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  • Sirius Africa ignites creative revolution with innovative equity financing

    Sirius Africa ignites creative revolution with innovative equity financing

    Sirius Africa, a pioneering Multi Channel Network with more than a decade of dedication to Africa’s creative industries, is embarking on a mission to reshape the financial landscape for creative entrepreneurs. While Africa’s creative sectors hold immense potential, they have long grappled with a significant challenge – the absence of structured equity financing institutions.

    Despite the thriving creative landscape, accessing funding opportunities has been a formidable barrier, forcing many creatives to rely on debt financing due to a lack of the required collateral for traditional loans. Importantly, this challenge is not attributable to banks but rather the result of inadequate industry-specific data. Sirius Africa is ushering in a groundbreaking era with its innovative approach, leveraging blockchain technology to provide a lifeline for creatives seeking more accessible equity financing.

    Founder CEO, Dazi Ezekiel-Zang, said :”The primary hurdle faced by Africa’s creative industries is the data gap. Our software acts as a beacon of hope, making equity financing far more accessible. The current financial landscape lacks efficient mechanisms to distribute, track, and mitigate risks associated with equity financing. This disproportionately affects creative entrepreneurs who struggle to secure funding due to banks’ inability to navigate the unique dynamics of our industry.”

    He added: “Our innovative blockchain software provides a secure, transparent, and accessible platform for equity financing distribution. Harnessing blockchain’s inherent characteristics, we establish a system that ensures fair resource distribution, minimizes risks, and fosters collaboration. This technology-driven approach directly addresses limited funding opportunities, paving the way for a more vibrant and sustainable creative ecosystem in Africa.”

    Read Also: AFD, NBA Africa unveil refurbished b’court in Lagos

    Beyond its financing innovation, Sirius Africa is committed to raising awareness and taking action within the Creative Industry. The organization is at the forefront of infusing eco-friendly practices into the creative industry for a sustainable future.

    Sirius Africa is rewriting the narrative of creative industries through blockchain technology. Their mission is transformative: to tackle age-old challenges rooted in data deficiency. The absence of comprehensive data has long hindered structured equity financing, leaving untapped potential within countless creative projects and talents.

    Their answer to this challenge is blockchain technology, a cutting-edge, blockchain-driven platform that reimagines data gathering, tracking, and utilization. Through Sirius Africa’s platform, funded creators become part of a network that continuously aggregates data on collaborations, expenditures, and outcomes. This empowers creators with not only access to equity finance but also real-time insights into their collaborators.

  • Leading thought leaders in project management and global devt

    Leading thought leaders in project management and global devt

    They have established themselves as leading thinkers in project management cum global development. They are bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world project execution. Their works influence policymakers, project managers, and scholars, offering new insights into how to make major projects more successful and sustainable, writes IBRAHIM ADAM.

    Lavagnon Ika

    Lavagnon Ika is a Canadian project management scholar, thought leader, and author, originally from Benin. He serves as a Professor of Project Management at the Telfer School of Management, University of Ottawa, where he also directs the Major Projects Observatory and leads the MSc in Management programme. Additionally, he holds the title of Extraordinary Professor at the University of Pretoria.
    Ika is widely recognised for his research on why large-scale projects struggle with cost overruns and benefit shortfalls, as well as how to improve their long-term success. His work has significantly shaped academic and policy discussions on project effectiveness, particularly in the realms of major infrastructure, strategy implementation, and global development projects. He has also contributed extensively to project management theory and practice in Africa.
    His accomplishments include winning the Global Research Award twice from the International Project Management Association (IPMA).
    Ika earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Institut National d’Économie (Benin) in 1997. He moved to Canada in 1998, completing an MSc in Project Management at Université du Québec à Hull (2001). In 2011, he obtained a Ph.D. in Business Administration from Université du Québec à Montréal, as part of a joint doctoral program with McGill, Concordia, and HEC Montréal. His doctoral research focused on the success factors of World Bank-funded projects.
    Ika’s academic journey began in 2001 as a part-time professor at Université du Québec, where he later became an Associate Professor. He then joined the University of Ottawa’s Telfer School of Management, progressing from Assistant Professor to Full Professor of Project Management in 2019. In 2020, he established the Major Projects Observatory, aiming to improve the understanding of large-scale project performance.
    One of Ika’s core research areas examines why large-scale projects exceed budgets and fail to deliver expected benefits. His work builds on Daniel Kahneman’s Planning Fallacy and Albert Hirschman’s Hiding Hand principle, exploring the role of biases, errors, and poor management in project failures.

    Through years of dedication and scholarly pursuit, Ika carved a path of excellence, earning recognition on the global stage.
    In 2017, Ika was honored with the Global Research Award from the International Project Management Association, a testament to groundbreaking contributions in the field. That same year, the Emerald Outstanding Project Management Paper Award recognized a research work that stood apart, illuminating new insights in project management.
    The accolades continued. In 2021, Ika was named a Fellow of the World Bank, a distinction reserved for thought leaders shaping global development. That year also brought the Telfer’s Established Researcher Award from the Telfer School of Management, acknowledging a profound impact on academia and research.
    In 2022, Ika once again earned the Global Research Award, reaffirming a legacy of excellence. The year also marked a new milestone—being named a Carnegie African Diaspora Fellow, a role that reflected a commitment to knowledge exchange and collaboration across continents.
    With each honour, Ika’s influence grew, leaving an enduring mark on research, education, and the broader field of project management.

    Jennifer Whyte

    Jennifer Whyte is a distinguished academic and industry leader in project management and infrastructure innovation. She serves as the Director of the John Grill Institute for Project Leadership and Head of the School of Project Management at the University of Sydney, Australia. Her work focuses on enhancing how projects are conceived, structured, delivered, and optimized to maximize value for industry, government, and policymakers. She has led pioneering research in systems integration, construction transformation, and project analytics.
    She also holds a Professorship in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Imperial College London, where she previously served as Director of the Centre for Systems Engineering and Innovation. This center advances the role of systems engineering and digital innovation in large-scale infrastructure projects. Recognized as a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers, she formerly held the Laing O’Rourke and Royal Academy of Engineering Chair in Systems Integration (2015–2021).
    Whyte earned a BA from the University of Cambridge in 1994 and a PhD from Loughborough University in 2000.
    Joining the University of Sydney in 2021, Whyte continues to contribute to Imperial College London through a fractional appointment. Before her role at Sydney, she was Co-Director of the Centre for Systems Engineering and Innovation at Imperial College London, leading the development of advanced systems engineering tools for infrastructure.
    Earlier in her career, she was a professor at the University of Reading, where she founded the Design Innovation Research Centre in 2010 with £1.25 million in funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). She also held an Advanced Institute of Management Fellowship and served as a Senior Research Fellow at Imperial College Business School from 2003 to 2007. Before that, she worked at the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) at the University of Sussex, contributing to projects on design quality indicators.
    Whyte is actively involved in shaping industry policy and research. She is a member of the UK’s Construction Leadership Council, advises the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund’s ‘Transforming Construction’ board, and leads a strategic theme in the Alan Turing Institute/Lloyd’s Register Foundation’s Data-Centric Engineering Programme. In 2018, she provided expert testimony to the House of Lords Select Committee on Science and Technology regarding offsite construction. She has also contributed to the World Economic Forum’s Engineering and Construction Transformation Map and serves on the Institution of Civil Engineers’ Digital Transformation Panel. Previously, she was part of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Research and Innovation Group.
    Whyte has authored over 40 journal papers, with work published in Research Policy, the International Journal of Project Management, Organization Studies, Design Studies, and Automation in Construction. In 2018, she co-authored the second edition of Virtual Reality and the Built Environment with Dragana Nikolić.

    Ifeanyi Michael Okafor

    Ifeanyi Michael Okafor is a seasoned financial strategist and project management expert with a wealth of experience in the banking and engineering sectors. With a career spanning over 15 years, Okafor has demonstrated a keen ability to drive strategic initiatives, optimize resource allocation, and lead cross-functional teams to success.

    Since August 2018, Okafor, a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI), has served as a Portfolio Manager at the Central Bank of Nigeria, where he has been instrumental in overseeing high-value programs and ensuring their alignment with organisational objectives. His expertise in financial regulations, strategic planning, project execution and stakeholder management has enabled him to successfully manage multi-million-dollar projects, including a $50 million housing initiative aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s housing finance system and providing skill acquisition opportunities for youth artisans.

    As a key contributor to the bank’s Enterprise Strategy Management Solution (ESMS), Okafor spearheaded initiatives that resulted in a 10% cost reduction. His leadership in campaign strategies boosted awareness by 45%, while his engineering of a Career Management Framework drove a remarkable 40% increase in productivity.

    Okafor also served as a Strategy Analyst at the Central Bank of Nigeria from 2015 to 2018, where he played a crucial role in formulating and evaluating strategic plans. His ability to align business units with enterprise objectives ensured optimal resource distribution and enhanced overall efficiency. Notably, his strategic insights led to a 30% increase in private sector investment and substantial cost savings in staff and pensioner healthcare coverage.

    Between 2012 and 2015, Okafor demonstrated his project management acumen as a Project Manager at the Central Bank of Nigeria. Overseeing budgets exceeding $200 million, he directed branch rehabilitation initiatives and facilitated the launch of new bank branches across multiple regions. His ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks ensured compliance and the successful execution of key infrastructure projects.

    Okafor’s career journey began in engineering, where he honed his analytical and problem-solving skills. From 2007 to 2009, he held various engineering roles, including Assistant Electrical Engineer at Charnel Engineering Co. Ltd. and Assistant Project Engineer at AVO Consultants. His technical expertise in telecommunications, infrastructure development, and cost estimation provided a solid foundation for his transition into financial strategy and project management.

    Beyond his professional achievements, Okafor is recognised for his ability to foster collaboration among stakeholders, anticipate market trends, and develop strategic frameworks that drive economic growth. His experience working with international organizations such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank further underscores his influence in the global financial landscape.

    With a distinguished career marked by innovation, efficiency, and transformative leadership, Okafor continues to be a driving force in the banking and financial sector, shaping policies and projects that leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s economic development.

    Okafor holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical/Electronic from Enugu State University of Science & Technology, Nigeria and a Master of Science (MSc) in Project Management from Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK.

    He is also a certified expert in project management and performance improvement, holding the professional certifications in Project Management Professional (PMP), PRINCE2® Foundation, Professional Scrum Master (PSM1), Certified KPI Professional and Certified Performance Improvement Professional

    Darren Dalcher
    Darren Dalcher is a distinguished British academic and expert in strategic project management. He currently serves as a Professor at Lancaster University Management School and is the Director of the National Centre for Project Management (NCPM) in the UK.
    Dalcher holds a PhD in Software Engineering from King’s College London.
    With a career dedicated to advancing project management, Dalcher has played a pivotal role in shaping the field through research, education, and professional development. He is a sought-after speaker, frequently delivering keynote addresses and workshops at international conferences such as PMexpo and the BIS conference.
    In addition to his academic work, he serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Software: Evolution and Process and oversees the Routledge Frontiers in Project Management series. He also played a key role as the Academic Advisor and Editor for the 7th Edition of the APM Body of Knowledge, a foundational resource in project management.
    Dalcher has earned numerous accolades and memberships in prestigious organizations, reflecting his influence in the field: Honorary Fellow of the Association for Project Management (APM) for his exceptional contributions; Chartered Fellow of the British Computer Society.
    Chartered IT Professional (CITP); Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute and the Royal Society of Arts; Senior Member of IEEE and Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy; Active member of leading professional organizations, including INCOSE, the Project Management Institute (PMI), the Academy of Management, and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM); Member of the PMI Advisory Board, responsible for the David I. Cleland Project Management Award; Member of the APM Professional Development Board.
    He was named Academic of the Year by Project Magazine, and recognised as one of the top 10 influencers in project management by APM in 2008.
    Dalcher has authored and edited multiple influential books on project management, technology, and leadership, including: Successful IT Projects (2007), Advances in Project Management: Narrated Journeys in Uncharted Territory (2016), Further Advances in Project Management: Guided Exploration in Unfamiliar Landscapes (2017), The Evolution of Project Management Practice: From Programmes and Contracts to Benefits and Change (2017), Managing Projects in a World of People, Strategy and Change (2018), APM Body of Knowledge, 7th Edition (2018)
    Leading the Project Revolution: Reframing the Human Dynamics of Successful Projects (2019), Rethinking Project Management for a Dynamic and Digital World (2022).
    Dalcher’s work continues to shape the discipline of project management, bridging the gap between theory and practice in an ever-evolving professional landscape.

    Alexander Laufer

    Alexander Laufer stands at the helm of the Consortium for Project Leadership at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, a guiding force in the evolution of project management. Renowned for his groundbreaking work in developing a practice-based theory, he has sought to harness the tacit knowledge of seasoned professionals, drawing wisdom from the successes of thriving organizations. His journey began in the realm of construction, where, for eight years, he immersed himself in the intricacies of design and execution. Yet, his thirst for deeper understanding led him to pursue a doctorate in Civil Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin, a turning point that expanded his vision beyond the confines of construction.

    Venturing into diverse industries, Laufer dedicated his research and consultancy efforts to organizations such as AT&T, Motorola, Procter & Gamble, Skanska, and the United States Air Force. He became a strong advocate for shedding conventional project management paradigms, urging professionals to “unlearn” rigid methodologies in favor of dynamic, adaptable approaches suited to the ever-changing landscape of modern business. His influence extended into academia, where he shaped minds at institutions including North Carolina State University, the University of Maryland, and Columbia University, where he led the Center of Project Leadership. At the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, he held a distinguished professorship and served as Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering. Now, as a leader at the University of Wisconsin, he continues to shape the future of project leadership.

    Beyond the classroom and the boardroom, Laufer’s voice has resonated in the editorial world. He served as editor-in-chief of NASA’s ASK Magazine and contributed to the NASA Academy of Program and Project Leadership as an advisory board member. Currently, he lends his expertise as associate editor for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the IEEE Engineering Management Review and as a member of the editorial review board of the Project Management Institute’s prestigious journal.

    His contributions to the field extend beyond discourse; they are etched into the pages of six influential books and numerous research articles. Through his writing, he captures the essence of project leadership, weaving together real-world stories to illuminate new principles and practices. In Simultaneous Management (1997), he explores the delicate balance between stability and flexibility, proactive and reactive behaviors, and formal and informal processes—challenging the restrictive notion of “either-or” and embracing the power of “and.” His co-authored Project Management Success Stories (2000) asserts that true success lies in the fusion of leadership and management. Breaking the Code of Project Management (2009) critiques the rigid, one-size-fits-all approach, advocating instead for adaptable strategies tailored to the unique nature of each project. In Mastering the Leadership Role in Project Management (2012), he confronts the inevitability of unexpected events, emphasizing that while careful planning can mitigate many disruptions, true mastery lies in the ability to respond effectively to the unforeseen.

    Laufer’s body of work serves as both a challenge to outdated methodologies and a beacon for those seeking to navigate the complex, unpredictable world of project leadership. Whether in academia, industry, or the written word, his contributions continue to shape the discipline, inspiring a new generation of project leaders to embrace flexibility, innovation, and the wisdom found in real-world experience.

  • Recover Accidentally Deleted Vacation Pictures from Camera with Stellar Photo Recovery

    Recover Accidentally Deleted Vacation Pictures from Camera with Stellar Photo Recovery

    Have you ever experienced the heart-wrenching moment of realizing that you accidentally deleted your precious vacation pictures from your camera? If you have, you know that sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach. Those pictures captured the beautiful moments of your trip, the smiles, the breathtaking landscapes, and the memories you cherished. Fortunately, there’s a solution to this predicament – Stellar Photo Recovery. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of recovering accidentally deleted vacation pictures from your camera using Stellar Photo Recovery, a powerful and reliable photo recovery software designed for photo recovery.

    Understanding the Importance of Photo Recovery

    Before we dive into the specifics of using Stellar Photo Recovery, let’s take a moment to understand why photo recovery is crucial. Vacation pictures are not just images; they are memories frozen in time. Losing them can be devastating, as you can’t recreate those special moments. Whether it’s a family trip, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, your vacation photos hold sentimental value.

    Accidental deletion can happen to anyone, and it’s surprisingly common. You might have deleted the pictures while trying to free up storage space, or perhaps you hit the wrong button in a hurry. Regardless of how it happened, it’s essential to have a reliable solution to recover these lost treasures.

    Introducing Stellar Photo Recovery

    Stellar Photo Recovery is a trusted and powerful software solution designed to help you recover lost or deleted photos and multimedia files from a variety of storage devices, including digital cameras, memory cards, hard drives, and more. With its user-friendly interface and advanced recovery algorithms, Stellar Photo Recovery makes the process of retrieving your vacation pictures a breeze.

    Now, let’s walk through the steps to recover accidentally deleted vacation pictures using Stellar Photo Recovery.

    Step 1: Download and Install Stellar Photo Recovery

    The first step in recovering your vacation pictures is to download and install Stellar Photo Recovery on your computer. You can easily find the software on the official Stellar website. Make sure to choose the appropriate version for your operating system, whether it’s Windows or macOS.

    Once the download is complete, follow the installation instructions provided by the software. It’s a straightforward process that typically involves selecting your preferred installation location and creating desktop shortcuts for easy access.

    Step 2: Connect Your Camera or Memory Card

    After successfully installing Stellar Photo Recovery, the next step is to connect your camera or memory card to your computer. You can use a card reader or connect your camera directly using a USB cable. Ensure that your camera or memory card is recognized by your computer.

    Step 3: Launch Stellar Photo Recovery

    Now that your camera or memory card is connected, launch Stellar Photo Recovery. You’ll be greeted by the software’s user-friendly interface, which is designed to guide you through the recovery process with ease.

    Step 4: Select the Drive or Device

    In the main interface of Stellar Photo Recovery, you’ll see a list of available drives and devices. Locate your camera or memory card from the list and select it. This step is crucial as it tells the software where to scan for deleted photos.

    Step 5: Choose a Scan Option

    Stellar Photo Recovery offers two scan options: ‘Quick Scan’ and ‘Deep Scan.’

    Quick Scan: This option is faster and suitable for recently deleted photos. It can recover photos that were deleted recently and have not been overwritten by new data.

    Deep Scan: If your vacation pictures were deleted some time ago, or if you’re unable to find them using the Quick Scan, the Deep Scan option is your best bet. It performs a more thorough and in-depth scan of your storage device, looking for traces of deleted files. This option takes more time but has a higher chance of recovering older pictures.

    Select the scan option that best suits your situation. For the purpose of this guide, let’s assume you’re using the Quick Scan option to recover your recently deleted vacation pictures.

    Step 6: Initiate the Scan

    Click on the “Scan” button to start the scanning process. Stellar Photo Recovery will analyze the selected drive or device for deleted photos. The duration of the scan depends on the size of the storage device and the selected scan option. Be patient, as the software works diligently to locate your lost pictures.

    Step 7: Preview and Select Pictures

    Once the scan is complete, Stellar Photo Recovery will display a list of recoverable photos. You can browse through the thumbnails to preview the pictures. This step is crucial as it allows you to confirm whether your vacation pictures are recoverable.

    Take your time to go through the list and select the vacation pictures you want to recover. You can use filters and sorting options to make the process easier. Ensure that you’ve selected all the photos you need to retrieve those precious memories.

    Step 8: Recover Your Vacation Pictures

    With your vacation pictures selected, click on the “Recover” button. Stellar Photo Recovery will prompt you to choose a location to save the recovered files. It’s essential to select a different location from the one you’re recovering from to avoid overwriting any data.

    Once you’ve chosen the destination folder, click “Start Saving.” Stellar Photo Recovery will proceed to recover your selected vacation pictures and save them to the specified location.

    Step 9: Verify Your Recovered Pictures

    After the recovery process is complete, navigate to the destination folder you selected in the previous step. Here, you should find your recovered vacation pictures. Take a moment to verify the quality and integrity of the recovered files. Stellar Photo Recovery is known for its ability to recover photos with minimal loss in quality, ensuring that your memories are preserved as best as possible.

    Step 10: Backup Your Recovered Pictures

    Now that you’ve successfully recovered your vacation pictures, it’s crucial to create a backup. Copy the recovered files to a safe and secure location, such as an external hard drive or cloud storage. This extra precaution ensures that you won’t lose your pictures again in the future.

    Stellar Photo Recovery: Key Features

    Stellar Photo Recovery is not just about recovering accidentally deleted photos; it offers a range of features and benefits that make it a top choice for photo recovery:

    1. Wide Compatibility

    Stellar Photo Recovery supports a broad range of storage devices, including digital cameras, memory cards, USB drives, hard drives, and more. This versatility ensures that you can recover photos from various sources.

    2. Comprehensive File Format Support

    The software can recover a wide array of photo and multimedia file formats, including JPEG, PNG, TIFF, GIF, RAW formats used by various camera manufacturers, and even video and audio files.

    3. User-Friendly Interface

    Stellar Photo Recovery features an intuitive and user-friendly interface that caters to both beginners and experienced users. You don’t need to be a tech expert to use this software effectively.

    4. Advanced Scanning Options

    The Quick Scan and Deep Scan options provide flexibility, allowing you to choose the scan method that suits your specific situation. This ensures a higher success rate in recovering your lost photos.

    5. Preview Before Recovery

    The software enables you to preview the recoverable photos before initiating the recovery process. This feature helps you confirm that you’re recovering the right pictures.

    6. Save Scan Information

    Stellar Photo Recovery allows you to save scan information, so you can resume the recovery process at a later time without rescanning the entire drive.

    7. Secure Recovery

    The software ensures that your data remains secure during the recovery process. It doesn’t overwrite or modify the original data on your storage device.

    Read Also: Actress Eniola flaunts stunning pictures ahead birthday

    8. Stellar Photo Repair Integration

    In addition to recovery, Stellar offers a complementary tool called Stellar Photo Repair, which can help you repair damaged or corrupted photos.

    Conclusion

    Losing vacation pictures can be a heart-wrenching experience, but with the right tools and techniques, you can recover those precious memories. Stellar Photo Recovery stands out as a reliable and user-friendly solution for recovering accidentally deleted photos from your camera or memory card.

    In this guide, we’ve walked you through the step-by-step process of using Stellar Photo Recovery to retrieve your vacation pictures. Remember to act promptly, as the chances of successful recovery are higher when you stop using the storage device as soon as you realize that your photos are missing.

    So, the next time you find yourself in a situation where you’ve accidentally deleted your vacation pictures, don’t panic. Download Stellar Photo Recovery, follow the steps outlined in this guide, and watch as your cherished memories are restored. With Stellar Photo Recovery, you can ensure that those unforgettable moments from your vacation will be preserved for years to come.

  • Rewarding excellence: Exchanger101 unveils promotions for high-volume crypto traders

    Rewarding excellence: Exchanger101 unveils promotions for high-volume crypto traders

    Exchanger101, one of Nigeria’s leading cryptocurrency and gift card exchanges, has unveiled a new promotional system designed to provide added value to its customers and boost trading activity.

    The company, founded in 2016, recently celebrated its seventh year in operation with the launch of multiple reward programs aimed at expressing gratitude to its loyal customers.

    CEO of Exchanger101, Anthony I said: “We introduced these promotional and reward programs as a way to express our gratitude to our customers for their unwavering support over the past seven years. The results have been remarkable, and we intend to sustain these initiatives in the long term.”

    As part of the reward program, Exchanger101 will award ₦50,000 weekly to its top cryptocurrency traders.

    Announcements regarding the winners will be made through the platform’s app, with all registered customers automatically eligible for participation. Additionally, Exchanger101 will honor its top 10 gift card traders each month with a total prize pool of ₦250,000. A leaderboard will be accessible to customers, providing transparency on their rankings.

    Furthermore, the platform will introduce a unique promotion where the top 10 crypto traders at the end of each month will receive ₦1 in cashback for every Dollar traded on the platform. Anthony confirmed that the company will closely monitor the impact of this promotion and may consider doubling the rewards by early 2024.

    Read Also: Turkish court jails crypto currency boss 11,196 years

    “We are committed to giving back to our customers and creating added value for them,” Anthony emphasized.

    “We believe these initiatives will provide our customers with more incentives to trade, earn, and enjoy their experience on our platform. All promotional opportunities are open to every Exchanger101 customer, without any special eligibility criteria,” he stated.

    Exchanger101, established in 2016, is a cryptocurrency exchange and gift card platform. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools, enabling individuals to profit from cryptocurrencies and gift cards, with easy access to the digital asset market from the comfort of their homes.

  • Forbes-rated Abuja socialite #Sir Uyi unveils #VANITI Lagos, boosts nightlife in South West

    Forbes-rated Abuja socialite #Sir Uyi unveils #VANITI Lagos, boosts nightlife in South West

    Forbes-rated socialite #Uyi Ogbebor aka Sir Uyi is set for the groundbreaking opening of a new club in Lagos.

    Uyi, whose company, HWP Group, houses many other companies including top clubs, Moscow Underground, Hustle & Bustle, Whiskey Mistress and Magic City  has been partnering with investors and socialites to transform nightlife in Abuja.

    #VANITI Lagos is one of the new wonders of the commercial city with those who have visited the club under heavy renovation rating it as one of the best across the nation.

    Read Also: Experts proffer solutions to Cameroon’s dam flooding

    This is obviously because of the plans and the architectures already put in place to give the new club the much desired aesthetics.

    Uyi had grown all his companies from the scratch and set a standard in the entertainment  industry, a standard competitors could rarely match.

    The date of official unveiling of the club is yet to be announced but the level of work done so far indicates that #VANITI Lagos will be opened for business soon.

    The business tycoon also delved into estate business with an ongoing estate project in the heart of Abuja. Apex Garden Estate is one of the best architecturally in the nation’s capital.

  • ICAN set for 53rd annual conference

    ICAN set for 53rd annual conference

    The 53rd Annual Accountants’ Conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) is scheduled to hold between 9th and 13th October 2023.

    In a statement by Mr. Mukaila Lawal, FCA  Acting Registrar/Chief Executive of the Institute, the conference with the theme: NIGERIA: Imperatives for Inclusive Development will hold at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

    Different speakers are expected to talk at the plenary sessions, which will bring together thousands of accountants and other professionals from various industries, both from public and private sectors even as the President, Innocent Iweka Okwuosa, PhD, FCA looks forward to the epoch-making event.

    Read Also: Celebrating peoples of African Descent

    Participants are to expect special attractions like Business Exhibitions, Sports: Golf, Chess, Table Tennis, Scrabble, Lawn Tennis competition and Novelty Football Match, Happy Hour Evening of Varieties, Gala Nite/Dinner: (Live Performance by reputable musician and a Standby DJ ) Raffle draw: At least one car as the star prize and many consolation prizes, free access to conference App to view Conference activities live and discounted airfare by Conference Official Airlines.

  • Naira: Currency Redenomination Still Outweighs Redesigning

    Naira: Currency Redenomination Still Outweighs Redesigning

    • Dr Rasheed Olajide Alao

    In what looked like a wrapped (good) news to Nigerians when Mr. Godwin Emefiele, the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), having suffered the poverty of poor Economics, recoloured currency with a belief that he redesigned N200, N500, and N1000 higher notes December 15, 2022, to tackle inflation and mop-up excess cash. Due to the mixed success of the redesigning, the apex bank ought not to have redesigned or recoloured the higher notes but should have taken a bold step further to currency redenomination, recalibration, or better still, restructuring. My piece on November 14, 2022, by The Nigerian Tribune on currency redenomination against the redesigned currency fell on deaf ears of the concerned authorities, a month before the set date.


    What does the Nigerian currency redenomination entail? Redenomination is by knocking out or dropping two zeros from the currency or moving two decimal places to the left which will consequently revive coins back to circulation as it occurred in Ghana in 2007 with four zeros dropped and in Turkey in 2005 as six zeros shed while the name of the Nigerian currency will remain the Naira and Kobo. The process will make Nigerian currency reference money for Africa with sound official exchange rates around N7.75 to $1 and N9.76 to £1. During the transition period, the existing naira will be referred to as the “Old Naira”, and the new one to be called the “New Naira”. After the transition period, the word “new” may be removed, and all the Kobo in coins and all the Naira in notes/coins.
    In the process, higher denominations like N2000, N5000, and N10,000 notes must be introduced to circulation and by redenomination, will be converted to N20, N50, and highest N100 new Naira notes respectively. Likewise the existing notes of N1000, N500, N200, and N100 notes will be redenominated to N10, N5, N2, and N1 new Naira respectively while direct coinage of N50, N20, N10 and N5 polymer notes will automatically become 50 kobo, 20 kobo, 10 kobo and 5 kobo coins including new ½, 1, and 2 kobo coins.
    This recalibration will kick-start President Bola Tinubu’s overall economic and monetary reforms vis-à-vis new monetary transactions, and exchange rate, akin to formulating a productive economy and broad-based export capacity, in a reminiscence of the 1980s when Nigeria was a productive and heavy exporting country. Hard economic decisions stimulate transformation, all-inclusive, overlapping generation growth. During 2023 electioneering campaign in Minna, Niger State former Governor Sanni Bello, like other Nigerians urged President Tinubu to transform Nigeria as he did Lagos when he was Governor of the state. With high hope and all eyes on Mr. President, he will therefore need to take currency restructuring as a matter of urgency. Redenomination of currency is a tough decision that can only be taken in a way similar to petroleum subsidy removal. This is only achievable by a futuristic and world-class economy-concerned leader like President Tinubu. The two-step – petroleum subsidy removal and the proposed currency recalibration from Tinubunomics will earn the country a strong economic footing among other short-run-pain-long-run-gain policies. If Nigeria under President Tinubu fails to take tough decisions on subsidy removal cum currency recalibration at this crucial and critical time, it will take an endless long shot before Nigeria can get it right. Strong institutions make a developed country. Mr. President thus needs to re-institutionalize our weakened institutions and de-institutionalize failed ones to measure up to global standards.
    First, the CBN still needs to redenominate currency to fundamentally call back coins to circulation. In a developed circulation, every currency has a pair of notes and coins. Second, the apex bank also needs to redenominate to bring back Kobo because every currency has major and minor denominations, such as Naira and Kobo in the Nigeria case. My answer-seeking questions from the above two points are: Where are the Nigerian coins? What constituted coin depletion? Where are the Kobo currencies? The sweet memories of gold and silver coins (in Naira and kobo) which my parents used to give me as pocket money while I was in Ansar-Ud-Deen primary school (now ADS 1 and 2), Modeke, Igboho, Oyo State in the 1980s through Igboho-More Community Grammar School to Irepo Grammar School, Igboho in the 1990s, were no longer in circulation. To my dismay, I expended coins during my trips to the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates, and not too long in Cyprus and Turkey, among other countries operating notes and coins on the world stage. All nations, both developed and developing settle transactions with notes and coins in their respective circulations with varying ratios of dominance, say 90:10% or 95:5% respectively while Nigeria operates on a 100:0% notes-coin ratio in a mono-circulation.

    Read Also: Naira begins new week on negative note

    To achieve the currency restructuring and coins call-back, the administration of President Bola Tinubu, Governors’ Forum in conjunction with the National Assembly nexus need to take the bull by the horns to redenominate the currency by January 1, 2024, when Nigeria will usher in new year new monies. The proposed currency recalibration will earn the new administration a strong currency footing for economic reform. The suggested period will give enough time and space to educate Nigerians especially the not-too-learned, old, and rural dwellers on currency restructuring and redenomination.

    In 2007, the then CBN Governor, Professor Charles Soludo stated at a Bankers’ Committee meeting in Lagos that: ‘‘…. we intend to restructure the entire currency by dropping two zeroes or moving two decimal points to the left from the currency, and issuing more coin denominations. This would entail a total currency exchange and phasing-out of all the existing denominations from August 1, 2008. Effectively, at the current exchange rate, this policy would mean that the Naira/US dollar exchange rate would be around N1.25 to US$1 then. All Naira assets, prices, and contracts will be re-denominated by dropping two zeroes or two decimal points to the left with effect from this date’’. It was either the presidency of Late Umar Yar’Adua in 2007 didn’t get the redenomination attempt right with Soludo or Soludo was not convincive enough or the instilled phobia of the millionaires and billionaires would be relegated to thousandnaires and millionaires respectively or a mix of the trio not knowing fully well that new values of their money would remain the same as the old ones. Thanks to time, the former CBN Governor Soludo who was one of the brain boxes of President Olusegun Obasanjo’s successful administration and is now Anambra State Governor has much to tell Nigerians about his redenomination proposal in 2007 and open up to the nation the stumbling blocks he then encountered which will guide President Bola Tinubu on currency redesigning and redenomination.

    The query on coins and kobo’s disappearance propelled me to publish some piece on the quest for the return of the Nigerian coins to circulation in national dailies – Nigerian Tribune, November 14, 2022, The Nation, March 16, 2014, Daily Independent, March 5, 2014, p. 31-32 and the Nigerian Tribune, March 3, 2014, p. 20, all, after eight years of no-action, still begging for answers from the appropriate quarters precisely the Federal Government, Ministry of Finance and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). So, learning about the CBN’s failure in currency redenomination by the last three successive administrations of YarAdua, Jonathan, and Buhari, I am still poised to re-echo the crusade to President Bola Tinubu, before it is too late.

    Given the above, it is evident that the Nigerian currency’s redenomination overanks and overshadows the redesigned currency by the former CBN Governor. For Nigeria’s currency to align with top global currencies and to redeem coins from pendulous existence and perpetual extinction, I would like to, as I convinced former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan in 2014 and Muhammadu Buhari in 2022, advise President Bola Tinubu to devise currency restructuring to meet up with the world currencies standard and return the Nigerian precious and prestigious metallic monies to circulation.
    Dr. Alao is a Lecturer in the Department of Economics, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria. rasheed.alao@uniabuja.edu.ng +2348055795353

  • Kick Off Your Winnings: Mastering Football Betting in the Online Casino Scene

    Kick Off Your Winnings: Mastering Football Betting in the Online Casino Scene

    Are you a football enthusiast who also enjoys the thrill of casino games? Imagine combining your love for football with the excitement of betting in the online casino world. Football betting has taken the online casino scene by storm, offering fans a chance to engage with the sport on a whole new level. If you’re ready to dive into this exhilarating experience and potentially score big wins, this article is your ultimate guide.

    Table of Contents

    Sr#Headings
    1.Introduction
    2.Understanding Football Betting
    3.Different Types of Football Bets
    4.Research and Analysis: The Winning Edge
    5.Choosing a Reputable Online Casino
    6.Managing Your Betting Budget
    7.The Art of Live Betting
    8.Leveraging Bonuses and Promotions
    9.Staying Mindful of Addiction
    10.Enjoying the Thrill Responsibly
    11.Conclusion
    12.Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Introduction

    Imagine watching your favorite football team in action while also having a stake in the game’s outcome. Football betting has evolved into a sensational experience that combines the adrenaline of the sport with the thrill of casino games. But how do you master this exciting venture and emerge victorious?

    2. Understanding Football Betting

    Football betting goes beyond predicting a simple win or loss. It involves a wide array of bets that allow you to wager on various aspects of the game, such as goal scorers, total goals, and even the timing of specific events. This opens up a world of possibilities for you to explore.

    3. Different Types of Football Bets

    From the classic ‘Moneyline’ bet to the more intricate ‘Asian Handicap,’ there are numerous betting options at your disposal. ‘Over/Under’ bets let you predict the total goals scored, while ‘In-Play’ bets enable you to wager as the match unfolds. Each bet type presents a unique opportunity, so it’s essential to understand them before placing your bets.

    4. Research and Analysis: The Winning Edge

    While luck plays a role, informed decisions are the real game-changer. Research the teams, their recent performance, player injuries, and head-to-head statistics. Combine this information with your understanding of the betting options to increase your chances of making accurate predictions.

    Read Also: When Is The Best Time To Play At Online Casinos?

    5. Choosing a Reputable Online Casino

    Selecting the right online casino is crucial for a safe and enjoyable betting experience. Look for licensed platforms with positive reviews and a wide range of betting markets. Your chosen casino should offer a user-friendly interface, secure payment options, and responsive customer support.

    6. Managing Your Betting Budget

    Before you start, set a budget for your betting activities. It’s easy to get carried away, so having a predefined limit ensures responsible gambling. Treat your betting budget as entertainment funds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.

    7. The Art of Live Betting

    Live betting allows you to place wagers during the game, reacting to the unfolding events. It requires quick thinking, as odds change rapidly. This dynamic form of betting adds an extra layer of excitement to your football experience.

    8. Leveraging Bonuses and Promotions

    Online casinos often offer bonuses and promotions that can enhance your betting potential. These may include free bets, deposit matches, or cashback offers. Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions attached to these promotions to make the most of them.

    9. Staying Mindful of Addiction

    While football betting is thrilling, it’s essential to be mindful of the potential for addiction. Set time limits, take breaks, and avoid chasing losses. If you find yourself struggling to control your betting habits, seek professional help.

    10. Enjoying the Thrill Responsibly

    Football betting is all about enjoying the thrill while keeping your feet on the ground. Remember that wins and losses are part of the game. Celebrate your successes, learn from your failures, and approach each bet with a balanced perspective.

    11. Conclusion

    The world of football betting in online casinos offers a remarkable fusion of two exciting worlds. From understanding different bet types to conducting thorough research, mastering this art requires a blend of knowledge, strategy, and responsible gambling practices.

    12. Frequently Asked Questions

    Q1. Can I bet on more than just the final outcome of a football match?
    A1. Absolutely! Football betting encompasses various bets, including goal scorers, total goals, and even specific events during the match.

    Q2. How do I ensure the online casino I choose is trustworthy?
    A2. Look for licensed casinos with positive reviews, a variety of betting options, secure payment methods, and responsive customer support.

    Q3. What is live betting, and how does it work?
    A3. Live betting allows you to place bets during the game, reacting to changing circumstances and odds in real-time.

    Q4. Can I use bonuses to enhance my football betting experience?
    A4. Yes, many online casinos offer bonuses and promotions that can boost your betting potential. Familiarize yourself with their terms.

    Q5. How can I ensure responsible gambling while football betting?
    A5. Set a budget, stick to it, and avoid chasing losses. Remember that betting should be an enjoyable activity, not an addictive one.

    In conclusion, mastering football betting in the online casino scene requires a blend of understanding the game, researching effectively, and practicing responsible gambling. By immersing yourself in this thrilling world with knowledge and caution, you can elevate your football experience and potentially kick off some impressive winnings. So, are you ready to take that first step into the world of football betting excitement?

  • WowPot Progressive Jackpot Now At More Than £33.5 Million

    WowPot Progressive Jackpot Now At More Than £33.5 Million

    Meta: The WowPot Progressive Jackpot recently climbed to more than £33.50 million. Find out where you can play the WowPot Jackpot slot right here.

    If you’re looking for an online slot machine with a progressive jackpot that’s worth over £30,000,000.00, you’ve come to the right place. The WowPot progressive jackpot that connects ten online slot machines from Games Global recently climbed above £33,500,000.00, and it can drop on any spin.

    Revealed on this page are the names of all ten WowPot Jackpot slots, all of which are playable from as little as $/€/£0.10 or $/€/£0.20 per spin, depending on the game.

    To play any of the WowPot Jackpot slots, you must be at least 18 years old in most parts of the world, 21 in US states where it’s legal to play at online casinos, or 19 in Canadian provinces.

    Which games come with the WowPot progressive jackpot?

    There are ten games in the WowPot Jackpot slots series. As mentioned, they are all brought to you by a market-leading online casino software provider called Games Global.

    However, they weren’t made by this company. They were made by a handful of independent game development studios that are partnered with Games Global.

    These games can now be found at numerous fully licensed online casinos, or ‘kasino’ if you live in the Nordic regions for example, one of which is Unibet Casino. Without further ado, the games to keep an eye out for are the following:

    • Wheel of Wishes by Alchemy Gaming – this popular Middle Eastern-themed slot is the first instalment in the series
    • 9 Blazing Diamonds WowPot by Spin Play Games – if you’re looking for a traditional fruit machine-themed slot, try this WowPot jackpot slot before any others
    • Queen of Alexandria WowPot by Neon Valley Games – this is one of the world’s most famous Ancient Egyptian-themed online slots
    • Sherlock & Moriarty WowPot by JFTW (Just for the Win) Studios – this is a popular murder mystery/Sherlock Holmes-themed slot
    • Book of Atem WowPot by All41 Studios – another feature-rich slot with an Ancient Egypt theme
    • The Finer Reels of Life WowPot by Microgaming – this luxury lifestyle & wealth themed slot was developed by Microgaming – a company that Games Global acquired in May 2022, and it’s the latest instalment
    • Wolf Blaze WowPot Megaways by Fortune Factory Studios – this North American Wilderness/Wolves-themed slot is one of the newest from the series, having arrived in casinos just months after The Finer Reels of Life WowPot slot was released

    There are three other WowPot Jackpot slots in this series, and they were all made by Triple Edge Studios.

    You have the Sisters of Oz WowPot slot (a kind of Wizard of Oz/Witches-themed slot), Ancient Fortunes: Poseidon Megaways WowPot (a Greek Mythology-themed slot), and Cash ‘N Riches Megaways WowPot (a Money/Wealth/Gems & Jewels-themed slot).

    How did the WowPot Jackpot climb so big, and when will it be won?

    As opposed to a fixed coin jackpot, which is capped at a certain amount (e.g., 100x to 50,000x times your total stake), there’s no limit to how high a progressive jackpot can climb.

    Each time someone plays any of the WowPot Jackpot slots in the real money mode, a tiny amount of that stake is automatically added to the global pot, and it will keep climbing until one player wins. At the time of writing, it’s worth a staggering $/€/£33,534,649.58 (and climbing by the second).

    It’s the biggest online jackpot in the history of online casinos, and it can be won at any time of the day by any lucky player. There’s no saying when it will be won.

    When it does eventually pop, instead of resetting to zero, the WowPot Jackpot, like all other progressive jackpots, will rest to what is referred to as the ‘seed amount,’ which happens to be $/€/£2,000,000.00 (or equivalent currency value) in all of the WowPot Jackpot slots.

    Final note

    Remember to stay within your budget when playing online casino games, and never chase your losses. Try to set deposit limits, where possible, and don’t forget to take short breaks in between your gaming sessions. It can lead to a safer and far more enjoyable time.

  • Back-to-school: FastCash offers parents up to N200,000 loan in five minutes

    Back-to-school: FastCash offers parents up to N200,000 loan in five minutes

    As students get set to resume another academic session, FastCash, powered by First City Monument Bank (FCMB), is offering parents and guardians up to N200,000 to help them cover the costs of school fees and back-to-school supplies. The credit line supports the purchase of school uniforms, books, bags, confectionaries, and other items required to enhance children’s learning experience.

    Commenting on the back-to-school offering of FastCash, the Divisional Head of Personal Banking at FCMB, Shamsideen Fashola, said: “We understand that back-to-school season can be financially challenging for many families. That’s why we’re offering FastCash to help make it easier. We want to ensure that all our customers have the resources to give their children the best possible start to the new school year. FastCash is a convenient and affordable way for parents to get the money they need to make back-to-school a success.”

    FastCash is a collateral-free, convenient and easy-to-access personal digital loan product that provides credit up to N200,000 to existing customers of FCMB in less than five minutes to meet emergency needs. Enhanced with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning technology capabilities to ensure that more individuals, households, and businesses have access to funds, FastCash also enables customers to increase their current loan without paying off their existing loan fully.

    Read Also: Households, SMEs to get N10m FCMB energy facility

    It is designed to significantly close the access to finance gap in the country, reduce poverty and promote financial inclusion. Customers can conveniently access the loan through the FCMB New Mobile App or by dialling the Bank’s USSD code, 32911#.

    Getting a FastCash loan requires no collateral or paperwork. Customers with a good repayment history can access the loan at a reduced interest rate. Another advantage is the ability to top-up a loan with friendly repayment terms for a specific amount. This feature benefits every customer who needs to borrow more.

    FastCash, launched in 2018, has disbursed over 3.5 million loans worth N111 billion to Nigerians from all walks of life. The product has become popular among Nigerians seeking quick access to funds. It is available to FCMB customers, and repayment terms are flexible, with repayment options ranging from 30 days to three months.

    First City Monument Bank (FCMB) is a member of the FCMB Group Plc. The Bank is committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable growth within its communities, and it aims to build a supportive ecosystem rooted in Africa, connecting people, capital, and markets. By offering innovative financial solutions, FCMB is helping to improve the economic well-being of Nigerians.