The Nation Newspaper

Category: Brand week

  • National Lottery Trust Fund unveils logo

    National Lottery Trust Fund unveils logo

    The National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) witnessed a stamp of endorsement that would catapult the organisations and individuals to another level of wealth creation, when it unveiled its new logo last week in Abuja.

    In the words of the Director-General, National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), Mr Habu Gumel, this step by the lottery fund management “is geared towards ensuring that the pace of progress and activities in the lottery sector is in line with the transformation agenda of the Federal Government.”

    Secretary to the Government, Pius Anyim who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties, Henry Akpan said the significance of the new brand outlook “symbolises the awakening of a sleeping giant.”

    Anyim said the unveiling of the emblem indicates that “the NLTF is telling Nigerians that it is now ready to rise up to its statutory mandate, and consequently that Nigerians should also get ready for a new dimension of the Federal Government’s transformation agenda.”

    Minister, Special Duties, Kabiru Turaki said: “The decision by the management of the trust fund to unveil its iconic logo, a website and an in-house information brochure is very strategic.”

    He assured that the government will ensure that new regulatory framework and polices that deepens competition and growth of lottery market in Nigeria are pursued and implemented.

    The NLTF was established eight years ago under the National Lottery Acts 2005 to take custody of government’s share of the proceeds generated from national lottery operations in the country.

    Project consultant and Chief Executive Officer of Visage PR Limited, Afolabi Andu said the design framework of the logo captured the essence of the NLTF’s mandate as a remittance receiving entity whose primary source of fund is lottery and what it seeks to achieve with the funds as provided under the lottery Act. He explained that ‘sports’ was chosen as the main theme because of “its unifying power which transcends religion, ethnicity, race and politics.”

    Andu reiterated that “the new NLTF brand outlook is not just about grant-giving; it is about an emblem that could be a stamp of endorsement that succinctly fits in the transformation agenda of President, Goodluck Jonathan, in facilitating the achievement of set national development goals.

    “The new brand draws on what the NLTF intends to achieve in its vision of becoming a world-class transformational lottery intervention funder of sustainable social investments in a broad, distinctive and integrated approach firmly grounded in Nigeria’s development agenda,” he noted.

    The public relations specialist said the jagged symbol or emblem seen on the logo is reflective of an aerial view of a stadium when viewed from the air adding that the logo is finished in national colours with shades of lemon green and white signifying elegance and freshness, which “will easily connect with partners and stakeholders in the industry.”

    Gumel said: “Our new logo reveals a brand that will be familiar, instantly recognisable by Nigerians and associated with our projects and outreach activities as we commence investments in good causes projects nationwide. The logo remains our voice and messenger that resonates with our valuable customers, development partners and stakeholders.”

  • As middle class grows, global brands hit Nigeria

    Inside this 1950s-style American diner, waitresses softly sing along to Aretha Franklin as they sling hamburgers and whip up milkshakes. The jukebox belts out Ritchie Valens as a customer wearing a Muslim prayer cap and flowing blue robes ambles in.

    This isn’t the U.S., where the kitsch restaurant chain Johnny Rockets has several hundred locations, but instead Nigeria, where foreign companies have hesitated to invest because of logistical challenges, poor electricity and government corruption.

    Now, however, as Nigeria’s middle class grows along with the appetite for foreign brands in Africa’s most populous nation, more foreign restaurants and lifestyle companies are entering the country. And the draw on Nigerians’ new discretionary spending has also put new expectations on providing quality service in a nation where many have grown accustomed to expecting very little.

    “It really is impressive to go out to places and see places filled with everybody from all different walks of life,” said Christopher Nahman, the managing director at the Johnny Rockets in Nigeria’s largest city, Lagos. “Nigerians are a very inspirational society also. Even somebody who it might be really kind of a burden on them financially, they will still do it to just have that experience.

    “It’s very encouraging moving forward because that’s what you need to sustain an economy. … There’s no going back.”

    The majority of those who live in Nigeria, home to more than 160 million people, live in poverty. Just more than 60 percent of Nigerians earn the equivalent of less than $1 a day, according to a 2012 study published by the country’s National Bureau of Statistics. For decades, only tiny sliver of the population either involved in the country’s oil industry or its government roundly criticized for corruption had access to wealth.

    The end of military rule in 1999 saw the country’s economy slowly open up, with new professional jobs being added in banks and the rapidly growing mobile phone market. That gave birth to Nigeria’s rapidly growing middle class, whose members earn about $480 between $645 a month and represent nearly a quarter of the country’s population, according to a September 2011 study by investment firm Renaissance Capital.

    Over time, those figures started to attract businesses who previously hadn’t been working in Nigeria. In retail, South African firms have flocked into Nigeria, finding places in the new malls being opened around Lagos. MassMart Holdings Ltd., of which Wal-Mart Stores Inc. of Bentonville, Arkansas, owns a controlling stake, has its Game department there. Supermarket chain Shoprite Holdings Ltd., considered a budget grocer at home in South Africa, draws a more-upscale crowd in Nigeria, where most still shop for food in open-air markets.

    The market has drawn U.S. restaurant chains as well. KFC, owned by Louisville, Kentucky-based Yum Brands Inc., has seen a rapid expansion across Nigeria, with 17 restaurants opening across southwest Nigeria. Domino’s Pizza Inc. of Ann Arbor, Michigan, recently had a franchisee open two locations in Lagos as well. Even ice cream seller Cold Stone Creamery of Scottsdale, Arizona, has opened to offer scoops and waffle cones to take the edge off of Nigeria’s sweltering heat.

    At Johnny Rockets, which sits on Lagos’ swanky business-hub Victoria Island across the street from a major hotel frequented by foreigners and dignitaries, the restaurant has a velvet-roped waiting area in the parking lot. Inside, the stainless steel kitchen gleams and customers watch, often with open-mouth fascination, as workers dance each hour to “Hippy Hippy Shake” or another classic song.

    The menu of burgers, fries and onion rings has the Nigerian addition of jollof rice, a spicy staple of tables throughout the country. Others coming in have followed — including Domino’s, which puts it atop a specialty pizza for the Nigerian market. However, most come for a taste of something different.

    That luxury does come at a steep price. A double bacon cheeseburger sells for 3,500 naira, the equivalent of about $22. A vanilla

  • Unilever boosts brand profile

    Unilever boosts brand profile

    Unilever Nigeria Plc has raised its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) profile, using the Close-Up toothpaste brand.

    The brand, in an effort to pull its consumers closer, decided to kick-start a free teeth check campaign to determine the health status of its consumers dentistry in Lagos.

    The campaign enabled consumers to visit The Kots Clinic in Surulere for the free check-up.

    Speaking, Dexter Adeola, Brand Manager, Close-Up, said the company is doing this, because it had shown that only 15 per cent of Nigerians visit dentists yearly.

    He said: “As a leading brand in the paste category, we chose this platform to reach out to Nigerians in need of dental help. This would also serve as an awareness campaign to sensitise people on the need for proper oral care and the importance of regular dental check-ups.”

    On the choice of the location, Adeola said the intention was to strategically reach Nigerians in the two extreme locations of Lagos – Surulere and Magodo.

    On how close-Up was able to achieve the number that turned out, he said that prior to today (last Saturday) the brand had created heavy awareness in these areas and invited many in need of this dental check.

    He went further to say that what informed the initiative was that over the years, Close-Up had given health protection to the teeth and gums of millions of Nigerians.

    “The brand has also worked with health professionals and dentists nationwide to educate Nigerians on the importance of oral care. This free dental check is in line with our commitment to ensure Nigerians have the best solutions and care for their teeth and gums.”

    The Brand Manager pointed out the Close-Up brand has been able to research and find out that accessibility to dentists is extremely low in Nigeria, with only 15 per cent of Nigerians visiting dentist yearly.

    On the impact of the programme, he said, “as Nigeria’s most loved tooth paste brand and have taken in-turn taken it upon ourselves to ensure Nigerians get nothing but the highest level of choice tooth paste and Oral care.

    Every time we reach out like this, the life and joy we give out to Nigerians in need gives the brand extreme fulfillment, while answering the question on the value of the activation on the brand.

    Like one of the beneficiaries, Lucky Agbo, said that he has been having problems with his gums and teeth for about five years, but with the free teeth check he has come to understand how to manage the problem that has made it impossible for him to chew, while promising that the use of Close-Up is now paramount.

    He went further to say that he never believed any company can offer free services to its customers. “This is a good one from Close-Up.” He noted.

    Dr. Sam Obameyi, who checked on Agbo, said the patient has over time had a bacteria that has been destroying part of his teeth, which he called cervical abrassion. “This could be probably the way he has been brushing too hard, using a hard brush and the use of a few chemical agents that may cause the kind of problem the patient had.”

    For another patient, Okwy Akunuba, I had of the free teeth check and decided to come to have my teeth checked, noted that Close-Up is doing a good job by checking on its customers.

     

  • How firms grow the economy

    Over the years, brands and their parent companies

    have succeeded in building the economy of their countries and foreign hosts.

    This is possible because of the profits the brands make, employment opportunities they generate for citizens and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), including provision of electricity, roads, pipe-borne water and manufacturing plants.

    Such is the value they add to natural economy that the companies are really supported by the host countries in period of economic adversity.

    Between 1998 and 2007, Nokia contributed a quarter of Finnish growth rate and in the early part of the 21st century it employed more than 24,000 people. In a country where only natural resources are its vast forests, Nokia succeeded in putting Finland on the world map. It is the first phone manufacturer to own a care centre in Nigeria.

    The company also partnered with the Lagos State government to implement the house-numbering project.

    That is why Nokia users have access to a detailed offline map of Lagos State. They connect with their consumers, sell more with the new improved application that provides detailed offline map. Yet, Nokia has no manufacturing or even assembly plant in Nigeria.

    Among many Chinese companies, Huawei has distinguished itself as a telecommunications’ equipment manufacturer. Today, it is the largest telecoms equipment manufacturer.

    In 2010, the company announced a net profit of over $3 billion. In addition, Huawei runs a training facility in Abuja, where people are being trained. This facility is the first of its kind in West Africa.

    Samsung Group, which has about 80 subsidiaries with Samsung Electronics as its main firm, is responsible for 20 per cent of South Korea’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Samsung has a care centre in Nigeria for the servicing, repair and maintenance of its products. In partnership with the Lagos State government, the company also owns a Technical School in Ikeja, Lagos.

    After training, however, beneficiaries still have to go hunting for jobs. In effect, its impact on alleviating unemployment in the country is minimal. If Samsung had a manufacturing plant, the students would have qualified to work there since they already have the technical-knowhow.

    For instance, Nestlé—the consumer-goods company—contributed 15 per cent of Switzerland’s GDP in 2012. It has a vibrant Nigerian subsidiary with a functional manufacturing plant that employs many Nigerians. It has just opened a multi-billion centre in Agbara, Ogun State.

    Guinness storehouse, the home of Guinness, welcomed over one million visitors last year and served as Ireland’s major international major tourist attraction.

    Guinness Nigeria owns a manufacturing plant in the country and undertakes many CSR projects in the community.

    Coca-Cola has over 90,000 employees across more than 200 countries; it contributes immensely to the economy through the employment of many people and execution of projects spread across communities.

    With Toyota as its spearhead, Japan’s automobile industry contributed 10.5 per cent growth to that country’s economy in 2009. It has more than 300,000 employees with the majority being Japanese. Toyota has no manufacturing or assembling plant in Nigeria, yet it is the top selling automobile in the country. Same goes for Germany’s Mercedes Benz.

    Every year, Nigeria churns out graduates in their thousands from different universities with no assurance of employment. Yet, different foreign brands have turned the country into a cash cow.

    It is projected that the sales of smartphones in Nigeria would hit N900 billion by 2015, yet unemployment is at its all-time high, crime in increasing and government is complacent in tackling the malaise.

    These companies have defended their corporate actions. They are shortage of electricity as a crippling factor. The cumulative effect of the staggering cost of generating power in Nigeria is a substantial increase in the cost of production, which means that the goods produced are more expensive than expected.

    Setting up manufacturing and assembly plants should serve to help cut costs for manufacturers since it would mean a reduction in overhead costs such as transportation.

    But when weighed against the astronomical cost of generating power in Nigeria, locating plants outside the country seems a more logical and cost effective choice. The recent spate of insecurity in the country, has served as a further encumbrance as far as this goal is concerned. Would Nigeria continue to be a dump site for these brands? Who is to blame for this misfortune – the government or the companies?

    A Professor of Economics, Makinwa Olusegun, said: “A nation that would grow must first of all grow its manufacturing sector, encourage foreign investors to build their manufacturing plants in the country. Countries such as India grew like that. If we continue to be consumers and not producers, we would end up being stagnant and may not be able to cope with the level of unemployment that would hit the country in another 10 years.

    “The government should first of all create an enabling environment for local brands to grow, and also for foreign brands and investors; make importation almost impossible and make foreign companies see the cost effectiveness of stabling their either manufacturing or assembly plant in the country.

    “For example, many companies are running to Ghana to produce and then come to Nigeria to sell. They sell 90 per cent of what they produce in Ghana here, that fact is quite unnerving. This would surely continue if it does not get worse if the government doesn’t do anything about it on time to salvage the crisis,” he said.

  • NCC and telcom model that works

    Innovation works. It makes the world go round. It makes the telecoms industry a dynamic one. However, some industries have exposure to innovation while others do not. One of the industries that have benefited from innovation is the telecom. To start with, for the telecom industry, innovation is a matter of life and death. In telecom, changes are deep and numerous. Due to innovation, telcos have migrated from merely selling voice communication per minute.

    Telcos now enable you to have access to their networks through multichannel communication such as voice, email, internet, picture and smart business intelligent apps. So, what is next? What new technology will transform this industrial model? No one knows. Nevertheless, a smart telco is always abreast of innovation. What keeps such a telco ahead of the pack is the keen attention it devotes to research and development [R&D].

    However, one is thing is sure, in the telecom industry, where the product life cycle is extremely short, innovation is a necessity. It is not an option. Research shows that telcos need to develop cutting-edge technologies in order to sustain organization, systemization and efficiency. This helps a telco to react quickly. It helps to evaluate the technology faster. It helps to discuss and integrate as quickly as possible. Furthermore, the whole economy depends on the creation of a dynamic, competitive and innovative infrastructure.

    The marketing eggheads at any telco know that to stand still and do nothing is suicidal. That is why telcos are constantly innovating, constantly transforming, constantly monitoring the way you and I work in order to plug-in through the products they offer. The only concern is how to keep ahead of competitors in a cutthroat environment like Nigeria. Innovation challenges technology convergence and holds the keys to future business growth.One solution seems to be to expand innovation horizons by defying collaboration limits and opening up to technologies that could be acquired externally.

    Now, telcos are thinking globally. They are acting personally. They are managing the technology mix consistently. According to a study conducted by IBM, 80% of telcom decision makers acknowledge the importance of collaborating with a wide range of external partners as 51% of the technologies they develop come from external sources. Think about the new Blackberry Z10 and the big four. MTN, Airtel, Etisalat and Glo, all of them jumped on the train. No one lags behind. The collaborative model works. It works for life. It works for living. It works for business. It works for politics. It works for the telcos.

    However, the collaborative model allows the telcos to throw up innovative services or add-ons and offer the same to the end-users. This implies that the more innovative you are as a telco, the more end-users you would attract to your network with the innovative services. The model coming from Nigerian Communications Commission [NCC] – the telcom regulatory powerhouse – does not align with the collaborative model at all. While the model of collaboration and innovation is a global phenomenon, what NCC is proposing is disharmonious with global best practice.

    What is NCC’s model? Wait for it. The Federal Executive Council [FEC] has on its table a proposal it needs to deliberate on. NCC submitted this proposal. NCC called it Open Access Model for Broadband Penetration. NCC is asking FECto approve it. What does the model seeks? Themodel NCC is bandying in the proposal involves the division of the broadband infrastructure market into three exclusive segments.

    Let us take the segments in turn: Network company: According to NCC, this company would provide the passive layer. The company would design and build the fibre optical network.

    The second segment is Operating Company. This would provideactive layer. It would also operate all active network elements. The third company is Retail Service Providers (RSPs). This would offer services to end-users.Etisalat, Airtel, MTN and Glo found themselves in this segment.The NCC model encapsulates a departure from the traditional method in which asingle operator could own and manage infrastructure and directly sell services to end users, as we have currently. However, what NCC is proposing completely negates what is currently in operation.

    The model proposes that operating companies/active infrastructure providers will buy bulk bandwidth from submarine cable companies. Bandwidth,in turn, would be delivered via optical fibre owned by the passive infrastructure provider/network company; bandwidth would then be resold to RSPs that will offer retail services to the end-users. NCC would issue a fixed number of licenses in the active and passive segments; price caps would be implemented in these segments using cost based pricing; in the RSP segment, multiple licenses will be issued with pricing to end users determined by prevailing market forces; no company will be permitted to operate in more than two segments. Participation in that sense is now optional.

    According to the proposal, the Federal Government, through NCC, would facilitate agreements and engage in dispute resolution between the various stakeholders. Concisely, this is the interpretation of NCC model: the big four would not be allowed to do what they are doing now i.e. own network infrastructure, design and build fibre optical network, provide active layer and operate active network elements or offer services to end-users. The big four would have to choose two segments, as it were. NCC is canvassing that model. Hmm, since there are two sides to every wall, here is another model, or best practice.

    What is obtainable in Europe is this: a model should not create unfair competition or advantage to some licensees over others. It must promote level playing field. Broadband deployment model must avoid duplication of services/infrastructure to avoid waste of resources. However, industry analysts have opined that NCC’sproposal should not focus on infrastructure alone but should also do the following: tackle policies, environmental factors and other critical issues that will enhance the growth and development of the Nigerian broadband industry.These would include but not limited to right of way, protection of existing infrastructure, MTTR, spectrum management issues to facilitate roll out of broadband.

    NCC model is not focusing on the above. Its role in the socio-economic benefits of broadband to individuals and Nigeria should be the focus. NCC needs to promote true competition, open access, transparency and align with national broadband objectives of the Federal Government. Consolidation of industry gains and fostering right environment for development of broadband must be the goal of NCC.Consultations with all relevant industry stakeholders should be done extensively before embarking on such a model, which tends to favour some licensees. NCC’s model should consider existing and future license regimes, and the question should be asked how would it affect existing licensees?

    NCC should focus on how to entrench a predictable regulatory environment, one that is devoid of goal post shifting. Over a decade, the country’s telecom market has witnessed far-reaching changes with the introduction of competition into a sector, which was once a monopoly. NCC needs to sustain this by injecting global best practices and telecom model that works.

     

  • Union of strange bedfellows

    Union of strange bedfellows

    The premium soft drink was the cocktail drink for celebrities that graced the event. The unique synergy reflected the uniqueness of the brand and the concert.

    Described as the combination of the best of music, art, drama and theatre performance, the concert was attended by international fashion icon and co-host of the concert, Kim Kardashian, Nigeria’s top hip hop artists, Nollywood front liners and other notable corporate executives.

    Mr Walter Drenth, Marketing Director Nigerian Breweries Plc, said Fayrouz is a premium and stylish soft drink that often looks out for opportunities to treat its consumers to exciting experiences. “We thought it worthwhile to partner with Darey Art Alade on this event which is premium, stylish and extra ordinary – values which are associated with Fayrouz. The show has brought a new dimension to the music and entertainment industry. It is a marriage of two different and unconventional brands which has offered maximum satisfaction to consumers and guests.

    Nnenna Ifeibigh-Hemeson, Senior Brand Manager, Fayrouz and Climax, said Nigerian Breweries Plc as a corporate brand and Fayrouz, as a product brand, do not get involved in anything that is not unique and impacting. “Fayrouz is different, original and unique; it’s in a class of its own.

    The same goes for the concert that combines, “Circque du Soleil theatrics and music to present a different kind of experience in this part of the World, it shares great attributes and values with the Fayrouz brand that was why we decided to partner Darey on the show. It is indeed a lifelong experience and we are excited to have been part of it”.

    To ensure that its consumers are not left out, the brand provided consumers the opportunity to witness the show live with platinum tickets to the concert which were won through a live radio show on UNILAG FM. The winners praised the brand for giving them an exciting and premium experience.

    Meanwhile, after what can be described as one of the greatest musical show in Nigeria, the spectacular ‘Love…like a Movie’ musical concert which took place a few weeks ago has continued to attract encomiums from Nigerians. Fayrouz, a premium soft drink from the stables of Nigerian Breweries Plc have also continued to receive commendations as a result of the brand’s synergy with the organisers of the concert.

    It would be recalled that the premium soft drink was served as the cocktail drink for the celebrities that graced the exciting event. The unique synergy – to the applause of the audience – brought the uniqueness of the brand and the concert to the fore.

    Ms. Busola Cole, a staff of one of the new generation banks, who was present at the concert, described Fayrouz’s partnership with the concert, as a good match. An ardent Fayrouz drinker, she said: “Fayrouz has always been my favourite soft drink brand. I love its rich taste and it was not out of place to see it as the preferred cocktail drink for the event.”

    Seni Lawal, a youth corps’ member serving in Lagos, stated that Fayrouz’s sponsorship of the event is in sync with what the brand stands for. In her words “everybody knows Fayrouz is a premium drink and Darey Art Alade, is a celebrated RnB artiste, their coming together is a synergy of two perfect heavy weights in their different categories and we the fans were the ultimate beneficiaries.”

    To ensure that its consumers are not left out, the Fayrouz brand provided consumers the opportunity to witness the show live with platinum tickets to the concert which were won through a live radio show on UNILAG FM, Lagos. The winners com-mended the brand for giving them an exciting and premium experience.

    One of the winners of the Fayrouz ticket, Oluremi Henix, said it was an honour to win the ticket to the biggest concert especially at a time of celebration of love courtesy of the finest and premium drink Fayrouz. “I am happy to have witnessed the exciting time and the unique creativity of Darey Art Alade.”

    Another winner, Ishola Daniel, said “this is a moment I will live to remember, because Fayrouz has given me an opportunity to meet Nigeria’ biggest stars. Fayrouz is truly sharing love at this time and I say a very big thank you for the experience. I encourage consumers out there to support the brand.”

    The show kicked off with the appearance of the much publicised American reality TV host, Kim Kadarshian. Darey was ably backed up by four of Nigeria’s greatest vocalists Banky W, Timi Dakolo, Praiz and Tolu (of the Project Fame Season 3).

    The show also brought to the fore the innovative use of technology such as never been seen before anywhere in this part of world. The audience watched in amazement as the surprises kept coming. From the beginning to the end of the ‘movie’, the love story continued with different songs including Endless Love, A whole new world and a few others which contributed to the build-up of the story until it was wrapped up with the remix of Asiko, one of Darey’s smash hit songs.

    Walter Drenth, Marketing Director Nigerian Breweries Plc, disclosed that Fayrouz is a premium and stylish soft drink that often looks out for opportunities to treat its consumers to exciting experiences.”We thought it worthwhile to partner with Darey on this event which is premium, stylish and extra ordinary – values which are associated with Fayrouz. The show has brought a new dimension to the music and entertainment industry in Nigeria. It is a marriage of two different and unconventional brands, which has offered maximum satisfaction to consumers and guests,” Drenth said.

    Nnenna Ifeibigh-Hemeson, Senior Brand Manager, Fayrouz and Climax, said “Fayrouz is different, original and unique; it’s in a class of its own. The same goes for the concert that combines Circque du Soleil theatrics and music to present a different kind of experience in this part of the world”It shares great attributes and values with the Fayrouz brand that was why we decided to partner Darey on the show. It is indeed a lifelong experience and we are excited to have been part of it,” Ifeibigh-Hemeson enthused.

    Commenting on the show, the producer, Darey Art Alade, disclosed that they were able to make a new statement that offers music lovers the best of music, art, drama and dance with live performances. He thanked his friends who made appearances; “2face, 9ice, Iyanya, Timi Dakolo, Praiz, Waje” and others who combined with ‘Circque du Soleil an’ extreme theatre. “These are guys using sand to draw what I am singing. Our normal concept is just to come on stage, either lip-synching or jumping up and down with dancers when the CD you would release starts playing; what we have been able to bring to the fore is different and unique,” he added.

  • Firm kicks off national immunisation plus days

    In accordance with its vision to promote the health and wellbeing of the Nigerian child, MultiPro Enterprises Limited, makers of Hypo Super Bleach, has once again partnered with the Lagos State Ministry of Health in this year’s Polio Immunisation Plus Days campaign which was flagged off at Ipaja Mini Stadium, Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA) recently.

    The National Immunisation Plus Days (NIPDs) campaign, which has been carried out in Nigeria since 2006, serves as one of the core strategies for improving immunisation activities in Nigeria. This would be done by combining the usage of the fixed posts, house-to-house and transit teams for the delivery of multiple antigens (e.g. BCG, OPV, Pentavalent , Measles, Yellow Fever, HBV, etc.) on the days set aside for mass campaign. The immunisation exercise would take place from 2nd to 5th March, 2013.

    Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Senior Sales Manager, MultiPro Enterprises Limited, Mr Jude Nzeata, said the National Immunisation Plus Days is an opportunity for Hypo to fulfil its social responsibility to the society. He also emphasised the fact that ensuring the good health and hygiene of the people is one of the core concerns of the organisation.

    “The National Immunisation Plus Days provides us with the platform to reach millions of children who are in dire need of a proper health care services. In line with this we have made millions of Hypo Bleach sachets available for distribution both here at the flag off ceremony and at every Primary Health Centre within the 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs through the course of the programme and also delivering proper counsel about the importance of immunisation and hygiene” he added.

     

     

     

    Nzeata continued in his remarks by appealing to parents especially mothers to take their wards between the ages of 0 to 5 years to the Primary Health Care Centres and Clinics in the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) so that they can be immunised against polio and other diseases.

    He further revealed that the decision to partner with the Lagos State Ministry of Health was another step in the fulfillment of Hypo’s continued desire to contribute to the realization of a clean and healthy nation which started with the introduction of affordable bleach for all and also affirmed that this would definitely not be the last partnership between the company and the Lagos State Ministry of Health because a lot still has to be done to further improve the level of health care services in the country.

    Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Health, the Deputy Director and Head of Department, Family Health and Nutrition, Dr. Folashade Oludara commended Hypo for supporting the National Immunisation Plus Days program. She said the Ministry has enjoyed their support for other programs and hopes the partnership continues.

    “Once again, Hypo has proved to be a very reliable partner as they have not only helped to produce the flyers and banners for the five day Immunisation exercise but have also donated millions of Hypo products to be given to mothers who bring their child for immunisation in all the locations where the officials are present” she said

  • LG Nexus 4 makes grand entry

    LG Nexus 4 makes grand entry

    Nigerian smartphone users are in for a swell time with the introduction of

    the LG Nexus 4 smartphone into the Nigerian market by LG Electronics, a global leader in mobile communications.

    The Nexus 4 Smartphone which comes with exciting features such as the Android Jelly Bean Operating System (OS), an 8 Mega Pixel camera, 16 GB internal Memory capacity, 2GB of RAM as well as a 2,100 mAh Li-polymer battery has been highly rated by phone pundits. The device in a massive way solidifies LG’s position as a brand to be reckoned with in the global smartphone market.

    Commenting on this topical feat in setting the pace in the Smartphone market, the marketing manager, Mobile Communications, LG Electronics, Mrs. Bukola Arabome, said: “LG Nexus 4 E960 has an excellent display with a fast processor and Graphic Processing unit; the Android jelly Bean 4.2 brings some welcome new features that puts the best of Google in the hands of users.

    Weighing a mere 139g, the LG Nexus 4 employs LCD display technology with a screen resolution of 1280 x 768 pixels, 320 ppi; and a16M colours display with dimensions of 133.9 x 68.7 x 9.1mm. With the uniquely designed display photos and videos come to life with stunning clarity and crisp, natural colour. The gently-curved glass edges allow user’s finger to slide smoothly on and off the 4.7-inch screen, while Zerogap Touch technology allows the user to practically touch the pixels- with the scratch-resistant corning Gorilla glass2 providing the needed protection. The thoughtfully designed hardware displays a quality of finish that can compete with the best rival smartphones.

    For camera, there is an 8-megapixel rear camera and 1.3-megapixel front camera. Users are going to find this feature very interesting as it is so easy to create a panorama with the device. Users will be able to capture 360-degree Panorama directly from their camera app. Once they have a photo to share, they can opt to share their Panorama on Google maps and Google +.

    LG E960 which has proven to be a global hit since its introduction in other climes features a cutting-edge 1.5 GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 processor to give users the power speed they require to stay ahead. Users will also be able to zip round the web, effortlessly switch between multiple apps without ever missing a beat as well as experience rich 3D graphics and gameplay. The application quality and variety of Nexus 4 outruns those of the other smartphones, allowing users to experience wider variety of features with more user-friendly and considerate settings.

    LG Nexus 4 is a powerful unlocked Smartphone with a beautiful minimalist design and fast performance. It wins on internal performance and user experience. The Korean giant, LG Electronics strategically designed and manufactured the E960 in partnership with Google. The introduction of this high-end phone is informed by the company’s quest to achieve its primal objective of meeting the needs of its esteemed consumers.

    Regarding display, the large 4.7-inch screen is crisp, detailed and beautiful. NFC (Near Field Communication) and wireless charging show LG pushing new platforms forward. Latest Android, directly from Google, with no delays from carriers or hardware makers guarantees speed and high performance.

    LG Nexus 4 is a rare device with a great battery life; with the 2100mAh battery, it features 15 hours of talk time and 390 hours of maximum standby time.

    Over all, LG E960 has a distinct advantage over the competition which is why many tech savvy individuals consider the device to be worth investing in. all over the world, people are joining the Nexus 4 brigade because of the amazing features and functions of the Smartphone.

    LG Mobile has always been a game changer; the company has good form when it comes to innovation. In recent times it has churned out winning mobile devices such as the BL40, the Shine and the Chocolate.

    With the introduction of the LG Nexus 4, LG has once more demonstrated that it is committed to providing consumers with mobile devices that enable empower them in amasing ways that enable them enjoy everyday life and achieve their personal goals.

     

  • Promasidor announces judges for Quill Awards

    Promasidor announces judges for Quill Awards

    Promasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of Cowbell Milk, has announced the appointment of five distinguished professionals as judges for its Quill Awards.

    The awards is a platform to reward journalists for dedicated news reportage on industry, education, corporate social responsibility and nutrition issues all year round.

    The awards cover five categories among which are the Brand Advocate of the year, Best Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report of the year, Most Educative Report of the year, Best Report on Nutrition and the Best Photo Story of the year.

    Mr Andrew Enahoro, Head of Legal and Public Relations of the company said the judges were carefully chosen because of the regard the company attached to the awards.

    He listed the judges as Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, a veteran journalist who will serve as chairman of the panel; Professor Emevwo Biakolo, Dean of School of Media and Communication of the Pan African University (PAU); Barrister Jide Ologun, Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Lagos Chapter; Kadaria Ahmed, former editor of 234 Next, and Kelechi Obi Amadi, a renowned international painter and photographer.

    Ambassador Cole, Special Adviser to The Guardian since 2002 and Delegate to the United Nations and the African Union (1976, 1989, 1989, and 1990) obtained a Masters Degree in History and Political Science from University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand and in 1969 bagged a Ph.D from   Stephen Berhens Cohen College, Cambridge.

    Professor Biakolo graduated from the University of Ibadan in 1978 where he studied literature, philosophy and classics as a Federal scholar. He completed his M.A. in 1984, graduating at the top of his class and was awarded a doctorate in 1988.

    He later joined the editorial board of The Guardian and wrote a weekly column which commanded very wide following in Nigeria. Besides social and political questions, he was especially concerned with family issues in his writing.

    Jide Ologun, a principal solicitor at Jide Ologun & Co is the chairman of the Lagos chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

    Kadaria Ahmed, an influential journalist, is a co – founder of Reinvent Media Limited and formerly senior producer with British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) between 1996 and 2004. She was also the editor of the now defunct, 234next newspaper in Lagos.

    Kelechi Amadi is a dexterous painter, photographer and lawyer, but however things took a turn when his passion for the arts led him to pursue a career in photography and painting.

     

  • Let’s play ball

    What is your favourite sport? Is it baseball, handball, basketball, softball or football?  Whatever it is, there are about 152 million local football coaches in Nigeria; but some of them have never stepped on a football pitch. With a population of 152 million, every Nigerian is a coach. Every Nigerian knows which player is right for the national football team. That fact was on display recently when the national football team coach, Stephen Keshi left some established international football stars out of the team that competed and won Afcon 2013 in South Africa.

    Several football aficionados wanted to know why Osaze Odemwingie, Taye Taiwo, Obafemi Martins, et al were not part of the party. They would not understand why Keshi picked local talents ahead of international stars. ‘Osaze plays and scores for his week in week out’. ‘Martins has rediscovered his form’. They chorused. They were technical in their excuses.  They were also vociferous in their queries.

    However, when the local talents shined like diamonds at the tournament, every armchair critic and untested football coach was silent. Rather, they turned new leaves. They sang the praises of Keshi. “Our football messiah has finally arrived’. ‘Our own Guardiola has come’. They sang. Nigerians are so passionate about football. They are also unforgiving. Had Keshi dropped the ball in South Africa, his head would have been chopped off.

    However, Keshi kept the ball. The team won. That is why GEJ has suddenly become the number supporter of the Super Eagles. He showed this recently when he spoke with the players, one on one, via Skype before the match involving Ivory Coast which Super Eagles won by 2-1. Since Nigerians love football that much, so let us play football. You are welcome to the final of the tournament. The score line is still goalless. Now, Victor Ikpeba passes the ball to Kanu Nwankwo. Kanu passes to Austin Okocha. Okocha dribbles his opponent with finesse.

    His pass locates Kanu. He controls the ball nicely. He looks for his man, dribbles onrushing Cameroonian player and gives a through pass to the number 9 shirt. The opponent defence clear the ball into touch. A throw-in for the Super Eagles. Oh, tick-tock, the time is ticking away. Any time now, the centre referee would blow the final whistle and the two teams would settle for the penalty shootout. Having played both halves and failed to find the back of the net, the teams are now in the injury time of the second half of the extra time. After this, we would be in for a tense moment. That is it. The referee has blown the final whistle.

    In a short while, we would see which country would lift the Afcon 2000. Would it be Nigeria or Cameroun? The outcome of this penalty shootout would determine that. Meanwhile, the teams have selected the five players who would take the spot kicks. The referee picks up the ball. He is ready. He approaches the goalpost. What is he doing? He checks his time. He walks to the goalpost, checks the net by pulling it to ensure there is no loophole, satisfied; he returns to the 16-yard box and places the ball on the penalty spot.

    Goal keep Vincent Enyeama is in goal for Nigeria. The skipper of the Cameroonian is also ready to take the first kick. Would he score the first penalty kick? Would Enyeama save the day? Aaah, it is a goal. He scores. It is said that the skipper of the Cameroonian has never missed a penalty kick. He is such a brilliant football. Now, the score line is 4-3. Having missed one penalty apiece, if Nigeria scores now, the penalty kicks would be continued until a team misses.

    Now, it is Nigeria’s turn. Who would take the kick for Nigeria? It is Victor Ikpeba. Give us this day! Give us this day! The spectator sings. Will he heed their call? His name is Victor. Would he give Nigeria victory today? Would be a true victor? What does he do? He steps forward. He is so sure of his kick. He has terrorised the defense line of the Cameroonians. Would he give Nigeria this day? He goes for the ball. He measures his angle. The Cameroonian goalkeeper has no answer for the shot. Oh, his shot hits the crossbar. The Nigerian supporters are stunned.

    The Super Eagles is in disarray. There is no one to console the team. Meanwhile, the Indomitable Lion of Cameroon are running about the field, happy, elated. This is a tale of two countries. One is mourning a loss; the other is celebrating a victory. Oh! What a day! What a story! What a night! Nigeria has lost again. Super Eagles has let the country down again. How can victory be so close, yet so far? How can you had victory in your grasp this moment, and the next it is gone? How a man’s action can bring so much pain and anguish to a nation? Ikpeba watches in disbelieve: He is close to tears. He cannot believe his luck. In agony, he places his hands on his head. He has let Nigerians down. He has missed his kick. He missed his kick when it mattered most.

    When Ikpeba’s kick hits the cross bar and bounces on the goal line, did it cross the goal line or not? No one is sure. The referee is not sure. The linesman is not sure. Even Ikpeba is not sure. Millions of Nigerians and other nationals watching on television are not sure. However, one thing is sure; Nigeria has lost the final of Afcon 2000 to Cameroon. The Cameroonians have won the cup by 4-3. Nigeria was beaten finalists in 1984, 1988, 1990 and in 2000. This is the fourth consecutive time Nigeria would be coming second in the Afcon tournaments.

    However, Ikpeba took that spot kick in 2000. In 2013, thirteen years afterwards, no one is still sure if that ball actually crossed the goal line. Was it a goal? No one is certain. To put an end to this guesswork and uncertainty, remove ugly incident like that, which could drag the beautiful game of football into disrepute, Federation of International Football Association [Fifa] did successfully implement GLT at the FIFA Club World Cup in Japan in December 2012. GLT would also come to the party at the Confederations Cup and World Cup. Both competitions would occur in Brazil in 2013 and 2014 respectively.

    It is instructive to note that it is not because of Ikpeba’s ‘goal’ that led to Fifa’s acceptance of GLT technology. It was that and several similar incident, which included a clear goal by England’s Frank Lampard at the 2010 World Cup against Germany. The Lampard incident pushed Fifa to experiment with the technology. Before reaching this stage, however, several test matches had been played to ascertain the practicability of GLT. What this means is that GLT would have influence on the outcome of a football match. The match officials would accept the readings of GLT in a match situation.

    The GLT, Hawk-Eye and GoalRef, have both gone through rigorous laboratory and field tests in extreme heat, cold, humidity and heavy rain. Each system can send an immediate message to a watch worn by match officials within a second of the ball crossing the goal line. Both firms have also taken out insurance on the instruction of Fifa to ensure the governing body will not face costly lawsuits if a goal is not spotted or if players are injured should they collide with the equipment.

    The English Premier League is pressing ahead with its £6 million drive towards the full installation of GLT for the start of next season. The companies that have developed the Hawk-Eye and GoalRef systems granted licenses by Fifa to install them worldwide, and the Premier League is eager to introduce the technology for the 2013-14 campaign. It is believed to cost around £300,000 per ground to install a system and all 20 Premier League clubs will have to have the facility operational by August.

    It is hoped that by the time the broadcast right is signed and sealed, fans would be able to see the replays of the decisions that GLT passes to the match officials. This is a unique way technology is adding beauty to the game of football. With the use of GLT, the ghosts of Ikpeba’s and Lampard’s goals would finally find rest, as their spirits would not be invoked again with similar action or story-telling. That way, three things would happen: GLT would focus on its goal, you would enjoy the beautiful game, while the players would play ball.