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5 Ways to Get Your Boss to Send You on a Cool Trip

travelers

One of the perks of civil service is that on certain occasions, workers get to go on cool trips either for work, meetings, training or team bonding exercises. The thing about these trips is that it is usually for a select few who have proven to be the best candidate for the opportunity.

So, you are a civil servant,  you want to get drafted for a really cool trip most of your colleagues have been canvassing for, but you do not know how to convince your boss to let you go…leap for joy, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking site has got you covered! Here are 5 ways you can convince your boss that that sending you on that cool trip is a smart move.

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Compose a strong, concise proposal

This may sound a little over the top, but it works all the time. Writing a proposal not only keeps your thoughts organized, it most times also impresses your boss, as it shows that you have done your homework and you take the opportunity seriously.  However, remember to keep the proposal short, relevant, and possibly witty.

Aptly defend your case

When you get the opportunity to speak to your boss about the trip, explain how the trip will not just be beneficial to you but to your company as a whole. Also, preemptively offer solutions to the downsides and offer solutions to them. If you  leave your boss to resolve the concerns that may come up by himself, there is a chance your request would  less likely be granted. For instance, if the cool trip is  for a training class that is not inclusive in your company’s budget, point out how the new skills you will gain from the training will save the department from hiring outside contractors in the future.

Portrait Of Happy African Businessman Sitting In Front Of Colleagues

Suggest but do not force

Do not kick up a fuss about going on the trip, this will mark you out as a ‘bad egg’ and possibly kill your chances of being nominated for any other trip ever again. Make your suggestions subtly, but very clearly and do not take any rashes decisions in the bid of proving you are the best nominee for the trip. Also, ensure you get the timing right before making your request. Ensure you consider the full landscape your boss is dealing with before you make your request. If your company is in the middle of cost-cutting or laying off staff, you may just want to stay mute.

Stay enthusiastic

Enthusiasm, passion and Energy are infectious and they have a way of opening a lot of doors. Before you set out to convince your boss about the trip, ensure your aura exudes confidence and enthusiasm, that way your boss will be more inclined to comply and give you what you are asking for. No matter how nervous, channel the nerves into excitement and it will certainly give off a positive vibe. Try not to overdo it though lest your boss views you as an “ass-kisser”.

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If you get a ‘No’, find out what it would take to change it

No matter how cheerful you are or how well-put-together your proposal is, there is still a chance that you will get a “No”, and sometimes, you need to be prepared to accept it. However, if you are -like Abraham Lincoln- determined, you could ask your boss what it would take to get a positive  answer. If the response is something you can quickly tackle, you may still be up for the trip, but if not, you can take the advice for the future.  For instance, if you’re turned down for limited budget, you could either offer to pay for your own fare or you apply early for priority consideration when the next opportunity comes.

Investments In Manufacturing, Agric, Industries Will Help Diversification Efforts – Skye Bank GMD

Skye Bank

The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Skye Bank Plc, Mr. Timothy Oguntayo, has called for massive investment in the manufacturing, agriculture and extractive industries for the success of the diversification program of the government.

Oguntayo said the three identified sectors were critical for the success of the economic diversification agenda of the current government in view of the dwindling oil prices, low GDP growth, and rising unemployment in the country. He said the manufacturing sector contributed 10 per cent of GDP before the oil boom of 1970s but lamented Nigeria’s over-dependence on oil export and earnings from the 1990s to date.

He said the over dependence on oil resulted in the neglect of the manufacturing sector; just as low investment in public goods and infrastructure led to the decline in manufacturing activities. He also advised manufacturers to access the earmarked N200 billion, Central Bank of Nigeria, and N200 billion Bank of Industry’s intervention funds to boost their operations.

Noting that commercial banks were not structured to provide long term funding but bridge finance, he said the Bank of Industry and NEXIM Bank should be strengthened to provide long term funding for manufacturers.

 

Naira Speculation Will End Soon – CBN

Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Financial Sector Stability, Dr. Okwu Joseph Nnanna has said that ongoing speculative attack on the naira exchange rate will soon end, and expressed optimism that speculators will have soon be caught and punished.

Dr. Okwu Joseph Nnanna made the assertion at a joint Appropriation Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives, which sat yesterday to harmonise views and to engage various organs of government on the 2016 Budget.

He added that as soon as the 2016 Budget is passed, the CBN would engage in extensive liquidity management that would put an end to the current volatility of the exchange rate.

Dulux Names ‘Monarch Gold as 2016 Colour of the Year

Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) Plc, a subsidiary of UAC of Nigeria Plc. (UACN), manufacturers of Dulux premium brand of paints and the technological licensee of AkzoNobel, world’s largest coatings company has named ‘Monarch Gold’ as the Dulux 2016 Colour of the Year.

This is in line with the AkzoNobel global tradition and Dulux brand leadership positioning in Colour mastery.

L-R, The Managing Director, CAP Plc., Mrs. Omolara Elemide; The Vice-Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Mr. Rogba Orimalade; The President, Dulux Decorators Club (DDC), Mr. Sam Unwene and The Marketing Manager, CAP Plc., Mr. Dominic Oladeji during the Special Briefing of Professional Bodies on the 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year (Monarch Gold) held at the CAP Plc. office in Ikeja, Lagos recently.
L-R, The Managing Director, CAP Plc., Mrs. Omolara Elemide; The Vice-Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Mr. Rogba Orimalade; The President, Dulux Decorators Club (DDC), Mr. Sam Unwene and The Marketing Manager, CAP Plc., Mr. Dominic Oladeji during the Special Briefing of Professional Bodies on the 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year (Monarch Gold) held at the CAP Plc. office in Ikeja, Lagos recently.
L-R, The Managing Director, CAP Plc., Mrs. Omolara Elemide; The Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Architect (NIA), Mr. Ladipo Lewis; The President, Interior Designers Association of Nigeria (IDAN), Ms. Titi Ogufere and The Marketing Manager, CAP Plc., Mr. Dominic Oladeji during the Special Briefing of Professional Bodies on the 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year (Monarch Gold) held at the CAP Plc. office in Ikeja, Lagos recently.
L-R, The Managing Director, CAP Plc., Mrs. Omolara Elemide; The Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Architect (NIA), Mr. Ladipo Lewis; The President, Interior Designers Association of Nigeria (IDAN), Ms. Titi Ogufere and The Marketing Manager, CAP Plc., Mr. Dominic Oladeji during the Special Briefing of Professional Bodies on the 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year (Monarch Gold) held at the CAP Plc. office in Ikeja, Lagos recently.
L-R, The Managing Director, CAP Plc., Mrs. Omolara Elemide; The Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Mrs. Adenike Said; The Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), Mrs. Adenike Ayanda and The Marketing Manager, CAP Plc., Mr. Dominic Oladeji during the Special Briefing of Professional Bodies on the 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year (Monarch Gold) held at the CAP Plc. office in Ikeja, Lagos recently.
L-R, The Managing Director, CAP Plc., Mrs. Omolara Elemide; The Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Mrs. Adenike Said; The Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), Mrs. Adenike Ayanda and The Marketing Manager, CAP Plc., Mr. Dominic Oladeji during the Special Briefing of Professional Bodies on the 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year (Monarch Gold) held at the CAP Plc. office in Ikeja, Lagos recently.

According to Dulux Colour Experts, the 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year- ‘Monarch Gold’    is chosen out of a broad palette of yellows that best represents the golden influence of this year’s colour trends. Monarch Gold captures a friendly palette but with a dark mysterious side that adds to its beauty

Speaking during a special briefing session with professional stakeholder bodies including; Interior Design Association of Nigeria (IDAN), Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Nigerian Institute of Architects, Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) and Dulux Decorators Club, the Managing Director, Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) Plc, Mrs. Omolara Elemide welcomed the esteemed stakeholders present and highlighted the company’s responsibility of communicating the annual global colour trend to Nigerians which has over the years been tagged the ‘Dulux Colour of the Year’.

“For the past 11 years, Chemical and Allied Products Plc. (CAP Plc.), a subsidiary of UACN Plc. and also the technological licensee of AkzoNobel, the world’s largest paint producer has been sensitizing Nigerians about the annual global trends, overriding mood and colour that embodies this overriding mood” she said

In his presentation on the 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year, the Marketing Manager, CAP Plc. Mr. Dominic Oladeji explained that this year’s Dulux Colour of the Year ‘Monarch Gold’ was derived from the overriding theme – ‘Looking Both Ways’ which attempts to strike a balance between two opposing worlds such as ‘Dark and Light’, ‘Heritage and Future’, ‘Words and Pictures’, and ‘The Grid and Letting Go’.

“The 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year is an exciting Colour, it radiates desire for luxury, it is very instructive especially at the moment of seemingly economic downturn, the Colour will inspire hope and positivity that at the end of the darkest part of the night comes light’’ he said.

He disclosed that the Dulux Colour of the Year is chosen based on a constant monitoring of emerging social, economic and design trends happening around the world where a panel of independent design experts from different fields of architecture, design and fashion all come together to determine key Colour trends which would fit the pattern each year.

“Every year AkzoNobel Global Aesthetic Center brings together a group of international experts and trend watchers from across the globe and from various discipline of design – architecture, textiles, product designs, graphics and research to discuss what they think will be the major global trends in the coming year. These trends are the basis on which the Colour of the year is nominated” he added.

Oladeji then urged customers and stakeholders in the building and construction value chain to experiment with ‘Monarch Gold’ in combination with any of the over 12,000 Dulux Colours to beautify homes and offices. He advised customers to visit the numerous Dulux Colour Centers (DCCs) and Dulux Colour Shop (DCSs) to meet with our well-trained Colour experts to help them in the makeover of their homes and properties.

It would be recalled that ‘Copper Orange’ was named as the 2015 Dulux Colour of the Year.

AIG, Parent Company of Jovago, Secures Over €300M of Funding From MTN, Rocket Internet, AXA and Goldman Sachs

Africa Internet Group (“AIG”), the parent of Jumia and Jovago, the leading ecommerce platform in Africa, has secured more than Euro 300 million in funding from new and existing investors, including the previously announced funding commitment from AXA, a worldwide leader in insurance and asset management. This new round of investment is led by existing investors including MTN and Rocket Internet as well as a new investor, Goldman Sachs. The funds will significantly strengthen the balance sheet of AIG enabling the company to leverage the significant growth of Jumia and Jovago and to capitalize on the significant opportunities in Africa.

“This investment is a recognition of the success that AIG has already achieved and provides us with a strategic flexibility to further support our efforts to offer the best shopping experience to our customers,” said Sacha Poignonnec and Jeremy Hodara, founders and co-CEOs of Jumia and AIG. “We are delighted to welcome AXA and Goldman Sachs as new investors and are also grateful for the continued confidence from our existing shareholders. To us, it is a recognition of the quality of our operations across the African continent and an affirmation of the significant growth potential of AIG.”

Jumia and Jovago, the leading ecommerce platforms in Africa, intends to use the funds to support its continued growth, and to execute on attractive development opportunities in Africa along with AIG’s other ecommerce platforms.

“Jovago’s strong performance in the last 2 years makes it one of the fastest growing hotel booking portal in the world and this investment consolidates our commitment to making travel more convenient and affordable for our customers in all Africa” says Paul Midy, CEO of Jovago

Since its creation in 2013 by AIG and the opening of its first offices in Africa, Jovago has been growing steadily. Its large inventory lists 25,000 hotels in over 40 African countries and 200,000 hotels worldwide. With its ongoing success, Jovago aims to accelerate the innovation of its digital services in the hospitality industry in emerging countries.

 

Implementation of N500 Billion Special Intervention Fund Not Possible in 2016 Budget – NASS

The chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriation, Sen. Danjuma Goje, has said that the implementation of N500 billion intervention fund contained in the 2016 budget proposal will not be feasible since there are no clear implementation strategies.

 He spoke at an interactive session with Ministry of Budget and Planning, Ministry of Finance, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Accountant General’s Office and other stakeholders in the economy.

According to Goje, he  noted that though the executive gave explanations about the implementation strategies, they were not satisfied. `There is no detailed, clear cut structure laid down for implementation of this project because what we have in this budget is N300 billion recurrent and N200 billion capital.

`We had to push hard yesterday to get some details which were not convincing. For instance, the explanation we got was that N5, 000 would be given to one million Nigerians. `Who would choose the one million people, what structures you have in place to make sure that you choose the right people

Goje noted that though the executive gave explanations about the implementation strategies, they were not satisfied. Goje pointed out that while the National Assembly was in support of the programme, implementing it in 2016 might not be feasible. He suggested that the money be added to the budgetary allocation for sectors like power, transport and health, while those responsible would map out better strategy against 2017.

Responding, the Minister of Budget and Planning, Mr Udoma Udo Udoma, said that the special intervention programme was a political commitment which the present administration would not hesitate to fulfill. He promised to meet with relevant stakeholders to discuss on better strategies for its implementation.

The chairman reiterated the need for more budgetary allocation to agriculture and solid mineral sectors in view of the emphasis on diversification. On diversification, the minister said that the N9 billion allocated to solid minerals and N43 billion to agriculture would help to create an enabling environment for private investment.

Stanbic IBTC Insurance Brokers Begins Operations

Stanbic IBTC Insurance Brokers is set to provide bespoke risk management and insurance services in Nigeria. The company announced that it has commenced full operations sequel to the granting of a licence by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) in January 2016, paving the way for the firm to offer the full spectrum of insurance brokerage services, a development that will help in deepening insurance penetration in Africa’s largest economy.

According to the broker, global best practice, including facilitatory prompt payment of claims, will underline the operations of Stanbic IBTC Insurance Brokers as the insurance brokerage firm enters the Nigerian market.

Part of the Stanbic IBTC Group, which has a clear focus on Corporate and Investment Banking, Personal and Business Banking and Wealth Management, the new business broadens the scope of financial services offered by the group while widening its holding company structure.

Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Insurance Brokers, Mr. Anselem Igbo, said the business was established to fill perceived gaps in the industry, part of which includes helping clients effectively manage their risks and claims processes, thereby ensuring peace of mind through risk transfer, efficient insurance claims payment and exceptional quality of service.

On claims management, Igbo stated, “We believe that the test of any insurance arrangement is in prosecuting claims to a satisfactory conclusion for our clients. Our role as brokers also ensures that insurers, as a matter of obligation, pay claims equitably and promptly.  Prompt payment of claims is a key factor in any insurance contract. We continuously develop key relationships and requisite logistical processes to ensure that your claims are promptly settled.”

Whilst benefiting from a strong, dynamic and vast group structure, Igbo said the company will be differentiated from the competition as it will be driven by a team of reputable and financially strong underwriters; fully customized solutions, and innovative insurance products at no additional cost to the client. “Stanbic IBTC Insurance Brokers’ professional services are at no additional cost. We will negotiate your insurance premiums and get the best quotes available,” Igbo said.

“Our services apply to both individuals and corporate entities. Our services are also offered to both existing customers and non-customers of the group. As insurance professionals with a vast knowledge of the workings of the insurance market, we are able to arrange the most suitable policies for our individual and corporate clients. We proffer advice on the management of risk, secure protection against such risk and reduce exposure to the risks of business disruption, injury and death. We also deliver creative risk management solutions that enable our clients create, protect and preserve wealth,” Igbo stated.

He added that in an industry inundated by a persistent lack of trust and confidence from customers, the reputation of an insurer in Nigeria is critical to its success. “We are proud that the brand strength of the Standard Bank Group, to which Stanbic IBTC Holdings belongs, echoes stability, financial strength, expertise and reliability. Consequently, we believe customers who truly want to protect the people they love will put their trust in the reliability we offer. We will work tirelessly to provide the best solutions and service to our clients. We are motivated and determined to continue to deliver innovative and optimal insurance and risk management solutions to our clients.”

Stanbic IBTC Insurance Brokers Limited is a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, a member of Standard Bank Group, a full-service financial services group with a clear focus on three main business pillars – Corporate and Investment Banking, Personal and Business Banking and Wealth Management. Standard Bank Group, to which Stanbic IBTC Holdings belongs, is the largest African bank by assets and market capitalization. It is rooted in Africa with strategic representation in 20 countries on the African continent, including South Africa. Standard Bank has been in operation for over 153 years and is focused on building first-class, on-the-ground financial services institutions in chosen countries in Africa and connecting other selected emerging markets to Africa and to each other, applying sector expertise, particularly in natural resources, globally.

NASS To Approve 2016 Budget On March 17

The National Assembly has categorically stated that it will pass the proposed 2016 Appropriation Bill into law on Thursday, March 17, 2016.

According to the chairmen of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Appropriation, Senator Danjuma Goje and Hon. Jibrin Abdulmumin respectively, the committees said they will lay their final collated reports before both chambers on Wednesday, March 16 after which it will be considered and passed the next day.

Senate Appropriation Committee chairman, Senator Goje said a lot of diligent efforts had been put into the 2016 Budget, adding that the two chambers have interacted with the various Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDA’s).

House of Representatives counterpart, Hon. Jibrin said that a lot of hard work has been put into the reports from the various sub committees to make sure it aligns with the National Assembly guidelines.

“After all consultation with the leadership of the House and Senate we can confirm to you that all things being equal we should be able to lay our report of the 2016 Appropriation bill before the House and the Senate on the 16th of March and the consideration, hopefully should be done on the 17th.

“So it is safe for us to conclude that the 2016 Appropriation bill will be passed on the 17th of March 2016.

 

Jigawa State Awards Over N1 Billion Contract For Renovation Of Schools

Jigawa state Universal Basic Education Board has awarded contract worth over $1bn for the construction and renovation of classrooms in various primary and post primary schools across the state.

According to the executive chairman of the board, Alhaji Salisu Zakari, work has already commenced at 223 schools and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of this year. He noted that, the contract include construction of new class rooms and staff offices at 67 schools and renovation of similar structures at 156 schools.

Zakari also disclosed that another contract for the purchase of 5,000 units of pupils seats and 2,000 for teachers was also awarded at the coast of N99m.

He stated that the project was awarded after accessing the 2013 UBEC funds following the state government’s release of N600m counterpart funding.

“The board had also embark on massive teachers training to enhance their teaching capacity to meet with the governor Badaru-led government policy in revitalizing and repositioning the state primary education.”

He said the board in collaboration with Teachers Development Programme (TDP)  Educational Sector support programme in Nigeria(ESSPIN) trained over 2,000 teachers across 27 local government for achieving the desired goals .

UNICEF Condemns Surge In Cases Of Malnutrition In Gombe

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has urged Gombe State government to urgently address the rising cases of malnutrition affecting children in the state.

The Chief Nutrition Officer of UNICEF in Nigeria, Dr. Argan De-Wagt, has alerted the state governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, on its need to intensify efforts to save the lives of malnourished children in the state. He said it would help to reduce cases of malnutrition in the state.

Wagt estimated that 36 per cent of children in Nigeria are affected by malnutrition, with Gombe State alone recording about 50 per cent.

“The indicator in the north is not so good, 10 per cent of children are disadvantaged because even nursing mothers are not properly nourished.

Most critical days are from pregnancy to first one thousand days of a child. If the nutritional stage by this period is not attained, mortality rate becomes very high.”

He added that exclusive breastfeeding is important because the breast has all the nutrients needed.

Deepening Women’s Financial Inclusion: Diamond Bank Partners with Women’s World Banking, MTN to Develop Global Model for Digital Financial Services

Diamond Bank, in collaboration with ICT company, MTN and global nonprofit; Women’s World Banking, is unveiling the next phase of the Diamond Y’ello account through an innovative partnership aimed at deepening the financial inclusion of women in Nigeria.

With support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this partnership seeks to build understanding of what it takes to make digital financial services work for low-income women. The Diamond Y’ello account will be developed as a global model for expanding women’s access to and usage of digital financial services through simplified steps in account opening and banking transactions, using mobile phones.

Diamond Bank’s CEO, Uzoma Dozie, stated that the Bank is very passionate about the financial wellbeing of women, noting that the strategic focus of this project is to enhance the financial lifestyle of women by providing convenient mobile banking services.

“Diamond Y’ello is an account you open without the documentation and other rigours associated with traditional accounts. We are aware that the future of financial inclusion is digital, and we aim to use this product to bring banking to everyone no matter your income, where you live or the type of mobile handset you are using,” Dozie said.

Diamond Y’ello, first launched in Nigeria in 2014, is a mobile-based bank account opened instantly through the customer’s mobile phone in a few simple steps and is available to MTN’s over 63 million subscribers and potential subscribers. Industry insiders hail Diamond Y’ello account as a unique financial product that helps not only to optimize the use of mobile phones in carrying out full banking services, but also serves as an effective means of spreading financial literacy in urban, semi urban and remote areas.

Research by Women’s World Banking has shown that women are inherent savers, managing to save an average of 10 to 15 percent of their earnings despite low and often unpredictable incomes. According to Mary Ellen Iskenderian, President and CEO of Women’s World Banking, Diamond Y’ello, is a convenient digital banking product that offers a solution to the myriad challenges confronting low-income women who find it difficult accessing a safe place to save due to mobility and time constraints.

“We are thrilled to continue our valued partnership with Diamond Bank to use technology to bring vital financial services closer to Nigerian women. This support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation gives us the opportunity to work with Diamond Bank and MTN to build on their innovative product and ensure that Diamond Y’ello helps women throughout Nigeria achieve their savings goals and build a brighter future,” said Iskenderian.

Iskenderian also noted that the collaboration will enable Women’s World Banking to conduct in-depth research to better understand the barriers that Nigerian women face when accessing financial services, adding that they will work with Diamond Bank and MTN to develop strategies to break down these barriers, including educational marketing approaches, training programs for banking agents, mobile tools and other product features. The lessons will be used as a model to foster the expansion of women’s access to and usage of digital financial services around the world.

According to Ferdi Moolman, MTN Nigeria’s CEO, ICT is universally recognised as a significant enabler of socio-economic growth and MTN is honoured to play a part in numerous ways, one of which is this partnership. A key strategic objective of the partnership is not only to stimulate and expand women’s access and usage of formal banking but also to help reduce the biting effect of poverty using technology.

“Technology is a tool that should make life easier for people, especially low-income women who face many challenges with accessing formal banking services. Our partnership aligns with MTN’s overarching strategy to contribute to building a more vibrant economy, powered by technology. This is what underpins our business operations at MTN – enriching lives in line with our brand essence and acting as a catalyst for Nigeria’s socio-economic growth and development”.

Only MTN subscribers have access to a Diamond Y’ello account, which is activated by dialing *710# on any MTN line. Currently, over 6.2 million Diamond Y’ello account holders are serviced by over 26,000 agents. Benefits include easy access to the Diamond Y’ello account holders’ community, full banking services with interest on account balances and access to funds transfer, bill payment and airtime purchase via application from the subscriber’s mobile device on demand.

Oil Sector Workers Apprehensive Over Fear of Mass Sack

Workers in the oil and gas sector, under the umbrella of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), have expressed apprehension over reports that oil companies may lay off their workers following the fall in revenue as a result of the slump in oil prices.

Recent reports suggest that Chevron and Royal Dutch Shell, have unveiled plans to sack 18,500  of thier employees globally, including those in their services in Nigeria in 2016. While Shell revealed its plans to sack 10,000 staff and slash direct contractor positions in the company’s unedited full year 2015 results, Chevron announced it would continue the process that began in 2015, and complete the sacking of 8,500 staff in its services globally by the end of 2016.

NUPENG in a statement by its president, Igwe Achese, described the planned sack as alarming, warning that it may be forced to embark on industrial action if the federal government fails to stop the companies from sending oil workers in Nigeria to the unemployment market. After a scheduled meeting between the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, and a majorirty of oil companies in Nigeria, the minister called on operators in the sector to shelve such plans so as to avoid throwing the nation into a huge social upheaval.

Speaking on behalf of the International Oil Compananies (IOCs) at the meeting, which included Agip, Mobil producing, Chevron Addax and Total, the Director of Human Resources and Medical, Chevron Nigeria Limited, Ihuoma Onyearughe, appealed for understanding and collaboration on the part of the government in view of the current challenges facing the industry.

“The issue of laying people off is not a decision that comes lightly. I will not come here to tell you that people are being laid off or not. The situation in the oil company is dire. We want to ask for more understanding in appreciation of the challenges we face.

EFCC Reveals How Ex-CDS Badeh looted N3.9 Billion in 12 Months

 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has filed 10 counts of money laundering against the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh (retd.), accusing him of removing a total sum of N3.9 billion from the accounts of the Nigerian Air Force between January and December, 2013.

Another judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja, Justice James Tsoho, had on Monday fixed March 4 (Friday) for ruling on Badeh’s bail application. The anti-graft agency in the charges, numbered FHC/ABJ/CR/46, 2016, accused Badeh and Iyalikam Nigeria Limited of spending the total sum of N3,974,362,732.94, on acquisition, construction, renovation, furnishing of various properties, including a shopping mall in many choice areas of Abuja.

It was reported that he purchased so many properties like land, houses in Abuja. The sum of N60m was said to have been paid for the renovation of the property and another N90m to furnish the property.He is also accused of allegedly paid N330m to one Honourable Bature to purchase a duplex at No. 14 Adzope Crescent, Off Kumasi Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja.They were also accused of paying N240m to Rabiu Isyaku Rabiu to buy a semi-detached duplex at No. 8A Embu Street, by Sigma Apartment, Wuse II, Abuja. Renovation of a private property was also done with the sum N62m. Badeh’s unlawful activies was described as a criminal breach of trust and corruption.

N25 Billion ETF Will Help Raise More Entrepreneurs, Artisans – Ambode

Lagos State government yesterday began the process of raising new entrepreneurs and artisans by inauguarting the N25 billion Employment Trust Fund (ETF).

Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode at the inauguration ceremony said the feat is a realisation of his campaign promise to establish an Employment Trust Fund. He said the initiative was a paradigm shift in positively and productively engaging the teeming youths of the state.

The governor stated that the establishment of the fund marked a turning point in the responsiveness of government to the yearnings of the youth and unemployed people.

Ambode described the ETF as an instrument designed to galvanise the creative and innovative energies of all Lagosians, adding that the fund would only be available to Lagosians and residents of the state.

He added that  members of the ETF board were carefully selected based on their track records of professional integrity and selflessness, and therefore charged them to make transparency and accountability their watchwords.

 

Reps Implore CBN To Provide Forex For Foreign Students

The House of Representatives has asked the Central Bank of Nigeria to make a special provision for Nigerian students studying overseas to have access to foreign currencies at the official rates for the payment of their fees. It said this is imperative because parents and guardians of such students had been experiencing difficulties in accessing FOREX.

The House suggested that the CBN could address the needs of the students by creating a desk office charged with the responsibility of collating data on Nigerian students studying abroad.

In a resolution in Abuja, it said the FOREX could be released to the students on a monthly basis to cater for their fees and other allowances. It followed a motion moved by Mr. Musa Sarkin-Adar and 76 other lawmakers.

Leading the debate, Sarkin-Adar stated, “The insufficiency of foreign currencies has made it difficult for Nigerians to freely conduct foreign transactions, especially the payment of school fees and medical bills, as well as exchange of foreign goods and services.”

It enjoined the CBN to appoint some commercial banks for the project and ensure that the list of the beneficiaries was made public periodically.

 

FG’s Transportation Policy Will Enhance Industry’s Growth – El-Rufai

Gov. Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State on Thursday said the Federal Government’s transportation policy was geared towards the growth of the industry and job creation. He made the assertion when he paid a courtesy visit to the corporate office of Arik Air in Lagos.

“Transportation is important. The Federal Government is aware of that and we need to all advocate for the creation of appropriate policy environment for the growth of the transportation industry. Aviation is a key part of that inter-modal system of transportation. The government is aware and it will do the right thing,’’ he said.

El-Rufia revealed that the purpose of the visit is to find out how the Kaduna State Government can partner with Arik Air, which is the largest indigenous airline operator in Nigeria.

He also called for the resumption of Arik Air’s overnight flight to Kaduna which was stopped in September 2015 and also increased frequency in its flight operations to the state.

The Deputy Managing Director, Arik Air, Capt. Ado Sanusi, responded saying, aviation was the catalyst for economic growth of any state, adding that it was a key factor in transportation.

He assured the governor that Arik Air would soon resume its overnight flight and also increase its flight frequency to the state.

 

Non-Oil Export to Hit $25bn by 2025 – NEPC

The Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), said it has developed a ‘zero oil’ plan that would increase Nigeria’s total value of world export in strategic sector in 10 years time by 5 per cent.It says earning from the country’s non-oil export revenue will increase from the present $2.7 billion to $25 billion by 2025, reviving the nation’s dwindling economic misfortunes and reducing its dependent on oil.

Olusegun Awolowo who is the Executive Director of NEPC, who disclosed this on Thursday in Benin, Edo state, at a one-day workshop tagged “Export Contract, the Legal Perspective,” said the fall in oil in world economy has decreased Nigeria’s economic fortunes and rendered foreign exchange almost useless.He was represented by Barr. Ezra Yakusak, stated that the council has developed a ‘zero oil’ plan that would increase Nigeria’s total value of world export in strategic sector in 10 years time by 5 per cent.‎ “The zero plan is a coherent agenda to mobilize the public and private resources towards replacing oil as our number one resources of foreign exchange.

“Under this plan, Nigeria will position itself to gain at least a 5 per cent share of total value over the next 10 years to ensure sufficient scale of production and prevent sudden market distortions.“At the end of the ten years, it is hoped that our Non-oil export Revenue would increase from $27.7 billion to $25 billion in 2015,” he said.

Earlier in her speech, the Benin Zonal Coordinator of the NEPC, Mrs. Uduak Etokowoh, noted that the challenges currently facing Nigeria’s economy is a resultant effect of the total neglect witnessed in non oil export businesses. Etokowoh said the only way out of the Economic woes is through “imbibing the non-export culture” as the most viable option and efficient road map to the nation’s economic recovery. She therefore urged exporters and other stakeholders to embrace non oil export as an alternative to oil.

On his part, the Special Adviser to the Edo state government on Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, Mr. Daniel Akherenle, said the training will remind participants and broaden their horizon of legal perspective in the export industry.

NLC Urges FG To Refurbish Petroleum Sector

The Nigerian Labour Congress has urged the Federal Government to overhaul the petroleum sector and ease the hardship the citizens are facing due to recurring fuel scarcity.

The President, NLC, Ayuba Wabba, stated that the failure of the government to carry out the turnaround maintenance of the refineries had left the country open to manipulation by oil companies, adding that it was possible to revamp the refineries within one year as was done in the Republic of Niger. He also urged the government to intervene and enforce the sale of petroleum products as some marketers were hoarding the products.

“We restate our call for the speedy reactivation of local production of petroleum products as the country will continue to be held hostage by global economic manipulations if we remain tied to the importation of petroleum products, even when we have the resources to produce for local consumption and export.

“While it is regrettable that bad governance, misplaced priorities and corruption have almost killed the petroleum industry; we believe a serious government can revamp the industry within one year. There are examples of countries, especially the neighbouring Republic of Niger, where one of the best refineries was built within a year. Nothing stops this government from doing same,” he said.

“We will not accept a situation where major oil companies operating in Nigeria will have refineries in other countries where they ship our crude for refining and sell what they refined from our crude through importers of petroleum products to our country. Why have they not built their own refineries in Nigeria?” he asked.

Lassa Fever: NYSC Confirms Death Of Corp Member

The National Youth Service Corps has confirmed the death of a corp member, Dr. Kelechi Ogboji, a medical doctor who passed away after treating a patient suspected of having Lassa fever in Kaduna State.

Ogboji, a native of Igweledoha Amagu in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was serving at St. Louis Hospital Zonkwa in Zango Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The Director-General of the corps Brig. General Johnson Olawumi, represented by the Director of Corps Welfare and Inspectorate, Mr. Michael Ahile, extolled the virtues of the deceased during a formal condolence visit to his family.
He described the late doctor as “an exceptional corps member who was fully dedicated to his duties and in the process paid the supreme sacrifice”.

The NYSC DG called on corps members serving in health institutions to always apply standard precautionary measures while discharging their duties to protect themselves.

Growing Population Can Increase Local Food Production – Minister

The minister of agriculture and rural development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, has said that the country could put the growing population into good use by increasing local production of food crops.

He said, “In four years time our population will be 200 million people and we can put that population into good use if we have the capacity and become more organised like the Chinese or Indians.”

The minister maintained that there is an urgent need for the country to grow more food crops in order to meet the demands of its growing population and seek for more support from the international community towards the sustainable development of the agriculture sector. He said the sector would require international support in its programmes and initiatives, such as the cattle breeding improvement, climate change, standardisation and certification of food products, seed development and improvement, capacity building, among others.

Ogbeh further sought the assistance of The Netherland Government on area of machineries that could convert shafts from rice mills in the country to briquettes for household uses, adding that the present administration was poised to take life back to the rural areas, mostly for women and the youths.

The Netherlands’ Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr John Groffen who led the delegation said that the purpose of their visit was to explore areas of collaboration with the ministry, describing the challenges facing the nation’s agricultural sector as enormous. He assured the ministry of the continued support of The Netherlands Government in up-scaling the growth of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

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