The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Baobab

  • Baobab (Kuka) aims for national market

    Baobab (Kuka) aims for national market

    Without being too exaggerative, I believe  I can safely say that, in Northern  Nigeria, the Baobab  tree is as ubquitous as the cow. I began to develop interest in this tree, its fruits and leaves when  I learned from many of my friends from the north that the leaves were primary ingredients in the soups their mothers served at table during their childhood. The first sample packs I received from them in Lagos were sandy, suggesting they were exposed  to air and dust. I sieved  the powder  of sand  to no avail . Now, I enjoy factory-made Baobab leaf powder in practically all foods I eat… From rice, beans, yam porridge, corn porridge(pap),  plantain, soups, tiger nut juice to Edikang Ikong soup etc.

    The product label says: The leaves are used to not only thicken soups and stews but also used to prepare Danwake and other traditional dishes that can contain sweet potato, sorghum, cassava and cowpea flour. Peanut butter can also be paired with Kuka along with ginger and garlic to make sauce for rice, or couscous”.

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    Baobab leaf powder as a good source of vitamin C, is almost 50 percent fiber, two- thirds of which is soluble firber and the rest insoluble fiber. This makes it a potentially good PRE- BIOTIC. It is believed to be richer in anti-oxidants than  many other  whole foods.  The nutrients are easily bio-available.  Baobab  is believed to boost  immune potential, iron  absorption, encourage slow release of energy, promote digestion,support reptoductive health, ease collagen production, which  is good news for growing children  and adults in search of radiant organ and skin health . What is more… Baobab is very, very  Alkaline. Here is an idea a maveric cook shared with me about how to drink garri. Do not soak and drink it direct. It maybe too heavy in your stomach and intestine. Blend it, add Tiger nut juice, add Baobab powder. Blend again. You may drink this blend with a straw! The tiger but juice and the Baobab powder should  make the garri alkaline not acidic.

  • Baobab Nigeria records N37b loan size

    Baobab Nigeria records N37b loan size

    Baobab Nigeria has achieved a loan book size of N37 billion and an active loan clientele of 30,000 Nigerians as it continues to expand its operations across the country.

    The company has celebrated the official inauguration of its Benin branch, situated at Ikpoba Hill Slope, in Benin city. The event brought together top officials from Baobab Nigeria’s headquarters, Benin branch staff, government officials, and loyal customers who have already experienced the bank’s services.

    Deputy Chief Client Officer of Baobab Microfinance Bank,  Godwin Gabriel, praised the conducive business environment in Edo State. He underscored the bank’s unwavering commitment to supporting hardworking individuals and drew a parallel between the bank and the resilient Baobab tree, symbolising their dedication to providing shelter and support.

    Gabriel reflected on the bank’s journey, starting from its humble beginnings in Kaduna to its current status with 38 branches across 16 states in Nigeria. 

    He also revealed that the bank has been able to tackle the problem of individuals and business owners not being able to access saving options with good interest rates as Baobab offers diverse saving opportunities for business owners and individuals alike with good interest rates.

    According to Godwin, the bank’s core mission is to cater to the financial needs of underserved individuals in Edo State, with a primary focus on facilitating the growth of businesses that have encountered financial challenges.

    Read Also: Microcred Nigeria rebrands to Baobab

    He praised clients for their diligence in loan repayments and highlighted their testimonials as concrete evidence of the bank’s transformative impact on the local community.

    A notable highlight of the opening ceremony was the voices of satisfied customers who shared their experiences. Among them were Augustus Omokaro Eriaria, MD/CEO of Austrock Electronic, and Mr. Enwerem Patrick, MD of Pat Electrical. Their testimonials echoed the customer-centric approach of Baobab Nigeria, praising the straightforward loan application process that eliminated cumbersome paperwork.

    Ugbeche Kingsley, an official representing the Edo State government, commended Baobab for introducing a pioneering financial solution to the vibrant city of Benin. This expansion not only reflects Baobab’s commitment to financial inclusion but also offers the people of Edo State a valuable opportunity to tap into the transformative potential of the bank for a brighter economic future.

    Baobab Nigeria’s presence in Edo State signifies more than just a branch opening; it represents a beacon of hope for individuals and businesses striving for financial stability and growth in the region. With a track record of satisfied customers and a resolute dedication to its mission, Baobab continues to be a driving force for economic progress in Nigeria.