The Nation Newspaper

Category: Consumer Watch

  • How Nigeria loomed large in Saudi Arabia’s Minerals’ Forum

    How Nigeria loomed large in Saudi Arabia’s Minerals’ Forum

    • By Segun Tomori

    The third edition of Saudi Arabia’s Future Minerals Forum (FMF) has come and gone but what remains to be told is the story of Nigeria’s prominence in the comity of over 80 nations that graced the conference. The FMF, conceptualised to create resilient and responsible mineral value chains in Africa, Western and Central Asia has become the foremost gathering of countries endowed with solid minerals and those interested in harnessing the resources or investing in its value chain.

    Hitherto, Nigeria had paid scant regard to her mineral resources, largely because of over-dependence on oil, but all of that changed with the advent of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    Eager to diversify the economy and maximise the immense potentials of the sector, President Tinubu drafted one of his most trusted lieutenants, Dr. Dele Alake to superintend over the newly created Solid Minerals Development Ministry, an offshoot of the former Mines and Steel Ministry.

    Dr. Alake, in his capacity as Nigeria’s Solid Minerals helmsman, led the Nigerian delegation to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for the minerals conference that was held from 9th to 11th January, 2024.

    From our first day of arrival, we already had the inkling of how hectic the schedule would be.

    The parley with Saudi Arabian Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar AlKhorayef, and his entourage was the first port of call. Waxing lyrical as he is wont to do, Alake affirmed that Nigeria under President Tinubu is now taking the development of solid minerals very seriously, reeling out on-going reforms that will bequeath an efficient governance structure, tackle impediments to ease of doing business and address insecurity in mining areas.

    He further made a case for investments and partnership with Saudi Arabia in areas of exploration, extraction and the whole gamut of the mining sector value chain whilst assuring his guest that the policy of full repatriation of profits to home countries and tax waivers on imported equipment are some of the incentives put in place by President Tinubu to attract investors. It was an elated AlKhorayef that welcomed Nigeria’s renewed interest in solid minerals.

    Acknowledging that the world is moving away from fossil fuels to cleaner energy, of which critical minerals will play a major role, he aligned with Alake’s submission that mutually beneficial partnerships will suffice to advance the economic interest of both countries.

    Consequently, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia agreed to set up a joint technical committee to work out modalities for collaboration.

    Unlike other conferences where Nigeria and most African countries are consigned to less prominent panel sessions or fireside chats, Nigeria, alongside Pakistan, United Kingdom and some private sector juggernauts headlined the opening session of the. Future Minerals Forum (FMF). Joining Dr. Alake on the panel were Pakistani Minister of Energy, HE Muhammed Ali; United Kingdom Minister of State for Industry and Economy, HE Nosrat Ghani; Chairman, Anglo American, Stuart Chambers amongst others.

    Speaking on the topic “Why the Super Region Should the Super Region Have its Own Critical Minerals Strategy?” Alake held the audience spellbound as he firmly declared that the concept of inclusivity in a super region should entail a paradigm shift to local value addition, as against the age-long practice of merely carting away raw materials from Africa.

    “For us in Nigeria and most of Africa, the idea of a super region is quite significant in order to harness the mosaic, distinctive mineral resources that are within the confines of the super regions and consequently achieve a sustainable energy mix for the world.

    In Nigeria, we have prioritised the development of our critical minerals and rare earth metals, so the idea of inclusivity in a super region entails collaborative efforts, not only in the area of investments but technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and more importantly, for us in Africa, local value addition, the Minister asserted.

    The superlative performance of Nigeria didn’t go unnoticed as Alake was soon trailed by a deluge of international media organisations for an interview. Initially, we had four on our list – CNN, Saudi TV, Argaam, and CNBC, but we ended up doing a whooping seven, including the renowned London Economist and Bloomberg. Everywhere we turned to, dignitaries stood in awe of Dr. Alake, as they literally fell upon themselves to take pictures or commend his presentation at the opening session.

    Read Also: Adeleke’s sacking of 1,500 teachers increased out-of-school children in Osun, says Oyetola

    When the African Ministers of Solid Minerals/ Mineral resources needed a rallying point to forge a common front, they approached Nigeria to lead the way. Alongside his Ugandan counterpart, Hon. Dr. Peter Lokeris, Dr. Alake led the African delegation comprising nine countries into a series of meetings and the resolution was unanimous -Africa will no longer be given the shorter end of the stick, value addition should take the center-stage of inclusivity in the super region!

    Alake thereafter offered to host the African Ministers in Nigeria to consolidate on the agreement and forge a way forward for the development of Africa through harnessing its abundant mineral resources.

    Aside from engagements with the Saudi political establishment, mining sector players from across the world also parleyed the Minister and expressed their interest in Nigeria’s mining sector. Monaco’s Jean Boulle Group, led by its Chairman, Jean-Raymond Boulle, informed the Minister of an impending visit to Nigeria, asserting his firm’s readiness to expand its operations to Nigeria’s mining value chain. The Saudi royal family was not left out as HE Prince Fahad Al Saud alongside the CEO of their family office; Constandinos Felder also met Alake with the aim remaining the same – interest in Nigeria’s critical minerals and willingness to bring massive investments into the country.

    From the reception accorded Nigeria at the just concluded FMF, we can deduce that the world is ready for Nigeria. The onus now falls on us to put our house in order. Thankfully, the 7-point agenda of the Minister is well on course. Just a few days ago, President Tinubu alluded to the establishment of the solid minerals police – an integral part of the 7-point agenda, which is christened “Mines Police”, during a meeting with State Governors. Also, plans for the establishment of the Nigerian Mining Corporation (NMC) that will bequeath an efficient governance structure for the mining sector are well on course.

    2024 will be an interesting year for the renaissance of Nigeria’s mining sector. The coming weeks and months promise to be action-packed in that regard, with Dr. Alake leading the way. May Nigeria succeed!

    ●Segun Tomori is the Special Assistant on Media to the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development

  • MarkHack 2.0 Returns With Prize Pool Of $10,000

    MarkHack 2.0 Returns With Prize Pool Of $10,000

    Eko Innovation Centre has announced the return of MarkHack, Nigeria’s first hackathon at the intersection of media, marketing, and tech at a launch event held at the Eko Innovation Centre, Ikoyi, Lagos, over the weekend.

    Following the success of MarkHack 1.0, this year’s edition, MarkHack 2.0, promises to redefine the future of marketing and media by fostering innovation and collaboration among professionals, students, and entrepreneurs. The hackathon aims to provide media and tech solutions that can disrupt marketing in key focus areas such as Consumer Experience, Media Consumption, Consumer Interaction, Trade and Retail Engagement, Analytics and Metrics, Events Marketing, Media Monetization, and Content Creation.

    With the creative industry being Nigeria’s second-largest employer and the potential to generate 7 million jobs by 2025, Victor Afolabi, the Founder of Eko Innovation Centre and Convener of MarkHack 2.0, emphasized the importance of innovation in steering the industry’s growth.

    He stated, “The rise of digital media, social platforms, and technology usage has made the creative industries one of the most dynamic sectors globally. MarkHack 2.0 provides a platform for collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking to disrupt the creative market and to provide a platform for them to showcase their ideas to Potential Investors.”

    The call for participation garnered an overwhelming response, with 1,365 participants from 92 locations across Europe, Asia, and Africa submitting their entries. From the registered participants, 230 teams were formed to brainstorm innovative ideas, concepts, and prototypes in three focus areas: Immersive Experience (XR) -57 teams, Content Creation- 119 Teams  , and Robo Marketing- 54 Teams.

    The MarkHack 2.0 pitch event will be judged by 22 industry experts, who will select the top ten teams to advance to the finals. The final winners, chosen by a panel of seven esteemed jurors, will share a prize pool of $10,000 and gain the opportunity to join the Eko Innovation Centre accelerator programme with up to $50,000 equity investment.

    The launch event featured a keynote address by Hannah Oyebanjo, Managing Director of Redwood Consulting, titled “Marketing and Media in the Creative Economy: Trends and Innovative Solutions for a Future Ready Industry.”

    Oyebanjo highlighted the digital evolution of marketing and the potential of technologies such as AI, AR, VR, and gamification in creating new opportunities for engaging consumers.

    Read Also: Firms seek disruptive tech innovation to meet global demand

    “The age-old dichotomy between traditional and new marketing are telltale signs of the fluid nature of Marketing. Marketing evolved from the 5ps to 8Ps (with Service based offerings). But the future is a revolution when even what we call ‘New Marketing’ today, will become ‘Old Skool’!”

    She added that from the 5Ps of traditional marketing to the Fusion, Hybrids, Ad-ons, Content, Experiential of new Marketing, the industry is headed for a more disruptive world of Web 3.0, AI, AR, VR, Gamification, etc.

    The MarkHack 2.0 launch event had in attendance distinguished members of the marketing and media industry, leading industry professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts and thought leaders on marketing and tech.

    The Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Innovation and Technology, Tubosun Alake graced the launch event along with Mrs IquoUko, Managing Director, Entod Marketing/ IQ Food Platter; SegunOgunleye, General Manager Marketing, Seven Up Bottling Company; TemitopeEkundayo, Chief Executive Officer, Printivo Limited and TolaBamigbaiye-Elatuyi, Marketing Director, Pladis Global and  

    Others include LoluDesalu, Chief Marketing Officer, CMO, Filmhouse Group and BabatundeFatai, Senior XR&Metaverse Engr., MTN Nigeria who both thrilled attendees in an enlightening fireside chat at the official launch of MarkHack 2.0, BolajiJunaid, Founder/ CEO, Whyfinite, among others.

    All roads will lead to the MarkHack 2.0 grand finale on the 7th of July, 2023 at the Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos. The event is expected to have in attendance dignitaries, industry leaders, tech enthusiasts, innovators, investors, marketing directors, brand owners, managing directors to witness the emergence of the next big thing in marketing and technology.

    MarkHack 2.0 is powered by Eko Innovation Centre and supported by GDM Group, the Experiential Marketers Association of Nigeria, Hazon Holdings and other partners.

  • Consumers Thrilled With The New look, Flavour Of St. Lauren

    Consumers Thrilled With The New look, Flavour Of St. Lauren

    St. Lauren, the premium non-alcoholic sparkling wine brand of Grand Oak Limited, officially unveiled its new look across its three variants – Red, Gold and White – with a grand event held at Lagos Sheraton Hotel. The event was attended by industry experts, consumers, and media personalities who experienced the unique taste and luxurious appeal of the wine.

    The new-look St. Lauren non-alcoholic wine features a sleek and modern design that allows consumers to celebrate every moment in style. The new design now comes in elegant and contemporary packaging that enhances the look and feel of St Lauren.

    Attendees were treated to a delightful evening of African cuisine, thrilling artistic performances and entertainment, as well as a sip-and-paint session where attendees explored their creativity, along with St Lauren wine.

    Speaking about the launch, Stanley Obi, Director, Prime Business Unit, Grand Oak Limited, said, “We are thrilled to present the brand-new look of St. Lauren to our esteemed customers. This relaunch represents our commitment to providing a luxurious and exceptional experience to our consumers. We are excited to present the new elegant look of St. Lauren non-alcoholic Sparkling Wine at our event launches in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, bringing the unique taste and quality of St. Lauren to more people. We believe that this new chapter for St. Lauren will open more celebratory occasions for our esteemed consumers”.

    The relaunch of the brand in Lagos marks the beginning of an exciting journey for St. Lauren, as the launch is also expected to expand to other markets.

    Read Also: Ekulo partners with Cubana Group for Laurent-Perrier

    Commenting on the brand-new look and flavours, the Brand Business Manager, St. Lauren Non-alcoholic Sparkling Wine, OluseunMudashiru, said “St. Lauren is an enabler of celebration at every occasion. With our new look, we are excited to provide a fresh and modern experience for our customers. Crafted with the finest ingredients, St. Lauren ensures a refreshing and satisfying taste as the perfect accompaniment to any event. From hosts to event planners and food curators, you are guaranteed exquisite taste and experiences with St. Lauren at your events.”

    St. Lauren aims to expand its reach and cater to premium non-alcoholic wine lovers across Nigeria, while also providing an unmatched wine experience for those who love to celebrate in style. 

  • SON SENSITIZE/TRAIN IMPORTERS IN ALABA INT’L MARKET TO TACKLE INFLUX OF SUBSTANDARD PRODUCTS AND  ENSURE RESTORATION OF CONFIDENCE AND VALUE ON PRODUCTS IN THE NATION 

    SON SENSITIZE/TRAIN IMPORTERS IN ALABA INT’L MARKET TO TACKLE INFLUX OF SUBSTANDARD PRODUCTS AND  ENSURE RESTORATION OF CONFIDENCE AND VALUE ON PRODUCTS IN THE NATION 

    In line with Standards Organization of Nigeria’s (SON), quest to improve life through standardization and quality assurance, the Organization last week,went all the way to aggressively pursue the ‘Restoration of Confidence, Value in Local  Products and imported product’ via  campaign in a one day Sensitization /Awareness Forum held at ALABA INT’L Market for  Electrical Dealer Association of Nigeria (EDAN) members in Lagos State. 

    The Stakeholders were mobilized from different parts of electrical markets and malls in the  State. 

    Chief EmekaDuru, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) toMallam Farouk Salim, Director General (DG) SON who is also the Coordinator of the National Stakeholders Sensitization Program, in his opening address pointed out that “our stakeholders are key in SON’S drive towards standardisation and regulation which are geared towards ensuring that the general public have confidence in products and services”.

    He said that SON remains proud of those among our stakeholders who are doing well emphasizing that SON is committed to building confidence and value in their businesses. 

     Mallam Farouk, who was represented by Mrs.YesideAkinlabi, Director Lagos Operations, said in his keynote address that the forum was aimed at creating awareness on SON’S activities over the years and also to make them beneficiaries of the quality infrastructures being put in place for their economic growth in line with international best practices.

    He said Alaba International Market is an integrated electrical/electronics market and very critical and vital in the campaign. He further tasked the  electrical dealers on increased Local investment to checkmate substandard imports. 

    According to DG SON, “Indeed, the agency noted that 80 per cent of fake and substandard goods find their ways into the shores of Nigeria, advocating that investors should channel funds towards local production rather importing what the nation has the competitive advantage of producing”.

    In his words: “Alaba International Market, therefore, remains one of the major flashpoints for compliance, enforcement and monitoring exercises and always a big challenge.”

    The Director General, said he is pleased to collaborate with stakeholders in Alaba market in order to sensitize and help to co-opt all dealers  into the business of standardization.

    The SON boss stated that the sensitization would help operators to comply with regulations and enforcement as well as enable SON to showcase/ market its operational and regulatory tools.

    Mr. RichardAdewunmi, Director, Marketing took time to educate the importers on the importance of  adherence to standards to save lives and property. He noted that lack of adequate knowledge and information  about some products standards were also largely responsible for the increase of  importation of substandard products in the country

    He took time to enlighten the participants on how to process purchase order with the standard guidelines.

    “The required standard for product should be the bottom line for agreement, if not the exporting countries will send worthless product to the importer”

     He said sanitizing the market is the key role in servicing not only Nigerian domestic and industrial sector but also that of neighboring West African countries.

    He also pointed out that the Alaba International Market is known for its wide variety of electrical and electronics products for sale thereby attracting people from neighboring countries.

    “With over five thousand stores, excluding attachments and sub-shops, millions of people conduct business in the market everyday,” he said.

    Speaking further, he said, “As a matter of fact, SON will remain committed to ensuring that goods and services produced in the country meets global best standards” while appealing to investors in the  sector to drastically reduce the importation of substandard products in order to create job opportunities and prevent the use of the nation’s markets as dumping ground for inferior products.

    He said the essence of the forum is to provide a common forum for stakeholders concerning pertinent challenges in the sector, tackle critical issues on standards and quality requirements, strengthen collaborations amongst  relevant agencies and operators and check sub-standardization and dubious importers 

    He said other expectations of the event is to achieve a sanitized electrical/electronics sector, improved relations among the regulatory agencies and operators and ensure consumers have value for their money while also boosting employment, job opportunities via home-grown products  

    “As we all know, the federal government’s economic diversification, sustainability and growth plan places less emphasis on importation of all sorts of products into Nigeria especially sub-standard goods. SON is, therefore, at the forefront of driving the government’s agenda through standards enforcement,” he assured.

    Other SON’s personnel’s took  turns to speak onstandardization.

    The President of Electrical Dealers Association if Nigeria ( EDAN)  said the orientation was very important adding it would go a long way to support the importers to import quality goods.

    “We are now very equipped to import and even demand for our right incase of infractions. we support the SON under the leadership of Mallam Farouk Salim to achieve goals”.

    Most of the speakers commended the leadership style of Mallam Farouk Salim, describing him as a quite achiever. They also suggested that SON should make the forum more regular and also revisit it’s Off-Shore inspection of factories of exporting countries 

    Over 420 participants attended the sensitization/workshop

  • Abisola Salawu: Kaffy is a huge source of inspiration for me

    Abisola Salawu: Kaffy is a huge source of inspiration for me

    Abisola Salawu wears many hats. She is a model, ex-beauty queen, entrepreneur, singer and dancer. In this interview with YETUNDE OLADEINDE, she talks about her brand (Sochie), passion, motivation, mentors and more.

    What does being a fitness model entail?

    Most people think that once you go to the gym, come back, and become a fitness model that is all. But, it is beyond that. It is actually a career of determination. It’s self-determination, commitment, persistence and a lot of consistency.

    How did it start?

    For me, fitness started as a hubby and then it became something that I got used to and really helped me to be comfortable in my body because I love to be fit. I love to always be comfortable in my own skin and so fitness helped me that way. It actually evolved into a career and the experience has been awesome.

    Did someone introduce you to this?

    No! I discovered it because I am also into sports. In order to do sports, you have to be fit. I play basketball, I swim, although not as a professional. I used to be in the basketball team in my school but I didn’t take it professionally because I had a different plan for my life.

    What was the experience like playing basketball?

    It was fun. Just like fitness, it takes a lot of dedication. I went for pre-NUGA games and it was fun.

    Tell us about life as a model?

    I do fashion runway and fashion editorials.

    I have done Lagos Fashion Week, African Fashion Week. I have also done a lot of Editorials and Ad campaigns. I was in Beyonce’s Brown Skin Girl video that won the Grammy Award for Best Video. It was awesome. At the time, I was with a very strong agency in Nigeria and the booking came through them and I got other jobs as well.

    How would you describe the modeling sector in Nigeria?

    To be honest, I would say that the modeling industry has really evolved. It’s not what it used to be some five to ten years back. But, the aspect of payment needs to be improved on. Brands need to appreciate models more and not just dismiss the idea of using them as the face of their brands. I am not saying  that celebrities are not deserving but they should also look into using models too.

    How did your family react when you told them about going into modeling?

    At first they didn’t understand what I wanted to do. But, along the line they became enlightened and very supportive. There were challenges at first and they kept asking questions like why do you want to be a model? Models don’t wear clothes, models dress in certain ways and more. Along the line, I changed the notion, became a beauty queen and that changed the narrative.

    How did you get into the pageant?

    I would say that it was a result of influence from Miss World. The Miss World pageant is the number one pageant in the entire world. So, I’ve always been inspired by contestants and winners especially Agbani Darego, when she won.

    Interestingly, at the time I wasn’t even old enough to compete and participate in any pageant. But after a while, I applied for several pageants. I participated in Miss Nigeria, Queen Moremi  Ajasoro and many others and that was how I learnt from the different experiences. However, the most memorable for me is Miss Culturatti.

    In 2019, I emerged as the 1st Culturatti Queen. They had just rebranded from Sisi Oge and it was really exciting.

    What do you think made you win that pageant?

    Like every other career, you need to have something else that would put you forward. So, for me, I would say what made me stand out was my personality and talent. Looking down memory lane, I remember that it wasn’t just about beauty. At the same time, I also showed some level of intelligence. There is always a question and answer segment, always a boot camp where they see and ask questions about your activities and all that. That really helped. Of course, I also did my research. You need to know what’s happening in the beauty world, fashion scene and the world of pageantry. You need to know more and be enlightened about what is required of you.

    Did you have mentors?

    Yes! I have mentors but they were mentors that I had never been in contact with physically. I could only reach out to them through social media. Most of this people, like Oprah Winfrey does outreaches that I benefitted from.

    Indirectly, she mentored me as philanthropists. I was learning from her and so the power of Social Media cannot be underestimated.

    What are the things that you admire about Oprah?

    I like her life as a philanthropists, and just like people who have grown from grass to grace, she has really shown that no matter what you go through, there is always a green light, a bright light at the end of the tunnel. Challenges or no challenges you just have to keep going forward.

    Tell us about your experience in music. What type of music are you into?

    I do afro beat, afro pop, RnB and I sing. I released my debut EP in January and it is titled Hybrid and the reason for that title is because there is so many aspects to my life and talent. So, most people know me as a model and bringing the music part into it shows that I can groove and I want to bring you guys into it.

    What about the dancing part?

    Dancing has always been a part of me, since I was little. Kaffy is a huge source of inspiration. Back then, she was like the only female in Nigeria that was very prominent for dancing. She was in the Guinness Book of Records and that alone was an inspiration for me. So learning from her and how she evolved as a female amongst a male dominated industry is also an inspiration for me. I learnt how to dance myself, and then I danced with friends. I was the best female dancer in my university days, at the University of Ibadan.

    Where do you see yourself in the next few years?

    I see myself on the global stage. I have drawn inspiration from Burna boy, Wizkid and Tiwa Savage.

    But you know that Burna boy is controversial sometimes?

    Yes. But I think you need that stubbornness to show the world that yeah, I’m here to stay. One thing about professional Africans is that we don’t tell people what we want. They just give us what they want. So, you need to say what you want, why you need to stay and why they should want you.

  • Pray for Donald Trump, America – Prophet Samuel I O

    Pray for Donald Trump, America – Prophet Samuel I O

    Our Reporter

    Abuja based clergy, Prophet I O Samuel of Shiloh Word Chapel has pleaded with the world to pray for America and his President Donald Trump.

    In a post monitored on his Instagram handle @Prophet_i_o_samuel he posted American Politics; “I saw great Battle In America Nov Elections Pray Against Terrorist; Storms Of Riots Uncontrollable After The Elections But I Saw The Entire World Israel; England; Japan Europe Africa etc. Saluting President Trump; Pray For Who Will Take Over From Trump Next The End Is Near”.

    It will be recalled that on July 5th, 2020 somewhere in Apo Mechanic village in Abuja, Prophet I O Samuel predicted the just concluded Edo Governorship Election.

    Apart from giving the prophecy he met with both Obaseki and Ize-Iyamu and told them to embrace peace. In fact, he was the only man of God that met with both candidates.

    READ ALSO: More concerns trail Trump’s return to White House

    The Clergyman is known for his accurate prophecy that came to pass. He was the only prophet that revealed to Nigerians in his new year prophecy about Covid-19 and the wearing of face mask. In his new year prophecy to his congregation this year he warned Christians about persecution and the current controversial CAMA law which is presently tearing the country apart.

    Prophet I O Samuel is a well-respected man of God who doesn’t blow his trumpet despite several of his numerous prophecy that has been fulfilled. He has a prophecy for world leaders, Governors, businessmen, and the common man that has come to pass. His church in Apo in Abuja is a mecca of the sort to so many people seeking solutions to their problems.

    The respected man of God is well known for his charitable works and support of a lot of needy people in the society and even non-members have benefited from his kind-hearted gestures

  • Nigerian authors are deficient in book marketing – Kehinde Ajose

    Nigerian authors are deficient in book marketing – Kehinde Ajose

    Our Reporter

    Nigerian visibility strategist and author, Kehinde Ajose published his first book in 2015, he had to learn the hard way how to use unconventional methods to promote it.

    Ajose believes that authors need to treat their books like products in order to make enormous sales.

    In his words:” If congratulatory messages can be converted to cash, most Nigerian authors will be billionaires. Congratulatory messages are good, they encourage you to do more. But they cannot pay your bills .Learning the game of book marketing will. Nigerian authors are deficient in the art of marketing their books excellently.

    As an author you need to see yourself as a businessman. Your book is a product that needs to be promoted to make huge sales. We have left the era of thinking your book will sell just because it is well written. If nobody knows about your book and you fail to deploy the right book promotion strategies, you will end up sitting on your gold. Knowledge is the new gold, “he said.

    Speaking further, the Visibility Solutions Media boss noted that his new book ‘Author Visibility Secrets’ is a lifeline for authors who desire new ways of promoting their books.

    “My new book ‘Author Visibility Secrets’ will help authors to learn simple ways to promote their books and give it the visibility it deserves to get. When I wrote my first book ‘Donjazzyfied’, it gave me media exposure as I appeared on different media platforms to talk about it. Don’t ever think you don’t deserve media exposure. Tell yourself that you are someone media need. You need to believe the world needs to hear your message. Don’t discount yourself. It took me about a year to write this book because I had to be sure I am offering content filled with enormous value. Your book is gold, don’t hide it under the rock”.

    Ajose also opened up on his forthcoming ‘Author Visibility Online Summit’ taking place on August 14th-15th 2020.

    “The Author Visibility Online Summit’ is a virtual summits where revered authors and thought leaders will be sharing on various ways authors can profit from their expertise. The virtual venue would be on YouTube”.

  • Commission moves to serve aggrieved consumers more efficiently

    By Jill Okeke

    In order to serve the over 180 million consumers faster and better, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is set to launch an automated complaint system that will allow the agency to cascade consumer complaints directly to the affected companies for better and more efficient resolution with the aggrieved consumers.

    Director General of FCCPC, Tunde Irukera, made this known in Lagos on Wednesday during the maiden seminar titled ‘Competition and Consumer growth in the Nigerian business landscape’, organised by FCCPC in collaboration with Holler, a free Online platform that gives consumers a voice.

    Responding to questions from journalists, Irukera explained that the resolution framework in FCCPC is set up in such a way that the complaint resolution mechanism system does not cost the aggrieved customer anything.

    “Besides, we are working with companies to also set up their own resolution apparatus that will be of no cost to consumers but in a few weeks time, we shall launch an automated system where complaints will go directly to the companies concerned for resolution.”

    Speaking on fairness, the DG restated that there should a level of fairness across the board for consumers. “Consumers in the United States should not be treated better than consumers in Nigeria. Consumers of luxury goods should not get better treatment than consumers of cheap goods.”

    In her welcome address, the Chief Executive Officer [CEO] Holler, the Online platform powered by Elevato & Associates, Mrs. Marie Phido, noted that in recent times the voice of the customer and consumer advocacy has gained grounds and become an effective way to get better services from providers and to gain consumer’s trust.
    Calling on organisations to focus on ensuring the best interest of their customers, she said that it will enable them achieve their goals and have better chance of customers reciprocating with their trust and enduring loyalty.

    However, Phido regretted that given the conventional consumer relationships today, organisations and service providers struggle to deliver the desired goal of good customer service and satisfaction to their customers.
    “As we all know, customer satisfaction is widely regarded by scholars and practitioners as an important predicator of consumer loyalty which we do not see in Nigeria due to the quality of service received.”

    Nevertheless, she expressed satisfaction that in recent times, consumer rights awareness and competition are gaining grounds. “Customers are becoming aware of their rights, demanding that their rights are respected. They are now protesting market abuses and social injustice which affect them as consumers and all these affect customer growth,” she enthused.

  • Plastic recycling gets a boost

    The drive for plastic recycling got a boost as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and stakeholders in the food industry move to adopt a national policy for the life cycle of pet bottles.

    The regulatory agency and the food industry are collaborating to develop a standard for recycled plastic pet bottles to stop the menace of littering the environment with used plastics. The Director-General of SON, Mr Osita Aboloma, made this known at a Technical Committee Meeting on polymer and related products recently in Lagos.

    Aboloma said the move was coming on the heels of a recent coordination by the Federal Ministry of Environment to develop a national policy for the life cycle of plastics in the country.

    The director-general, represented by Director, Standards Development, SON,  Mrs Chinyere Egwuonwu, said the standard would improve production processes of plastics, ensure safety and the quality of products. According to him, this will lead to an increase of its use, which in turn provides opportunities for employment.

    The SON chief said it would also give consumers and producers the confidence that the products and services they were developing or using were safe and reliable while also keeping the environment safe.

    He said: “The recycling of pet bottles packaging represents one of the most successful and wide spread examples of plastic packaging recycling.

    “The growth in collection and processing of pet bottles for food packaging application has been increasing significantly over the last 10 years.

    “This has been accomplished by significant investments in plastic recovery facilities and food grade recycled pet processing.

    “The food and beverage recycling association of Nigeria remains the driving force for the development of this standard.

    “Today, we have a draft national policy on life cycle of plastics with recycling of plastic waste as one of the strategies.

    “The draft policy has been extensively discussed by all relevant stakeholders, and it is currently being processed for approval by the relevant government agency.”

    Aboloma urged stakeholders to study the document and come up with a workable standard that would guide manufacturers, promote trade and assist regulation to guarantee acceptability without compromising the safety of the product.

    Also, the chairman of the committee, Prof. Abiola Kehinde, commended SON for creating the platform for developing the standards.

    Kehinde said that it would go a long way to educate manufacturers on what was expected of them.

    Kehinde, who is of the Department of Chemical and Petroleum and Gas Engineering, University of Lagos, said that the meeting had created an opportunity for stakeholders to make inputs into the standards.

    It could be recalled that the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) – a coalition comprising Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd., Nigerian Bottling Company, Nestle Nigeria PLC, Seven Up Bottling company and Nigerian Breweries Plc – has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Lagos State government, through the Ministry of Transportation, to rid the state’s waterways of plastic and packaging waste.

    The pact is a three-year partnership between Lagos State and the FBRA to clean-up and prevent waste pollution from plastics and other food and beverage packaging, on Lagos State’s inland waterways.

    The programme, according to the group, will focus on evacuation for recycling of packaging waste collected from the four inland waterways – Five-cowrie Creek to Lekki; Marina through Elegbata and Osborne to Oworonshoki, waterways from Apapa through Kirikiri, Mile 2, Festac to Oke-Afa, and the Ikorodu Axis, which covers Ipakodo, Ibeshe, Baiyeku, Ijede and Badore.

    While the FBRA will provide funding for equipment, gears and personnel training, the Lagos State government will be responsible for structural civil works, managing execution, personnel, waste sorting centres and enforcement. FBRA and Lagos State government will jointly fund public awareness campaigns and advocacy on appropriate packaging waste disposal systems.

    The chairman of the FBRA, Mrs Sade Morgan, said that the development was “the culmination of months of positive collaboration between the FBRA steering committee and the Lagos State government. Tackling one of the biggest sustainability issues the world is facing today requires a collective approach, and as leaders in the industry, we understand the responsibility that we all have, to lead the way for the good of the environment, our communities and ourselves.

    “This development is just one step in the initial phase of a long-term commitment to effective plastic waste management. We are committed to tackling one of the biggest issues threatening the sustainability of our planet and are excited about the positive impact this will have on our industry, and the nation at large.”

    The then Commissioner for Transportation in Lagos State, Ladi Lawanson, said, “We are truly encouraged when the private sector proactively takes responsibility for the environment. Packaging is vital to assuring the safety and effectiveness of food and beverages, as well as products from other industries, from pharmaceuticals to personal care and beyond. However, pollution especially plastics poses considerable challenges to the sustainability of our environment.

     

     

    “The government has already made considerable headway in our clean-up efforts since 2016 and have seen the dividends of this. With this industry and government collaboration, we expect to see deeper impact that will benefit Lagos as a whole, as we boost water transportation and positively scale up activities on our waterways. I assure you that my colleague at the Ministry of Environment is equally pleased. Together, we look forward to working with the FBRA and other stakeholders for a cleaner environment and an effective water transportation system.”

    Efforts by the FBRA and its steering committee has so far recorded recycling of almost 1 billion bottles into fibre; over 1,800 direct employment on an average income of $6 per day (3 times the national average); as well as the creation of synthetic fibre for local industries and export.

  • Packaging industry witnesses revolution

    It was excitement and glitz as people from various walks of life abandoned everything even defying the current heavy traffic on Ibadan/Lagos road to witness the launch of the much-awaited carton manufacturing company in Ogun State by the governor, Prince (Dr.) Dapo Abiodun, alongside the CEO/Managing Director Jaro Industries, Mr. Kavin Vaswani.

    Leaving no stone unturned, the management of the company located along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, said they committed $12million which is about N43billion in the carton industry to meet international standards and top quality in order to meet the dynamic needs of their teeming consumers.

    According to Vaswani, 35% of the investment is family shares while 65% was sourced from banks. “We are ready to take extra miles to satisfy our customers. No sacrifice is too much for our consumers and that is why we left no expenses in order to give them the best; a product that will be able to complete favourably. Our quality speaks for us.”

    Speaking enthusiastically during a tour of the factory, Vaswani explained that the state-of-the art corrugation facility is designed with the capacity to deliver 3,000 tons PM, with the machines converting the craft paper into corrugation boxes, this will make it possible to produce and supply high quality corrugated carton to the satisfaction of our teeming customers.

    “We use the finest materials for our products. We source 70% of our raw materials from Nigeria while the remaining 30% which we cannot find here is sourced from abroad. We are happy to be sourcing most of the raw materials here because it makes it cheaper and easier for us,” noted the CEO.

    Explaining further, Vaswani, who was visibly excited, said, “The completion of this project is to further demonstrate the group’s commitment and belief in the Nigerian economy. I must say, there is a lot of potential for economic growth in Ogun State and that is why we have decided to take this bold initiative by citing the factory in this state, with the help of special partners like Bank of Industry, Access Bank and Standard Chartered Bank. We will be creating a direct employment of 250 as well as an indirect employment of 300 people, which we believe will go a long way in reducing the unemployment rate not just in the state but in the country. Further growth will only grow that number.”

    The project is in line with the Ogun State government’s drive for growth and development and the company has aligned its vision to help to grow the economy, particularly in the area of manufacturing. The group hopes to become the premier manufacturing company in West Africa by 2025.

    Abiodun, who was the special guest of honour, though represented by the Managing Director OPIC, Yemi Adesoye, expressed his delight at the speedy completion of the project. He said: “We are indeed very pleased to have you plant your factory in Ogun State, it shows we are doing certain things right, which has attracted you to our state. As a government, we would ensure that we give you all the necessary support you require for a smooth operation in the state. Once again, congratulations on this milestone achievement.”

    To witness the inauguration were specially invited guests which include traditional rulers, captains of industries, business associates, top management staff of Jaro Industries, community leaders and members of the press.

    The factory is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that meet international standards anywhere in the world. Some of the equipment in the facility include a state-of-the-art corrugation machine, a five colour fully automatic Flexo Printer and folder gluer, 6 ton boiler, glue kitchen, complete plant conveyor system, complete waste management system, compressors, residential buildings for employees as well as various amenities for the workers.

    Jaro Industries Limited is a subsidiary of Deekay Group, a corrugated fibreboard carton manufacturing company. The group started its operation in 1972 with trading business. After gaining competency in trading of various products, the group ventured into backward integration and started the manufacturing of exercise books and a printing and packaging business. The manufacturing part of the business has significantly grown to an appreciable level, positioning the company as the most sought after product in the market.

    Over the years, the group has grown from a small company to a major business house in Nigeria, in the process of growing the business operations which were scattered across various locations based on availability. Now there is an ongoing plan to expand manufacturing operations in Nigeria, aimed at encouraging backward integration and local content enhancement.

    Meanwhile, the Director General [DG] of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir, said that all nations that want to sustain their economy must pay attention to manufacturing as it is the only sustainable way to abolish poverty.

    While commending the Deekay Group for building the factory in just nine months which will contribute to creation of jobs, Ajayi-Kadir said the factory will also increase the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP.

    Responding to questions from journalists, he called on government to rescind its decision on Value Added Tax (VAT). He criticised the explanation given for the VAT increase; that it was to empower government to pay the new minimum wage. “The increase is just punishment for the poor. It is like giving one something with the right hand and taking it from that person with the left hand.”