launch a 5G smartphone and 4G feature phones in the second half of 2023

Along with the smartphones, INOI also introduced its inoiPad and inoiPad Pro tablets, both with a 10.1″ screen size and powered by a 6,000 mAh battery, ideal for streaming and multitasking. The inoiPad Pro boasts a bright screen with Full HD resolution, providing an immersive entertainment experience.

The company has revealed its future plans to launch a 5G smartphone and 4G feature phones in the second half of 2023, reinforcing their innovative approach and adaptability to the dynamic global market trends.

The success of the GITEX Africa 2023 underlined INOI’s commitment to innovation and affordability, as well as to its ongoing growth in the mobile technology market.

INOI’s Marketing Director, Ilias Iliadis, commented, “We were thrilled to be part of the successful GITEX Africa event, where we had the opportunity to introduce our latest line-up of devices to customers. Our dedication to offering high-quality functional and affordable devices has already resonated with millions of active users. With great confidence, we believe that our latest devices will captivate an even wider range of customers in Africa.”

INOI’s Global Sales Director, Alex Kazak, emphasized the brand’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Middle East and Africa markets. Having INOI’s global sales and marketing headquarters in Dubai, the company offers enhanced support to customers in MEA region. This strategic move demonstrates the company’s unwavering dedication to its customers and its determination to grow its brand in the region.

 

 

Kecam Technologies Ltd , a leading provider of comprehensive data protection solutions, is pleased to invite you to our upcoming webinar on June 27th, where we will explore the world of endpoint data protection and introduce the revolutionary capabilities of BDRSuite.

In today’s digital landscape, data plays a critical role in the success of any organization, making its safety and security a top priority. Our webinar will provide valuable insights into the importance of endpoint backup and the potential risks associated with data loss. We will showcase how BDRSuite, our cutting-edge data protection software, can transform your backup strategies and ensure business continuity.

During the webinar, you can expect to learn about:

The significance of endpoint backup and the potential risks associated with data loss

How BDRSuite offers automated scheduling, robust encryption, efficient storage utilization, and centralized management to optimize your data protection efforts

Ensuring business continuity and data availability in the face of unforeseen circumstances

Additionally, we are thrilled to announce the unveiling of BDRSuite v5.6.0 Update 2, which introduces extensive new features and enhancements designed to further enhance your data protection capabilities.

Date: June 27,2023Time:

To register for this exclusive webinar and secure your spot, please visit Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to sign up early to avoid disappointment.

As the Authorized Distributor for Vembu across West Africa, Kecam Technologies Ltd understands the growing importance of data protection and resilience for organizations of the future. We are committed to providing innovative solutions that add value to your cybersecurity strategies and reinforce your data security posture.

Join us for this informative webinar and gain insights from industry professionals, as we share best practices for implementing a comprehensive endpoint backup strategy using BDRSuite. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your data security and protect your organization’s most valuable asset.

For further information or inquiries, please contact:

Bonny Mekwunye
Kecam Technologies Limited
Phone: 08028227898
Email: info@kecamtechnologies.com

 

Approved Vodafone Signal Booster Installer

Vodafone is one of the leading network carriers in the UK, and an estimated third of the population uses them. While they are popular and have wide coverage across the country, there are times when you will lose signal. This could be when you are on your way to work, at home, or in your office, and there is little you can do to avoid this. Often, the signal loss is not directly related to the Vodafone network and is instead a result of the Vodafone signal blocked by insulation intended to retain heat but actually blocking all Vodafone signals into the home.

Mobile Signal Solutions is an approved installer for Ofcom compliant Vodafone signal boosters and mobile repeater equipment. Call our experienced team today to discuss improving the Vodafone network at your business. They will complete a survey to check the Vodafone coverage signal levels, the layout of the building, and will give you a plan to improve Vodafone signal using approved Vodafone mobile repeaters and a network of antennas where needed.

Benefits of a Vodafone Mobile Signal Booster

There is nothing worse than losing a mobile signal because your phone is suddenly struggling to pick up quality mobile Vodafone network coverage. If you have this issue, you need to know how you could get around this. You should consider if there is any solution you can use. The answer to your problem is a Vodafone mobile signal booster. These boosters are locked to the Vodafone signal and will make it available to your phone. If you are unsure about getting a booster, you should consider all the perks that come with it.

When you use a Vodafone approved booster, you will get a better signal connection. This means that your calls will have better quality, you will drop fewer calls and your texts will go through faster. Noise and distortion will also be reduced when you make a call. If you have weak and unstable connections, the signal will be boosted and strengthened when using a booster. This results in a constant 5 bar signal which is what everyone wants. If you want advice on 3G, 4G or 5G network boosters we have a guide to help.

Network Issues for Vodafone

In urban areas, the Vodafone mobile coverage capacity is on a high level. Whereas in villages in the UK, the phone connection is far from perfect and people may face EE mobile signal issues. Slow internet is something you want to avoid, but that is what you have with poor signal. Fortunately, your booster can come to the rescue. The booster will amplify the signal to offer a strong connection. When you use a Vodafone 4G signal booster, you will get the internet speeds that you want and need. This means you never have to suffer from a slow connection that makes it impossible to check anything online.

L

Moppets introduces wholesome and organic alternatives, disrupting the traditional baby food industry

Lagos, Nigeria – In a market saturated with additives, colorings, and processed grains, Roberta Edu has emerged as a game changer, bringing a breath of fresh air to Nigeria’s infant baby formula market with her brand, Moppets. With a focus on disrupting the industry and providing healthier options for infants, Edu aims to empower mothers with a choice that promotes the well-being of their children.

As a dedicated working mother, Edu understands the importance of providing nutritious meals for her kids. It was during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, when supermarkets and malls were closed, that she embarked on a quest to find the perfect infant formula. This led to the creation of Moppets, initially starting as a home experiment where Edu researched and collaborated with pediatricians and nutritionists to develop baby food recipes.

What began as a humble endeavor soon gained traction as Edu shared her experiences on her Facebook page. Encouraged by the positive response and advice from her followers, she decided to commercialize her product. Within just three years of establishment, Moppets has made significant waves in supermarkets and malls, revolutionizing the value chain delivery and logistics.

With a background in IT, Roberta Edu, often referred to as “Betta” by her friends, aims to make a lasting impact and serve as a role model for young girls aspiring to make a difference. Her success story challenges the notion that certain fields are exclusive to men, emphasizing the potential for women to achieve remarkable accomplishments given the right opportunities.

Presently, Moppets offers three variants of baby formula, catering to the diverse needs of infants. Additionally, the company is exploring the expansion into organic grain foods for adults. The infant formula market in Nigeria is one of the largest in Africa, with millions of babies born annually. Moppets is causing a disruption in this market, offering a local, organic alternative that resonates with health-conscious consumers.

Commenting on her brand, Mrs. Roberta Edu expressed, “I am just a mother striving to provide quality meals for my kids and other children in Nigeria at an affordable price. That is why we started Moppets. We want to give mothers like us the option to feed their children locally-produced food while contributing to job creation and the development of the economy through value chain enhancement.”

With Moppets’ mission to promote healthy and wholesome nutrition for infants, Roberta Edu is carving a path toward a better future for Nigerian children, one meal at a time.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

 

 

 

What began as a humble endeavor soon gained traction as Edu shared her experiences on her Facebook page. Encouraged by the positive response and advice from her followers, she decided to commercialize her product. Within just three years of establishment, Moppets has made significant waves in supermarkets and malls, revolutionizing the value chain delivery and logistics.

 

Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, played host to an elite gathering of corporate moguls who flocked to his majestic palace, igniting a frenzy of excitement among the masses. The purpose behind this historic visit was nothing short of a grand collaboration to revolutionize the magnificent Osun State, setting ablaze the embers of progress and prosperity.

His resplendent majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, delivered a thunderous proclamation to the assembled throng, proclaiming, “Behold the magnificence that befalls our beloved Osun State! The corporate world has cast its adoring gaze upon us, and this momentous occasion shall forever be etched in our glorious history. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for gracing our regal palace with your esteemed presence. The people of Ife, nay, the entire Yoruba nation, are overwhelmed with gratitude.”

Bearing witness to the undeniable power of corporate social responsibility, the distinguished titans of industry wasted no time in harnessing their immense influence to formulate groundbreaking initiatives destined to revolutionize the state. Inspired and blessed by the King himself, they pledged to embark on a visionary journey that will reshape the very fabric of Osun State.

The distinguished guests who basked in the aura of royal splendor include:

Owoeye Adeloye James, CEO of Holarem Nig Ltd – Mastermind behind the thriving empire of poultry farming and Oil & Gas magnificence.
Bamidele Banjo Oluwaseun, CEO of Klear Concept Ltd – A genius orchestrating the symphony of poultry farming and Oil & Gas triumph.
Honorable Salako Tajudeen Adebayo, MD of Buzz Integrated Resources – A visionary leader propelling the realms of Real Estate and Construction towards uncharted heights.
Elatuyi Oladele Isaac, MD of Meadows Incorporation Ltd – A stalwart in the poultry farming domain and a revered consultant.
Manish Rohtagi, Group CEO of Choice International Group – The mastermind behind the thriving conglomerate encompassing Lontor, GAC Motor, and Gree, poised to conquer the world.

This monumental convergence of regality and entrepreneurial prowess marks a turning point in the annals of Osun State. With the Ooni of Ife at the helm, and the corporate titans standing united, the path to unprecedented growth, prosperity, and innovation is now vividly illuminated.