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Home GrownMy Lagos The Flygeria
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independence issue ISSN 1758-6275
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THE FACE BOOK
GENERATION AND
NIGERIA AT 50
Nigeria at 50 The Growth of the Telecoms Industry
for what we were, are and will be
Nigeria @ 50
Credits:
Published by:
Publisher: Dayo Elegbe
Chairman: Foluso Phillips
Editor: Funke Adetutu
Writers: Joke Areola, Tola Idowu, Nkiru Asika, Ayo Tokunbo, Elizabeth Ole, Ifeoma Jennifer Areh, Paul Ayim, Soromfe Uzoma, Caroline Adeola Akinlotan, Lola Agbaje, Wendy Emesie,Toyin Adesola.
Advertising Sales (UK): Korede Atiba ([email protected])
Sales and Distribution: : Ayo Elegbe([email protected])
Art Director: Nick Lay
Subscriptions: Sam Omoruyi
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Contact Details
NIGERIA: Odiri Etireri 4th floor UBA House, 57 Marina, Lagos, Nigeria
Tel: 018104856, 08066638029
Email: [email protected]
Reproduction in full or part of any contents of NaijaTimes magazine (without prior written consent from the Publisher) is strictly prohibited. Individual advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their advertising
naijaTimes
Up & Coming Writers
Ieoma Jennifer Areh:
With a BSc in Sociology from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology Enugu, Ifeoma presently consults as an Image Coach. She currently enjoys reading good books and writing.
Elizabeth Ole:
This creative 20yr old - currently studying Psychology at the University of Lagos - is absolutely passionate about writing, something she has been doing “seriously” since the age 13.
Welcome to the naijaTIMES independence Issue.
Publisher’s note
As Nigeria celebrates 50 years of independence, there is a lot to reflect upon.For many, Nigeria is the epicenter of black African cultural expression, with ever increasing numbers of people consuming Nigerian produced movies, music, fashion and literature. Her sphere of influence goes way beyond the shores of its gigantic population of 150 million people.
In this issue we celebrate Nigeria and her people, and hope that the next 50 years will see her become even greater. Hope you enjoy the “Independence” inspired features in this special edition. As always we welcome your thoughts and feedback, and sincerely thank you for your continuing support.
God bless, - Dayo Elegbe
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naijaTimesIn The Next Issue...
We are currently planning a bumper Christmas Edition…that you can be a part of…Simply visit www.naija-times.com and let’s know what you would want to see in this issue….Who should be on the cover? Whose Lagos do you want to hear about?
Make sure you don’t miss out, subscribe to NaijaTimes, and have your own copy delivered to your door.
Visit www.naija-times.com/subscribe-today for more
THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN NOVEMBER1. The Muson Festival of the arts, the Muson Centre, Lagos. 25th 0ctober- 7th November
2. Lagos Photo, the first major annual photography festival in Nigeria. Eko Hotels, 8th October -9th November.
3. Brand Director’s Conference, 11th November, 11am at the Muson Centre, Lagos
4. Abuja Carnival: Each November Nigeria’s capital city hosts all of the nation’s 36 states during the Abuja Carnival.
independence issue
Travel & CultureCan Tourism Be Bigger Than Oil 8My Lagos 10I Am Nigerian 14
Fashion & LifestyleThe Flygeria 16The Hope Of 9ja 22From IO with Love… 24
CampusThe FaceBook Generation andNigeria at 50 26Thoughts on Nigeria@50Facebook poll! 28
Careers and DevelopmentThe Earning in Learning 30Rolling the dice at 50 32‘My Avatar’ Tee-shir ts 36
Cover StoryMy Countr y Nigeria! 38
Digital AgeDigital Age Facebook Fanpages 40Nigeria at 50 - The Growth of theTelecoms Industr y 42‘EKP’-Why choose Net Dimensions’Entreprise Knowledge Platform LMS? 45
EntertainmentAnd the winner is… 46Looking for corporate relaxation?Try TGIF. . 48Home grown 50Glo Naija Sings- The Takeover 53A New Mobile Frontier 54I LOVE HER (scoin-scoin and all...) 58
HealthImportance of New Born Screening inSickle Cell Anaemia 63
The ShopMysterious shopper 65
DirectoriesBusiness Listings 76
My Country Nigeria! 38
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Travel & Culture
Leisure based tourism is a reliable income generating resource and capital contributing avenue that should not be under-estimated.Tourism is “the activities of persons travelling to and staying in places outside of their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year, for leisure, business and other purposes”.
Nigeria is a West African country, whose national census on its last count indicated a population of more than a hundred million people. This number means that it is one of the most populated states in the world which automatically brings on the concern of how it will fend for such a massive number of people, that is, whether the capital that it generates yearly would provide it, with the ‘ability to function according to purpose’.
The good news is, like this borrowed popular saying stipulates, ‘God does not give you a problem that you can’t solve’ and by that stroke of grace, Nigeria’s has been blessed with crude oil which is known as black gold because it is one of the most desired and revered natural resource that most countries pray, hope and even fight for, for the purpose of sustaining themselves.
Crude oil ownership notwithstanding, it has been found that Nigeria, based on prescribed markers put forward by the World Bank is being referred to and listed as fitting into the category of one of the least developed countries in the world. The good news here is that, tourism as a product has been found to be a major
revenue generating avenue. The viability of tourism is based on the fact that as a product, it is unique. This is because nations can generally tailor their “culture, beliefs, national past-times and monuments as central tourist attractions around which, basic recreational, relaxation and necessary survival amenities required during a holiday or business travel is built. This therefore means that the market will not be bored or oversaturated with the elements of tourism because all countries have different things on offer, which then guarantees the capital generating power of tourism.
Finally, the viability of tourism as a worthy income generating resource was thoroughly buttressed by the statements in the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) report that lists the total revenue generated by the United States of America based on its receipts from tourism in year 2007 alone was $96.7billion. The report also pointed out that America didn’t even have highest international tourist arrivals for said year.
Nigeria having such diverse tribes, cultures, traditions and monuments would definitely be able to benefit from harnessing and packaging, tourism as a product. It is therefore not an overstatement to say that the earning capacity of tourism as a product is not only enormous and should not be taken for granted but should in fact be promoted in a country such as Nigeria whose capital deriving ability can use the financial boost that tourism proceeds will provide for such a densely populated area.
Joke Areola
Can Tourism Be Bigger Than OilTourism: A Viable Income Generating Resource for Nigeria
Travel & Culture
Jimi Agbaje
My Lagos “I like to tell people that Lagos ‘bubbles’. I love the fact that there is always an activity here and there.”
Born in Lagos, raised in Apapa and Victoria Island, one doesn’t get more Lagos than pharmacist Jimi Agbaje. Popular amongst the “Apapa crowd”, he attended Corona school, Apapa and later St Gregory’s college, Obalende.
Though he then left the “city of excellence” to study at University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where he met his wife, Abiola, who he later married in 1982, Lagos has always been dear to his heart. He shares his Lagos with us.
Lagos sizzles! I like to tell people that Lagos ‘bubbles’. I love the fact that there is always an activity here and there. You never get bored. If anything, you need to run away now and again from over activity of Lagos life.
I love the independence Lagos gives. It is not the typical ‘civil service state’ that most States of the Federation are, where government’s influence is overarching. Government is a ‘minority’ employer in Lagos, making its influence on the individual minimal.
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Lagos has culture and history. This makes me a proud Lagosian.
I don’t “hate” anything about Lagos. Rather, there are many areas I would like improved in the city-state. For example, I would love to see more indigenous Lagosians hold their own with the non-indigenes in the development of the state. It would also be my joy to see more ‘self-autonomous’ areas in different parts of Lagos as a way of decongesting Lagos Island and its environs. I would love to see Lagos grow into a Dubai, Johannesburg or New York.
Lagos remains the commercial nerve centre of the country and therefore presents itself with the positive and negative attributes of such.
For the upwardly mobile, Lagos is where the action is. It presents the jobs to sustain the lifestyle of the global village, blackberry phones, fashion, cars, etc.
Lagos presents the equivalent of the ‘American dream’ in Nigeria; a melting pot of sorts. It is home to many, irrespective of state of origin. Lagos remains the liveliest of all states in the federation, including Abuja. It boasts of the best in entertainment with film houses, clubs, restaurants, concerts and shows. Looking for good parties? Then, you should be living in Lagos.
The downside is of course the tremendous pressure on the infrastructure. Inadequate road network, traffic, overpopulated metropolis, high cost of living.
The freedom I had as an adolescent, to enjoy myself with little dependence on my parents, was amazing. It was fun to go to cinemas, parties and visit friends using public transport. There were no airs or looking down on such means of public transport. There was no need to wait for daddy,
mummy, uncle, auntie, big brother or sister to provide a car or even money for expensive cabs or taxis. We were all down to earth. This allowed me explore and enjoy Lagos.
I also have fond memories of my secondary school life in boarding house. It was so much fun; another melting pot too. You lived with people of different backgrounds, got into mischief together, got punished many times too. It prepared me substantially for my future. I still remember my first kiss.
There was an innocence and absence from worry; the freedom to be myself. As a child, ‘everyday was a holiday’. The only headache then was passing your exams very well. There were no other issues to weigh you down except punishment for rascality.
My wedding was a typical Lagos wedding. It was nice being centre stage on the occasion. I thoroughly enjoyed the day.
As an adult in public life, there are constraints. I must be on my guard at all times. Adulthood has also brought the pressures of “being a man”; earning a living, marriage, parenthood, school fees etc.
I have a vision of a future Lagos as a City-State of aquatic and natural splendour, populated by a well educated, skilled and healthy people. A mega-city that serves as the nerve centre of oil and gas service and logistic base in the Gulf of Guinea; financial and professional services in West Africa; maritime and shipping activities in the region, and industry and commerce of ECOWAS.
A secure, lively city buzzing with economic activity during the day, and entertainment at night!
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NKIRU ASIKA
I AM NIGERIAN
I am a Nigerian.
I am one in 5 Africans.
I am one in 8 Black people, anywhere in the world.
I am a Nobel Prize Winner. An Olympic Gold Medallist.
A Grammy Award Winner.
A Soccer Champion.
A Prince of theVatican.
An Oscar Nominee.
A Giant of Literature.
A Distinguished Scientist.
A Musical Icon.
My roots lie in the dusty Sahel of the North; in the rich rainforests of the East; in the Savannah plains of the West; in the oil-filled swamps of the Delta; in the warmth of our villages and the vibrance of our cities.
My strength flows from the waters of the
Niger and the Benue.
My joy springs from the rush of Gurara Falls and the natural wonders of Yankari.
Nigeria is my rock.
Nigeria is my hope.
Nigeria is my home.
I am the voice of two hundred tribes, speaking three hundred languages.
I am the dance of the circle of life.
I am the laughter of the world’s happiest people.
I am nourished by the crop of the soil, fed by the bounty of the rivers.
I am your neighbor.
I am your friend.
I am a warrior, priest, king.
I am a mother, teacher, queen.
I am my brother’s keeper.
I am a sage from an ancient civilization.
I am a child in the youngest nation on earth.
I am the beauty, I am the sound, I am the vision, I am the spirit, I am the passion, I am the soul of a Continent.
I am Nigerian.
I am the HEART OF AFRICA.
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Travel & Culture
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The Flygeria It is four days to a party that would definitely be the most talked about thing on the lips of every ‘happening’ youngster residing in the upper end of Lagos. My best friend is yet to pick out her dress for this highly anticipated event which also happens to be her birthday. With all the stores that house designer clothing sourced from abroad unable to meet her urgent need of a stunning dress that fits, she starts ranting and my ears soon start “bleeding”. After much pondering, she finds a solution to her ‘fashion distress’ but refuses to let me know what her way out of this one would be until the day of the party. The day finally comes and many excited mouths already start munching on the variety of food while awaiting her grand entrance. We all watched agape, as she strode towards us in the most stunning bejewelled Ankara dress ever, yes I said ANKARA!!!
The lifestyle of many Nigerian youth has taken a complete 360 or at least is working with 270 on its way to 360. For instance, no more is the average Nigerian youth on the evidently greener streets of Lagos staunchly opposed to change unlike their more adult fellow citizens.
Forget the governmental viewpoint of‘re-branding’, naija youths are in the process of‘re-branding’ themselves- moving away from false patriotism and simply becoming ‘FLYGERIANS’.
And who is a Flygerian?? Easy! Think fabulously jewelled Ankara dresses for red carpet events, think slamming hip-hop tunes with a touch of afro beat at parties and clubs where a popular American dance ‘jerk dance’ is done alongside ‘the yahooze’, and the rather amusing but yet enjoyable ‘Alanta’. In two words, a Flygerian is a Fly Nigerian.
The Fly Nigerian is proud to be a Nigerian because of what being Nigerian now signifies.
There is a huge appreciation for all that is Nigerian and an exciting and positive air around this new generation of Nigerians. Flygerians have practically redefined patriotism by choosing to live what they believe in. Whether it is with music, fashion, art or literature, the Fly Nigerians are ‘reppin hard’ any way they know how to. Nowadays, we hear the mantra ‘Omo Naija’ (Nigerian child) or ‘naija for life’ from the mouth of almost every young person, especially those in the public eye.
There is a tremendous change in the mindset of the new generation of Nigerians, better known as Flygerians; and this change is reflecting in every aspect of the Nigerian culture- music, fashion, art and literature. Gone are the days when the genres of Nigerian music were limited to juju, highlife or afro beat. Legendary artistes such as King Sunny Ade (KSA), Sir Shina Peters, Adewale Ayuba and Fela Anikulapo Kuti dominated radio, television and also had numerous stage performances. Then, you were either a fan of that genre of music or you had no liking for Nigerian music. These days, there is a wider variety of Nigerian music to listen to. New artiste like Bez, whose genre of music is alternative soul or Nneka, whose music is a mixture of reggae, hip-hop, afro beat and highlife. Popular artistes such as D-banj, 2face, Banky W and Naeto C have also brought fresh and exciting sounds to the table. The fusion of the older styles of music (juju, highlife and afro beat), with the more modern styles (hip-hop and R&B) has aroused the interest of young Nigerians in Nigerian music and has also made room for the appreciation of the music of the legends in the Nigerian music industry among the younger generation.
From the monogrammed t-shirts with eye-catching prints (I Rep Naija, I Be Naija Boy), to the awakening of the Nigerian fashion designers, the Nigerian fashion industry is one
Elizabeth Ole
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Fashion & Lifestyle
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their artistry to thrive in Nigeria. Nigerian literature is no exception; young authors such as Chimamanda Adichie and Sefi Atta write about issues that are ‘closer to home’ and situations that Nigerian readers can relate to.
Several magazines and blog spots like Bellanaija, celebrate Nigeria and the lifestyle of its people.
Presently, the media is progressively promoting Nigerian culture by airing commercials from ‘Proudly Nigerian’ brands; for instance, the ad campaign from Etisalat- ‘0809ja’ and Guinness extra stout- ‘The Power of Naija’.
The whole essence of the Flygerian is encapsulated in a new found interest in politics. Flygerians are gearing up to revolutionize conventional politics in Nigeria. A few months ago, a number of flgerians participated in the ‘Light-up Nigeria’ cause that was designed to deal with the presidential issues at the time, along with other pressing matters concerning Nigerian Leadership.
There is a zeal for change (especially in the political sector), and if effected it would go a long way to improve other sectors. Thus, an increased celebration of the Nigerian culture; with the vision of Flygerians now actualized.
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in which Flygerians are now tirelessly waving their ‘green-white-green flags’. Young Nigerian fashion lovers both at home and abroad now “kill” to have accessories and clothing from their Nigerian designers any day. Designers like Jewel By Lisa, Ituen Basi, Lanre Da-Silva Ajayi, Tiffany Amber etc are creating ethnic inspired clothes and accessories that are worthy of international acclaim. These designers are paving the way for up and coming young Nigerian designers to aspire to international success.
This is the beginning of a new era in which the Nigerian culture is being embraced by its people. Young professionals are living by the slogan ‘Proudly Nigerian’ in their various fields. Visual artists and photographers such as Kelechi Amadi-Obi, T.Y Bello, Yetunde Babaeko and Aisha Augie-Tukur have used their work to put Nigeria on the ‘creative map’. Similarly, make up-artists such as Banke Meshida, Lola Maja and Tara Durotoye (CEO, House of Tara) have created a platform for
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Fashion & Lifestyle
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Out of the need to help people express their ideas and translate them to viable business, the idea-HO9 was birthed and started officially in 2007.
HO9 (Hope of 9ja) is the vision of an inspired group of individuals who have a strong desire to improve and package the quality of service rendered in the fashion industry.
“Lets Clothe Nigeria” booklet - the first production from HO9, engages the talents of various practitioners within the Nigerian Fashion industry. It showcases their works and demonstrates that ‘Made in Nigeria’ products are creative, of high quality and can compete favourably with foreign brands.
It also gives insight into the fashion industry generally and the state of the industry in Nigeria and its ultimate goal is to promote the Nigerian Fashion Industry, her practitioners and the brand Nigeria.
Gbemisola Adenuga, the MD/CEO of HO9 has been actively involved in developing business concepts and then turning these concepts into growing business. She explains that through the media, they intend to influence the current views of people about Nigeria and her values by creating a forum
of networking through marketing outlets, events, reality shows, clubs, magazines and TV shows, in a way of discovering new talents and presenting to existing professionals, the opportunity to repackage themselves.
Her message to Nigeria @50 is simply to move forward in a positive direction. “If you are doing something negative, then you have to stop it, retreat and move to something positive. If positive, then keep at it. Contentment is great gain.”
“Flag 9ja”- another initiative from the producers of HO9 introduces a campaign, Flag with Style for the nation’s independence. This campaign is to flag over 500,000 cars for about 5 months (August – December) to celebrate 50 years of Nigeria; the past, present and future we dream of.
The flagging experience is a call to awareness for change, not just about putting flags on our car side mirrors. It is meant to challenge us to move a revolution that will kill our last minute syndrome and create a new level of preparedness that will paint a vivid picture of the NIGERIA of our dreams.
For more, visit www.hopeof9ja.com
Hope Of 9jaAyo Tokunbo
Fashion & Lifestyle
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From IO with Love…
This independence month, free yourself from dull and imposing décor and embrace quality furniture that showcases the beauty of your house.
Furniture makes the home. It as important as the heart is to the body. The right furniture can lift your home, express your personality and create a haven of wellbeing. On the other hand the wrong type of furniture will depress and distract from the beauty of your home.When selecting furniture, attention to detail is key, balance the need for comfort with the beauty of the piece.
The general design and philosophy behind good furniture should be that it suits your lifestyle and emotional needs.”
IO FURNITURE LTD.
6/8 INDUSTRIAL STREET,
OFF TOWN PLANNING WAY,
ILUPEJU, LAGOS.
TEL/FAX: 01-8180027, 07064000227,
08136266340, 08136077860
E-MAIL: [email protected],
www.ioworldng.com
Fashion & Lifestyle
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relish? It is the worldwide movement that is referred to as the facebook revolution and it is happening here too [in Nigeria that is]. This group of millions is now officially called the facebook generation though it also comprises other social networking sites including twitter.
For this virtual generation, freedom of expression is the celebrated way of life, no matter how absurdly mundane; consider for instance this status update; “mchew” [an imitation of the popular puckered lips hiss] which generated 24 comments. The remarks ranged from the abbreviated LMAO/LMFAO to its less vulgar cousin LMHO and the Nigerian version LWKMD. A lot of concern was expressed “eeh ya dear hope no problem? The motivational “God is in control” and the thinly veiled come-on “baby, with me you will never be unhappy”’
Social networking provides salacious highlights of regular people in their everyday lives; an offering we have come to be addicted to in the form of reality TV shows like Big Brother. Reality TV has legalized voyeurism and made us come to view the fruits of extreme idleness as primetime entertainment. This is why social networking has been easy to accept, it also has the added perk of making us celebrities in our own world; we have the pictures and the words to make it a reality.
It appears now that we as a generation have decided to voluntarily surrender our privacy to the worldwide web. Our spontaneous, thoughtless updates and even our well thought out diatribes against everyone from the government to the boss is available for public consumption. A bitter lesson learnt by someone who decided that facebook would be the perfect venue to berate her boss with very colourful expletives. Through her exceptionally porous privacy settings, the boss was able to get a full thread of commentary, and the rest as they say… is history.
According to Google CEO Eric Schmidt , a lot of young people will have to change their names in the future due to privacy mistakes that they made.
Nigeria at 50 has not experienced such unity of purpose, as Nigerians from within and in all corners of the world converge in one forum, for the singular purpose of updating their status. Do not misunderstand me, a lot of grave issues of national significance are thrashed out on social media platforms, after all, the president declared his electoral intentions first on facebook. With politicians and their campaign machinery constantly in your face, it is very hard to miss all the manner of political discourse and partisan affiliations that are expressed on facebook and other sites. For the sake of the politicians, we can only hope that their ‘facebook supporters’ indeed support them where it matters, at the ballot box. It is not unusual for facebook members to make promises and pledge allegiances online without following the same road in real life.
Will facebook topple like a pack of cards with the entrance of the next big thing, or will it continue to gain relevance as a tool for communication and unity? Will the full use of facebook as a mobilization tool work in Nigeria or will it continue to churn home-spawn celebrities? As with practically everything else on earth, only time will tell. In the meantime, I will spend more time staring at my facebook homepage as I have been for the past year…wondering what on earth to write on my wall.
LMAO: laughing my a** off
LMFAO: laughing my fat a*** off
LMHO: laughing my head off
LW KMD: laugh wan kill me die
Campus Life
THE FACE BOOK GENERATION AND NIGERIA AT 50Ifeoma Jennifer Areh
What do you call the alliance of people that flock en-masse 24 hours a day in a virtual environment to expound upon the minutest trivialities of their lives with intense passion and
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It’s a great milestone we’ve reached, I must say. The nation that brought about the likes of Wole Soyinka, Awolowo, Azikiwe, Emegwali, M.K.O and myself inclusive is 50.
Let’s face it; do we, Nigerians, really understand the significance of this independence being the 50th? Are we prepared for what lies ahead? That is just my thought. There are more from NaijaTimes Fans on Facebook. Below are some of them:
I think Nigeria will continue to be good for me and my family, what about you? -Adebanke Adeyemi My thought’s for this great nation at this Golden Jubilee is that let’s all stand up and say no to corruption, fraudulent acts, election and exam malpractices, government irregularities, poverty and so on. Therefore, I will like all Nigerian’s both at home and abroad to please sacrifice, pray and fast on the eve day of the celebration for a better Nigeria.Thank you and Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria. -Salau Abdullateef Olalekan Pray for more visionary leaders to emerge, with cute moral and mental capital.
-Chidiebere Ernest Onuoha
Nigeria is statistically the Giant of Africa based on resources per square inch of land and also the sheer numerical strength of its population. It is pertinent to note that although there is a lot of negativity about our image, let us not wallow in the hypocritical nature of our detractors. A country with 200 million people is more like to have crime than a country with 20 million. It is not an excuse for the scenario, but a warning that other people should clean up their acts before approaching us to talk about negativity. They always blow up the bad ides and sweep our humanitarian efforts under the carpet. We need to understand that we have a lot going on for us and STOP the negative branding we are beginning to accept from other nations. If you’re looking for something to believe in, look at your birth certificate. It says NIGERIAN. Believe in that and cascade it to other people. We are the change we crave. -KennaGq
Hmm.. It’s good to know that we still have people that believe in the future of Nigeria. But I must point out, that the success of this nation depends on our collective efforts as Nigerians. We are a rare breed of humans and are not just Nigerians. We are ‘Naija’-the never dying swag a Nigerian, whether in good times or bad times. It’s been a tough through all the past years but I still believe, that there lies a much brighter future ahead of us.
Congratulations Nigeria!Congratulations Nigerians!
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Thoughts on Nigeria@50Facebook poll! Wendy Emesie
Campus Life
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Looking back a few years, the only environment where learning could take place in Nigeria was either in classrooms or training/conference centers. The emergence of E-learning has caused a great turnaround since then. With E-learning, real-time access to learning materials is now possible, anytime, anywhere. The learning is interactive, self-paced and literally at the convenience of the learner; offering control and personalization in a way that classroom learning doesn’t. This eliminates the limitations of live learning (classroom) and the need for learners to align their schedules to specific calendars.
While creating a great learning environment, E-learning enhances effectiveness and cost efficiency. I can learn at home or in the office without having to move an inch. This new learning culture was given a great boost during a breakfast seminar on August 24, 2010 when a mobile learning management system was unveiled. Phillips Consulting Limited (PCL), being the foremost player in the E-learning sphere in Nigeria, hosted this forum designed to create awareness of E-learning, highlighting its potential for knowledge sharing and showcasing its benefits to business organisations.
We heave a sigh of relief as the mobile Enterprise Knowledge Platform (mEKP); the world’s first full-featured mobile learning device comes on stream. mEKP is an end-user version of the Enterprise Knowledge Platform (EKP), NetDimensions’ powerful and robust Learning Management System (LMS)
Runs independently from a USB flash drive.
Requires no installation or Internet connection.
Enables users to review course materials, run courses, take exams and review documents, as well as review exam and training history
information from any computer with a USB port at their convenience anytime, anywhere.
Addresses the current bandwidth issues impeding large scale deployment of E-learning across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Has the same security options and permissions settings configured in the master EKP system and various USB encryption options are available to protect the device in event of theft or loss. Businesses today are seeking E-learning solutions because they want to improve the expertise and performance of their employees leading to improved service delivery. mEKP can intelligently manage user information (AICC, SCORM, exam data) while offline and thereafter communicate with the master EKP server to synchronise user-specific information when access to the internet or company intranet is available. This includes course and exam completion data, along with dates, times and scores. This is very light information to transfer, requiring very minimal internet bandwidth.
At Phillips Consulting, our strength in E-learning is backed by our over 15 years experience in providing high quality training and learning opportunities for employees in government and business in a variety of disciplines necessary for ensuring high performance in the work place.
As organisations continue to look for cost efficiencies and higher returns, the use of E-learning in general, and its application in workforce training and development in particular will continue to expand; and Phillips Consulting will continue to play an integral part in that. Want to learn more? Watch this space.
Careers and Development
The Earningin Learning
Paul Ayim
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For all its flaws and shortcomings, Nigeria has never lacked the promise of a bright future. Here I do not refer to the religious or faith-based assertion of future well being commonly expounded (this is not to say in any way that we lack this, to the contrary we are probably its most fervent exponents), but somehow there has always been a rational case for a better Nigeria - a clearly foreseeable and straight forward path to economic growth and socio-economic advancement.
However our history is fraught with examples of an inexplicable propensity for at best mediocre outcomes, where moments ago we stood on the precipice of greatness. In a sense it’s an uncanny knack for making the wrong choices at the right places, one might say a skill honed to Spartan perfection by our leaders. It is this background to our national history
Rolling the dice at 50
Soromfe Uzoma
that has triggered the thoughts around which this careers and development article is framed.
Once in a while I chance upon a certain type of story from the 1970’s and 1980’s, and they usually go thus: A young Nigerian academic/professional somewhere in Europe or the U.S is approached and convinced to return home. Sometimes it’s his/her family, sometimes it’s a colleague, and at other times it’s a visiting representative of government. Usually pictures of a nation reeling in opportunities are painted, appeals are made to that part of the human nature that beyond reason attributes more importance to a certain geographic or demographic distinction. Maybe with a bit of foot-dragging, often with a burst of patriotic zeal, the individual returns home, full of passion and drive.
And so a good number of Nigerians left
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careers abroad and the promise of stability that a developed countries offer, to return to their fatherland and contribute their quota to national development. Depending on when you chose to do this, the move was usually hitch-free; your new job at some government institution/establishment would probably come with decent accommodation, a car etc.
For those who were already here there was almost no reason to want to leave – except perhaps the pursuit of a higher degree. The nation seemed to be running awash with dizzying amounts of possibility. Many turned down opportunities to re-locate abroad. A tertiary education all but guaranteed life’s best. We were even said to be at a loss as to how to spend our huge fortune, a problem that few mortals are ever saddled with, much less an entire nation.
There is a story often told of a frog in boiling water, permit me to paraphrase it here.
If a frog is dropped into a pot of boiling water it would immediately jump out (or attempt to do so), however if it is placed in a pot of cool water and the water is slowly heated, the frog might get cooked before it realizes the subtle but life-snuffing temperature rise.
This was the case with a lot of people, things went south so slowly that most people didn’t realize how far south until it was too late.
Not to mention that there was always that rational glimmer of hope already mentioned - each coup, counter-coup, failed-coup, cabinet shake-up etc offered the promise of a new lease of life, some hope of sorts,
replicating the political equivalent of a market boom and bust.
To summarize a harrowing tale of frustration and regret (for the most part), many a bright Nigerian dream was conflagrated on the altar of visionless leadership and myopic greed, leaving behind ashes of chronic cynicism.
Many pieces by more informed analysts than myself have been dedicated to ruing our missed opportunities as a nation. Here, I simply want to draw attention to the long-term effect of socio-economic factors on even the most promising of futures/careers.
This article does not seek to suggest that returning home is a bad idea. It isn’t the direction of the move (whether you choose to relocate back to Nigeria, or to relocate from Nigeria to somewhere else), it’s the moving itself, and the validity of underlying rationale behind it.
On what grounds do you pre-suppose one place to be more favourable to you than the other? How much thought have you put into the short-term decisions that are critical to long-term success?
The opportunities that can be afforded to anyone intent on having a successful and fulfilling career or life will for the most part be predicated on the prevailing socio-economic circumstances.
As our nation crosses the half-century mark, and our future again looks brighter, whether you choose to seek greener pastures abroad or return to leverage opportunities, will you be making an intelligent and informed decision or would you simply be drifting with the crowd?
“The nation seemed to be running awash with dizzying amounts of possibility.”
Letting you know we are doing more without necessarily saying more
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The idea for ‘My Avatar’ was born out of designing apparels for fashionable customers who wanted a fun and personal but classy touch to what they wear. ‘My A’ or ‘My Avatar’ is a cartoon representation of the owner or his favourite celebrity on a tee shirt.
This highly customized product line is the newest range of limited edition tees under the C2 brand that come with quality prints on 100% cotton. In creating each Avatar tee, the designers capture the unique physical attributes and fashion accessories usually worn by the owner and use it to create ‘the little man’ after which the printers imply an innovative new technology to transfer the final image onto the tee shirt.
The Company, C2- has a ready to wear line called C2, which comprises of, tee shirts, pants and accessories with a wide array of designs which have a vintage appeal.
C2 aims at producing unique and affordable clothing items, bespoke services for customers who want particular fabrics and styles. The company specialises in clothing in form of costumes and corporate merchandise or memorabilia for individuals, groups or corporate organisations.
‘My Avatar’ Tee-shirts
Young Entrepreneur
“C2 aims at producing unique and affordable clothing items, bespoke services for customers who want particular fabrics and styles. The company specialises in clothing in form of costumes and corporate merchandise or memorabilia for individuals, groups or corporate organisations.”
Oludayo Olujekun, the C2 Company
Oludayo Olujekun, the brain behind C2, graduated from Ogun State Polytechnic with a HND in accounting and has worked with various organisation including The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (zonal headquarters-west), RCCG (Christ Church parish), Ogun State hospitals management board and Toford international as creative director/brands consultant before going on to start his clothing line.
His work is centred on the clothing aspect of fashion, which he has, have been involved in for close to 8 years. Working on a ready to wear line, his clothes can be seen as having a western appeal. He realised there was a void in the industry which needed to be filled in terms of basic clothing in general
so he decided to do this rather than work on the ‘African thing’ which everyone else was doing.
In addition, apart from working on his own clothing range, he works also as a creative director for two other labels namely; fabuleux, which is a premium jeans line for high-end customers, and ‘jesu kristi’ which is a street wear line inspired by the work and personality of Jesus Christ.
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Careers and Development
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I packed my bags and returned to Nigeria in early 2008 and I am yet to get acclimatized to daily living in the country in 2010. Nigeria itself is a contradiction; I liken it to the Chinese sweet and sour sauce. There are some days I wonder if I was crazy to return home to madness after 15 years living and working in sanity abroad! When I come home from work and there is still no electricity after 2 weeks, when the generator does not start after a long day at work, when the diesel supplier does not turn up for the second day in a row and your tank is empty, when I wake up in the morning and the tap runs dry, when I sit in chaotic traffic daily for 6 hours to get where I am going, only to get there and spend half an hour and come back in another 5 hours of traffic, the term “Cry my beloved country” comes to mind.
Yet there are other days, I look at the sun shining bright, I look at the Okada rider, being pulled along the road by another Okada by hooking his leg unto the motorbike, oblivious to the dangers around him and grinning at the world. I look at the hustle and bustle of people rushing around on the road, selling, buying, laughing, fighting, cursing and just living as best they can. I cherish going into my favourite restaurant on the Island on a Saturday morning, looking out on to the lagoon, which serves the best breakfast and club sandwiches in the world! I love that we are such a social happy nation.
As we celebrate 50 years of Independence, I have to admit, we have regressed in many
areas i.e. our infrastructure has fallen apart, health care is almost nonexistent, education is abysmal, security is a myth, our roads look like they have been hit by bombs, jobs are scarce…and the list goes on. The two areas in which Nigeria has blossomed are our telecoms provision and entertainment. The fashion, music and movie sector has taken off in leaps and bounds. It is heart warming to see Nigeria represented on the world stage amongst the best. We have the record for the country with the most amounts of telephone handsets sold in the last 2 years.
My prayer for Nigeria for the next 50 years is that we regain our lost glory and improve the standard of living for our people. We are a proud people and like the best that life can
provide. We are beautiful and vibrant. We are survivors, we had it once albeit a long time ago, and we can have it again if the powers that be knuckle down to look at what is needed in the country and set a workable agenda that is given to competent professionals who can implement it without thinking of lining their pockets first, we will be on the road to greatness.
I am glad I came back home, glad I am with my people and glad that I can contribute in some small part to building our great Nation. Yes we can and we will!
Happy Independence Nigeria!
Cover Story
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Caroline Adeola Akinlotan
My Country Nigeria!
“My prayer for Nigeria for the next 50 years is that we regain our lost glory and improve the standard of living for our people. ”
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Digital Age
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With close to half a billion users worldwide, 1.72million from Nigeria, it is miles ahead of the competition. Even Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan announced his intention to run for re-election, not in Eagle Square in Abuja, but on Facebook! A number of brands are using this new channel to engage consumers and brand loyalists in ways never seen before. Now in Nigeria we are not left out, and here are two brands I believe are using social media to build brand interaction pretty well.
The first is Maltina, I have been a “Fan” of the Maltina Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Maltina-Dance-All) since last year, and I must say it is a great page.
It has a vibrant community, and with two truly world class applications, it is a near text book example of social media marketing. The very innovative “What Dance Are You?” application integrates well with the Maltina Dance All marketing platform that consists of the highly evocative reality dance TV show. The “Memory Glass” application links brilliantly with Maltina’s core positioning of “inspiring happy moments of sharing”. Users can create memories, upload photos and send them to friends who in turn come to the app and do the same. The rich-media interface uses a visually impressive physics engine to simulate real memory balls falling into the glass, and these can be dragged around and played with.
This application does it all, looks great and is above all a very social way for a drinks brand to burst into the social media scene.
My only suggestion for the Fan page is that they, Maltina, update the page a bit more often with new and exclusive bits of content, but that said there are a enough user generated content – from the comments from other fans - to keep you entertained for ages, some of them truly crack me up!
The other facebook page I am a fan of is that of the Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB). http://www.facebook.com/gtbank
I must say I don’t bank with them, but they are doing a job in trying to convince me to switch…actually more accurately the GTB facebook community is doing a good job in trying to win me over to the “orange” side.
I find the warmth communicated by other fans towards the brand very alluring, and completely unexpected for a Bank (makes a refreshing change from the usual complaining). GTB keeps you updated with frequent posts on new product launches and brand activities. Well done to the guys over at GTB.
Want to know a lot more about the strategies discussed in this article? Why not subscribe to the Internet guru e-newsletter, by sending an email, from your personal email address, to [email protected]
FanpagesInternet Guru
The transforming nature of social media is undoubted. You must have been living under a rock for the past couple of years, if you haven’t heard of Facebook, Youtube or Twitter.Now when it comes to social networking Facebook is KING (the more perceptive of you will be asking what is the difference between social networking and social media, well we will have to leave that lesson to another day).
As Africa’s giant gears up for its Golden jubilee celebrations, the Nigerian population may be wondering what is in store for them future wise.
Nigeria, who attained independence in October 1,1960, has had its growth marred by series of setbacks to its development, from a couple of civil wars, to wide spread corruption. This is not to say there is no good that has come out of the last 50 years. Many budding industries have flourished in the African environment, the fastest growing being the telecoms industry.
The role played by Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in the development of Nigeria in the past 50 years will be something to look forward to when the nation celebrations her golden jubilee on October 1,1960.
The Nigerian Telecoms Industry
The Nigerian ICT sector has come a long way, passing through many tortuous paths, but nevertheless, the industry has become one of the most vibrant sectors of the economy.
It is important that as Nigeria celebrates 50 years of independence from colonial rule, the ICT sector, which has been widely recognized as the most effective catalyst in national development, rolls out drums in celebration and plans ahead for the future.
A report from the ITU (International Telecommunication Union) has revealed that 43.9 million Nigerians have access to the internet. The latest stats from the International Telecommunication Union, ITU makes Nigeria the largest internet population by country in Africa dwarfing South Africa,
Morrocco, Kenya and Egypt combined. According to the report, about 39.6% of all Internet traffic from Africa is from Nigeria and 29.8% of the population access the Internet with the most visited sites being Facebook, Google and Yahoo.
Couple this with the fact that there are over 43,000,000 estimated mobile phone subscribers in 2007, the country is ripe to take advantage of mobile and internet services.
This is a great opportunity for advertisers and brands seeking to engage consumers using the Internet and mobile. With the right mix of Social Media, Display Ads and Search marketing, advertisers can improve their visibility at reduced cost.Nigeria and the Internet
Nigeria at 50 - The Growth of the Telecoms Industry
Lola Agbaje
Digital Age
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Nigeria has a very active internet community, especially on social networking sites. Notably, Nigeria’s population on Facebook hit over 1.2 million mark in March 2010 leading to the official launch of the popular networking site in Nigeria on April 30, 2010 in Lagos.
Although Nigeria has been rated third in terms of Internet penetration in Africa, the service is accessible to only 16 percent of Nigerians.
While the Internet penetration in Nigeria is good, compared to other African countries, there is still much development to be done as Internet coverage in Nigeria is only 16 percent and its services are mostly in the urban areas. Rural areas and even some urban areas do not have access to any Internet connection, despite the fact that some of these areas have mobile telecommunication services.
The ‘Nigerian’ Obstacle
Years after the .ng country code Top Level Domain (ccTLD) name was launched in the country, many Nigerians are still sceptical about registering their companies or online businesses with a .ng domain name, the main obstacle being Nigerians’ unwillingness to associate with the .ng domain name. This lack of interest can be put down to lack of awareness, poor branding of the .ng domain name, and lack of credibility due to the cyber crime issues in the country, perpetrated by ‘Yahoo boys’ and their attempts to scam large amounts of money from unsuspecting (and usually) foreign victims.Many Nigerians are unaware that the .ng domain name exists. Coupled with the lack of branding, .ng seems to be a lonely place. The Nigerian government needs to brand this entity in order for it to grow. People believe that the .ng domain name does not portray the credibility of their business, especially outside the country. So, instead,
they prefer to launch their businesses with the .net, .com, .co. uk, etc, which is a capital plight for the country as the Nigerian economy loses by the refusal of firms to register with the .ng domain name.
If you are not registered with .ng and you have to register with another generic top-level domain (gTLD) name, you would be paying in dollar to the other country. But when you register with .ng, you would be paying in naira and putting money back into the economy.
Apart from the problems with availability, users are also faced with the high cost of even getting these services, with mobile internet subscriptions costing as much as N10,000/month (35 pounds), and mobile phone internet access around N5,000/month (15 pounds)
The Solution
Experts are optimistic that the recent submarine cables connection could improve the Internet service in the country. Only recently, Main One launched its open access submarine cable system, which, when completed, will span 14000 kilometres and will provide international and Internet connectivity in the country.
While this is a welcome development, the government must work to provide the right infrastructure to aid the Internet services, as the right infrastructures are not available, namely and most importantly power supply. They have to be made available to aid the distribution on bandwidth to the remote areas.
In conclusion, while the country’s economy and infrastructure is far from perfect and can the business environment frustrating to navigate through, the rewards for those who see the potential profits to be made in this sector are high. This is a relatively new industry and the fasted to spot the opportunities within will reap the greatest rewards.
Digital Age
The Enterprise Knowledge Platform (EKP) is a powerful
Java-based learning management system that lets
organizations deliver, track and administer learning
initiatives for customers, employees and partners.
EKP includes all the tools needed to manage the learning
process. It handles enrollment, course descriptions and catalogue
management, test authoring and delivery, security and overall
network interaction.
Quick To Implement -> Lower overall costs EKP can be deployed faster and with fewer implementation
services than almost all other LMS systems in the market
This difference: deployment in weeks vs months, and is due
in large part to its configurable structure.
Security -> Best in class EKP security is superior to most leading LMS’ as it was
designed using a banking systems transaction server model,
where all Internet requests are treated as individually
controllable and auditable transactions that must pass
through the Security Manager before being processed by
backend business components.
It is impossible for any request to bypass the Security
Manager, and no risky scripted page templates are used
anywhere in the system.
Thus, it is possible to identify every request by specific
user in the system, and to get detailed statistics on each
transaction.
Highly Scalable -> Grow as you growEKP can scale to very large numbers. Our current tests have
shown upwards of 500,000 users and more than 100,000
concurrent users.
Ease-of-Use -> Only adjustable interface Every vendor claims this, but often fails in delivery.The EKP user interface is dynamically adjustable (no other major LMS offers this), as the screen is built at the outset, based on the customer’s organizational structure, preference settings, skin properties, language choice, and system configuration.Thus the most appropriate information is delivered to the user. Casual, non-technical users will receive a simple screen while administrators can have access to greater functionality.The current default UI is the product of a year long study with Cathay Pacific Airlines, and a University research group that analyzed user patterns to develop the most logical, intuitive UI. And even that is configurable!It may sound slow and cumbersome, but it is actually very fast since all of this happens in memory instead of requiring access to templates on disk, thus – speed and tailored information delivery.
!"#$%"&&'($)(*+,-()',&)'.$()*(/0/,'($1)&!2(+3($024*5&/-$2-'6
NetDimensions, Enterprise Knowledge Platform, EKP, Knowledge Center and Customization Tool Kit are trademarks or service marks of NetDimensions Limited. All other trademarks, trade names, service marks and logos referenced herein belong to their respective owners.
EKP is ideal for:Candidate screening
New-hire orientations
Skill and competency
assessments
Employee reviews
Career development
planning
Certification procedures
Sales and service training
And more.
naijaTimes 47
into the academy. The parents were not left out, as they danced gracefully with amazing twists and turns.
The academy contest had the contestants display vibrancy and agility. It was a battle of wits; you either dig in or dig out. The judges were on the look out for those who have got the moves as contestants displayed their ace moves all in the bid to outdo one another, to win the hearts of the judges.
With spell bound moves, 13 contestants for the academy were picked along with their respective families. After a fierce battle amongst the 13 shortlisted families, only 10 families made it into the academy; Abang, Adejo, Ayeni, Eselemo, Jonas, Nelson, Okoroafor, Shartar, Uhie and Wyss.
With each passing day in the academy, the
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It has been an exciting, engaging and electrifying season in the Maltina Dance All 2010, the hottest family dance reality show in Nigeria. This season was assuredly four times better than the previous seasons-all thanks to Maltina.
Right from the regionals at the various cities; Enugu, Kaduna, Owerri and Benin, the heat of the competition was in the air as various youths and families all gathered to display their individual talents in an energetic and fun filled atmosphere.
The battle commenced at the regions with captivating performances from the youngsters, displaying over-whelming moves. The contestants danced to show their captivating skills and energy for award prizes and then compete against each other to get
Entertainment
families had an array of performances ranging from hip hop, contemporary, pantomime, wazobia amongst others as each family proved to be the best dance family in Nigeria. However, only 5 of them made it to the finals.
The Grand finale of The Maltina Dance All 2010, which was held at the Ekpo center, Eko Hotels and Suites, had our last families standing; Abang, Adejo, Eselemo, Nelson and Uhie compete for the winning prize.
Each family displayed spectacular dance moves and after a stiffened, highly competitive battle amongst the 5 remaining families, came the moment of truth- the winner of Maltina Dance All 2010.
The Adejo’s family took it home with the highest number of votes and won the hearts
of the judges, fans and families with their spell bound moves and artistry performance. We also saw ground breaking and breathtaking moves from the endearing Lemi Adejo-the face of the Adejo family.
With the Adejos as winners of a brand new SUV and 2.5million naira, the Eselemos leaves the academy in second place with 1million naira and the Abangs, in third place with 500,000naira.
Indeed Maltina Dance All breaks all barriers in bringing maximum entertainment to families all over Nigeria and beyond. We all look forward to another season of fun, energy and entertainment in 2011.
Thanks to Maltina.
And the winner is…Wendy Emesie
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Cinemas, Onikan, Lagos. Movies starts from 12pm,3pm, 5pm, 7pm, 8.30pm while main event kicks off officially at 7pm. Participants can upgrade their status by signing up at least two guests for the TGIF event - and become TGIF Ambassadors, which entitles them to free tickets. Regular guests pay N1000 per ticket.
As a guest, you stand to benefit the following:Free Instant Framed Photograph, Free Drink Guest also stands a chance of winning:TM Lewin or David Weg Shirts, 50% Discount / Free Page Website, A Free meal @ KFC, Vouchers: Hair, Gym, Web design
TGIF...’Thank God It’s Friday’ is a popular phrase often used by people especially workers in the corporate world. Friday is seen as the first day of the weekend when they share drinks at bars and other hotspots.’
TGIF is just one of those places which offers an enabling environment that guarantees guests total relaxation, top networking and rewarding opportunities. It is pioneered by the trio; Lanre Messan, Bello Tope and Bisi Onadipe Davids.
It takes place every Friday at Citymall
Entertainment
Looking for corporate relaxation? Try TGIF..
Wendy Emesie
naijaTimes 49
Last year, it was originally tagged Naija Sings, Nigeria’s first indigenous musical reality series. Now, with Globacom on board, it has taken a new turn and name, Glo Naija Sings.
The premier season had John Ogar as winner who is currently an undergraduate at the University of Arizona in the USA. The prize money he won, he said was being used to further his education. However, he is still keen on music having featured at the Channel O Awards last year and he is presently in the studios working on a piece with, music icon, Tu Face Idibia after an invitation to the latter’s musical concert in New York last year.
Meanwhile, this second season’s talent hunt has taken its search amongst a wide range of vocalists, sensational soloist and musical groups across major cities; Lagos, Benin City, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Calabar, Kano and Abuja to compete for a place in the top 10 finalists and a grand prize of $100,000.
The show features top entertainment and on-air personalities in the industry which includes Tosin Martins as one of the judges, Olisa Adibua as the show’s host and our very own singer/songwriter, Ayorinde Ilori Faboro, a.k.a Dokta Frabz as vocal trainer and musical director amongst others.
With this new season, the DSTV executives have nothing to worry about, especially
as regards other music shows like Idols or Project Fame. Naija Sings stands out because it is an original format, a homegrown project. The
quality of production, the level of talent and the Mnet brand is sure to make the series promising and with Glo taking sponsorship of the show, we are assured of a much wider television audience than last year. No doubt about it, Glo Naija Sings a must watch for all.
From the producers of the show, Storm Records and their co-partners, Never Machine–“Weare immensely proud of it and its so gratifying to see the
show come back bigger and better this year. As always, hats off to
Mnet, who consistently supports original Naija talent and a big thank
you to Glo for believing in the show and bringing their magic on board”.
In celebration of the debut, Glo Naija Sings on MNET, a mini concert was held at the Silverbird Galleria, in Victoria Island, Lagos and featured the stars amongst likes of Sauce Kid, YQ, 2shotz, Waje, Kas, Mo’Cheddah, Contradiction, General Pype and Lynxxx.
Wendy Emesie
Glo NaijaSings- Thetakeover
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Entertainment
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What do you get when you add a B.A. (HONS) in Business Administration from the University of Kent with a scholarship to the Berklee College of Music? By my calculations the answer seems to be none other than Tiwa savage.
The Nigerian born singer/songwriter has been away from the African shores for over a decade but is back with a new single, ‘Kele Kele’, and sporting an impressive CV.
Since getting her big break at age 16 as a back up singer for George Michael, Tiwa’s CV as a background vocalist includes an impressive range of artists such as Mary J. Blige, Chaka Khan, Lemar, Kelly Clarkson and Andreas Bocelli. After signing with music giant SONY in 2009 as a singer/songwriter, Tiwa has written for some of today’s A list artists and producers including Babyface, and Letoya Luckett to name a few. In the misdst of all
this activity she also managed to find time, and energy to competed in the UK spin off of American Idol, the X-Factor, making it to the top 24 out of 800,000 hopefuls. With all these achievements under her belt and at such a youg age, I couldn’t help but wonder why she had decided now would be the best time to come home?
“Nigeria is home. I always knew that I would relocate back, I cant imagine raising a family anywhere else for instance. I missed it and I always wanted to incorporate my culture with my music so it made sense to relocate back at this point”
Born Nigerian and raised in Lagos until the age of 10 before moving to London with her
family, Tiwa represents the growing number of young professionals moving back to the country after many years living or studying abroad, ‘I think it is great and I think it should be encouraged. These people will bring back knowledge and experience’.
Today, on the business end Tiwa, along with friend and fellow entrepreneur Tunji “Tee Billz” Balogun, has set up her own 323 imprint label to support the already growing Nigerian music industry, “There are many opportunities for music in Nigeria. It is a fresh sound that is coming from here, many innovative artists and it is an industry that is growing very fast”.
Unlike most returnees, the songstress tries to focus on the positive changes in the country, instead of the negative; simple things like the introduction of ATM machines and cab companies give her hope for the future. While the good things are fine, one cant help but
notice the absence of certain basic necessities; one of Tiwa’s main hopes for the country is to be able to supply constant electricity to the population, a dream help by all Nigerians.So Tiwa, any final thoughts on the motherland at 50?
“I think it is an amazing thing. My country is celebrating it’s 50th year of independence, that is something we all as Nigerians should be very proud of”.I couldn’t have said it better myself.
Want to hear Tiwa sing the national anthem? Log on to www.naija-times.com
Lola Agbaje
Home grown“Nigeria is home. I always knew thatI would relocate back, I cant imagine raising a family anywhere else”
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Entertainment
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“a mobile population of over 62 million, it presents as fertile ground for brands to market”
Entertainment
The transformation of Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape since the licensing of three GSM networks in 2001 and a fourth one in 2002 has been nothing short of astounding. The country continues to be one of the fastest growing markets in Africa with triple-digit growth rates almost every single year since 2001. By 2004 it had surpassed Egypt and Morocco to become the continent’s second largest mobile market after South Africa. It is the most competitive mobile market in Africa, and yet it has only reached about one quarter of its estimated ultimate market potential. With a total population of over 154 million by 2009, and a mobile population of over 62 million, it presents as fertile ground for brands to market themselves to a wide and growing audience, via mobile marketing. Mobile marketing has both a digital definition
as well as a traditional definition. The most popular definition would involve moving billboards. In the digital definition it is, as one would expect about marketing your business message through mobile devices. For our reference we are going to be talking about mobile devices and I think it is safe to say that when one thinks of mobile marketing now-a-days mobile devices are what come to mind.
The rise of mobile as a means of advertising and marketing supports the ongoing shift of ad budgets from traditional marketing media, such as billboards, TV and radio, to more direct “below the line” forms, such as
direct mail, E-mail and the Internet. Mobile advertising promises to provide the next stage in this development, offering marketers even higher levels of advertising effectiveness and impact.
But why mobile? The answer is why not. Mobile marketing presents a brand with so many benefits including access to a highly engaged target market where the brand can market its goods and services to existing and potential customers in a targeted way; the opportunity for consumers to engage with the brand on an interactive level via product announcements, viral messaging and SMS based promotions.
The iPhone coming to market was only the beginning. It did not take long for mobile applications to make the mobile device more
useful to the consumers and with the flood of mobile applications consumers were able to find many different uses for their mobile device. Games and entertainment were only the beginning. More useful applications like tools, utilities and resources also found their way to the mobile device.
As the focus of this article is on how a business can use mobile marketing, I feel it best to look at all aspects of this marketing tool. I shall touch briefly on three specific areas, messaging services (SMS), mobile websites, and mobile applications, but will focus on messaging services for the purpose of the case study.
Tola Idowu
A New Mobile
Frontier
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Mobile Websites
With the introduction of smart phones like the iPhone and blackberry to the mass consumer market, access to online services has never been so easy. The internet is the largest resource of information on earth and now it is available on the go; another great avenue for brands to sell themselves. While any business worth its salt will have its own website, this is not enough for today’s smart phone users. Just because your website is showing on a mobile browser does not make it a mobile website. On a mobile version of a business website a user will not need to zoom in or out or pan left or right when viewing your website.
The website will be a ‘lite’ version of your primary website, with specific call-to-actions that are useful to the users visiting your mobile website.
Mobile Applications
This development came mainstream with the popularity of the iPhone. Mobile applications can be used to be useful as a tool for your customers or you may decide to have an application for branding purposes, such as creating a simple game.
While there are certainly many possibilities for mobile applications I don’t believe the impact has quite hit Nigeria…yet. So as an effective mobile marketing tactic, the population of Smartphone users, while growing steadily, cannot currently justify the amount of energy, time and money to develop this tool.
Messaging Services
This is most common form of mobile marketing, often known as “texting” and includes SMS Texting (Short Message Service) as well as MMS (Multimedia Message Service). In order for a business to tap into this marketing tool you have to first begin to get permission from prospects and customers in order to send them SMS or MMS messages. This could be easily achieved by asking your target audience to prompt the exchange, either by sending a text to a short code (a text number that consumers can send messages to, and get a response from) or signing up for the service online or in store.
Using the services of an organisation that provides SMS and/or MMS services will make this even simpler. They will go through the hassle of getting a short code assigned to you, as well as managing your campaign and marketing strategy.
For the Nigerian market, this is the easiest and fastest method of communication between the brand and its market, and is a growing method of interactivity. This brings me to my case study, Coca-Cola and their ‘Under-the-Crown’ (UTC) promotion.
At the beginning of 2010, the worlds biggest brand, and Nigeria’s number one beverage company was faced with a unique problem. The 1st of October that year would mark the 50th year of independence for the country. Many corporate organisations had already began making preparations to mark the special date, however Coca-Cola wanted to celebrate the event in its own unique only-Coke-can-do
way, at the same time celebrating Coca-Cola’s social and a cultural bond with the Nigerian people.
Built around the theme, ”A New State of Happiness,” the campaign depicts the paradigm in which a positive expectation of Nigeria ‘s future is portrayed. It represents the future Nigeria that all the citizens look forward to. This sense of happiness and hopeful optimism, Coca-Cola Managing Director, Austin Ufomba noted, is what keeps Nigerians going, “This optimistic spirit of Nigerians is what makes him/her one of the happiest individuals and that is the spirit that Coca-Cola wants to celebrate with Nigerians”. To reward this optimistic spirit the brand gave over N300 million in prizes to its consumers via an SMS promotion.
The mechanics of the promotion were simple; Coca-Cola would run a UTC promotion with
its popular 35cl and 50cl returnable glass bottles. All a consumer had to do was buy a bottle of Coke, Fanta or Sprite, look under the crown to reveal either a unique code or ‘Try Again’ message. In the case of a unique code, the consumer is expected to SMS to a specific short code advertised on posters, in newspapers, TV and radio.
In addition to the daily cash prizes of N5000, N10000 and N25000, consumers stood the chance to take home N1 million every week and a grand prize of five brand new Mitsubishi Outlander Jeeps.
Technical delivery was provided by Sponge Ltd, a leading mobile solutions provider, and ran on all GSM networks, MTN, Glo, Zain and Etisalat and two CDMAS, Starcomms and Visafone, a first time for any SMS based promotion in the country. Director of Client Services for Sponge Ltd, Yombo Pitan, commented on how effective the campaign has been, with response rates far above industry average.
The SMS campaign was far reaching and not only gave consumers the opportunity to be rewarded for drinking Coke products, but also gave Coca-Cola a human face. Consumers felt they were interacting fully with the brand as they got regular updates for each of their SMS entries.
Most brands are unaware of the full power of the mobile phone, and the extent of its reach. With mobile marketing they can reach their consumers on a more personal, interactive level. Even though this potential has been realized by the west, Nigeria is just starting to utilize this amazing marketing tool; anyone left when the train leaves the station will be playing catch up for a very long time.
“Just because your website is showing on a mobile browser does not make it a mobile website
“Most brands are unaware of the full power of the mobile phone, and the extent of its reach. With mobile marketing they can reach their consumers on a more personal, interactive level.” ”
58 naijaTimes 59
The weekend was great men. We hit the club on Friday night, and it was a such a laugh. If you know me, then you know I’m a serial clowner. I love clowning girls I talk to, ‘cos their reaction usually tells you what they’re like. Really confident women usually just laugh or clown you back. The arrogant or insecure ones just get really pissed quickly. Anyways, so this girl came up to our table on Friday and struck up a conversation with me. She was actually quite hot-looking, and I gathered she was a Nige babe ‘cos of her name. Men the girl had to be one of the fakest people I’d ever met and I swear after like fifteen minutes, you’d have thought it was a job interview.
Me- So where do you usually party?
Chick-Well I come here a lot, I also love Crystal and Boujis…..
Me- Boujis abi? How long have you been in England for?
Chick- Errrm….since 2003
Me- Wow, only four years. So why are you giving me the hard British accent now?
Chick- It’s just the way I talk.
Me- Yeah right. I moved to England when I was 14, and I’m not speaking to you with a
interesting now. How about more traditional stuff? Like efo?
Chick- Oh spinach? I’m great at that!
Me- Nice..what else?
Chick- I can also make this soup, I can’t remember the name of it now….errr..
Me- You can’t remember what it’s called?? Hmm…..what’s it look like?
Chick- Well it’s usually very dark, and it draw….it’s gooey….kinda like okra….
Me- Gooey abi?
Chick- Yes….errr….
The joker almost said “it draws.”
Me- Ogbono?
Chick- Yes! That’s it.
Me- You’re telling me you didn’t remember it was called that?
Chick- Haha, I did. I just didn’t wanna say it.
Me- ‘Cos you think it’s not cute to say ‘ogbono?’
The babe was just sitting there laughing o.
Chick- It’s not cute at all.
If I slap this razz babe. I swear I was so irritated I felt like pouring my drink over her head. Ah ah! How pretentious can people be? I bet you she speaks some ethnic Nigerian language at home and chops slap whenever her popsi’s eba is not ready on time! Joker.
It’s amazing how fake people are men. Keep it real!
British accent.
Chick- Well, I lived in England when I was very young so….
Me-Really? Awon English babes….
At some point during the conversation, the babe tells me how great a cook she is, so I ask her what she can cook.
Chick- I make very lovely Spaghetti Bolognese, sirloin steak, stuff like that.
I’m looking bored.
Me-That’s it? What else?
Chick- I can actually make nice mussel pasta too….
What the? Is this girl drunk? I’m sure she’s an amala specialist.
Me- I mean, you’re telling me you can cook all these things that I could just pick up from an Italian spot. Matter of fact, I can cook most of that stuff myself. What’s sexy to me is a girl who can cook Nige food. Now that’s hot.
Chick- Well I can cook jollof rice, fried rice, stew….
Me- Really? It’s getting a little more
Meanwhile the boys and I had a very deep conversation about it the other day. Guys were just chilling, shacking henny and red bull as usual, and we were talking about…..believe it or not…luuurve. Hehe, I know what you’re thinking. Meeeen, I think it’s the quarter-life syndrome men. You start thinking you’ve been there and done that, and kinda wanna settle down right?
Anyhow, it was me, Prettyboy, Roroski and the gang. Prettyboy said you know you’ve found the one when you can honestly be yourself around her all the time. Hmm, my theory was…..you know you’re in love when you know you’re down for a person even when you know all her scoin-scoin. Omo, don’t ask me what scoin-scoin is o….I stole it from ex-schoolnerd, but my boys and I have redefined it and we use it all the time now! Shout out to ESN!
But my people, this was a serious argument o. Prettyboy and I were talking about how, with all the hot chicks we meet, there’s always one scoin-scoin or the other. Always. Now, the argument again, is that it’s love when you love a person despite all the scoin-scoin. You accept it, you’re down for them regardless. Now that’s love. See the thing is, for most of the women I’ve met, I’ve been put off early by one small scoin-scoin, or later by bigger scoin-scoin.
For example, I remember one chick I used to date back in the day. She was a nice intelligent babe, very good-looking and whatnot, but she was extra clingy. Damn! At first I thought it was kinda cute, but men this babe took the term “touchy feely” to another level. I mean there’s nothing wrong with being affectionate, but hot damn! Ah ah! I’ll never forget the first time we slept in the same bed. Omo I woke up in the middle of the night in a panic.
“Yeeeeeee!”
Men I thought I was being strangled. As in, the
Mr Fineboy
I LOVE HER(scoin-scoin and all...)
Entertainment
60 naijaTimes 61
babe’s body don contort all around my body men. For a split second, I couldn’t make out what the hell was going on. You know when you’re still all groggy from sleep? I come begin find my leg o. Jesus! Wey my leg? Ese mi da???
I couldn’t even make out mine from hers. Inside this heat. Bloody hell. Her arm was wrapped tight around my neck and her mouth was positioned right in front of my nose. Meeeen! And I couldn’t now move ‘cos I didn’t wanna wake her up. Which kin’ wahala be this? Chei! And morning breath just dey pump! Omo I wan faint. Na so I sleep till morning o.
Men, that’s pretty much how we used to sleep. I’d be sweating like a madman in the middle of the night, but I couldn’t yarn. If I moved, she’d adjust herself again. If I turned, she’d wake up and say I was being unaffectionate. Say na wetin she dey used to. Awon boys couldn’t sleep without hugging the babe. Imagine!
This babe eh, she always had to hold hands when we stepped outside my door. EVERY MOMENT. We had to go everywhere together. Had to call her ‘baby.’ And I couldn’t complain o. I no fit tell am anything or she go wan cry. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with calling your woman baby, but when SHE gives herself the title, it starts to bother you. She say she be princess for her papa house. The girl no dey hear word o. Everything na fight. This is how she’s been treated her whole life blah blah. One time I almost said to her “You dey crase. Is this your father’s house?” My peeps, I can’t front, omo I had to dismiss the babe in the end o. That was some messed up scoin-scoin men.
I met one Fola chick one time that was nice as well. Correct chick o, good-looking, sense of humour, e’rrythang! She had a crazy sense
of style and I was really feeling the babe. But men, this girl’s nose men. Gaddem! As in, I’m not shallow or anything, but that nose dey distract me men. Kai! Sometimes she would look at me and the nose go just dey expand. No lie! One time I asked the babe, “Are you actually flaring your nostrils?” She said no. Ah ah! Wharra hell! Your nose dey talk again??? Omo, most people would say that was nothing, but that small scoin-scoin was enough to put me off men. Hehe, trivial I know, but I’m just keeping it real.
I’ll never forget Simi though. This babe was an all-round winner. I had met her at my boy’s housewarming party, and we made plans to go do shisha the next week. Men, we hung out and she was a laugh. Beautiful babe men, dimples, everything. Just hot. Mo like e gan. After our first date, we came back to my place so that she could pick up her car and drive home. I now invited her in for a coffee . We’re sitting on the couch, and next thing I know, she’s like “Where’s your bathroom please?” I show it to her and I notice say the babe rush one kin’ to enter. She was in there very briefly but omo when she came out eh?
Chineke God of Africa! The pong! Whaaaaaa?
I wanted to ask the babe what the hell kinda block she had deposited in my bathroom in such a short period. But I no talk anything sha, I just maintained like there was nothing now. I remember the girl going back and forth between my couch and the bathroom a couple of times and at the time I guessed she was fixing up her make-up or some kinda girly stuff, you know? But the girl dey sweat. I asked her “Are you okay?” She said she was fine. Why this babe dey look flustered like this now? Anyhow sha, after a couple cappuccinos, the babe went home.
My people, after the girl left, I went into the bathroom. I no know wetin me sef I dey find o. The place was still stinking, but no yawah now, it’s normal to take a dump, no? I opened the
window and then pulled up the toilet seat.
ELEDUMARE O!
This babe still had one little floater hanging around in there ni sha. Ah ah! Men, if you see the way I flew out of that toilet eh? Damn! Morrafuckin’ babe! And if you saw her on the street, you’d think she was one of those calendar models wey no dey mess.
Hmmmph! Meeeen, I couldn’t bring myself to call that chick again men. The babe sef didn’t call me back. I actually might still have called her, but her behaviour and reaction to her own block just put me off men. She for just tell awon boys say her belle dey worry am now, no problem. When I called her for the last time that night to make sure that she had gotten home safe, the girl was even trying to be a little cold on the phone. Na wa o. What the hell kind of scoin-scoin is that? After you don blast-scatter my toilet?
Funny enough, I saw the babe at some sushi bar a while after that. I was with a couple of my colleagues, and she was with her girlfriends. She even tried to pose o. I just gave her a wink from my table like, “Hmm, master blaster. How far?”
Men, my boys say sometimes I’m a little too resistant to scoin-scoin. It’s not that men. If I can’t stand your scoin-scoin, it just means I’m not feeling you like that. Like I know some people whose babes fart in front of them. CHILL! I haven’t graduated to that level yet men, but I’m sure I will with time. Chei! I
doubt it though. If my babe even thinks about messing in bed, I tell her oya oya go outside the room and go and do it. Abeg!
Ladies don’t get it twisted o. I’m not saying it’s only girls that have scoin-scoin o. I know we guys have our own too. Even more than women I’m sure. There are small things that irritate me men, like the way a person eats, and sometimes I look at some dudes, and think “This guy’s babe is trying o!” The scoin-scoin that women tolerate!
Case in point: My boy Akinzo. Gaaaaaaadem! If you see Akinzo eating eh, it’s one of the most disgusting things you’ll ever witness men. I remember when we first moved in together, I used to ask the guy, “This dude, na fight? Why you dey attack the food like that now?” My guy would have oil dribbling out the corners of his mouth and everything, and wouldn’t bother wiping it off until he had finished his meal.
Well, no problem now. I’m thinking Akinzo only eats like this at home. Omo, not so o. You see, Akinzo and I worked for the same company for like six months. We’d go out to lunch with colleagues from work sometimes, and my guy would crack the bones off the buffalo wings like there was no tomorrow. Omo, sucking and everything. Oyinbo go just dey look am. Imagine. I’d even be giving the guy eye sometimes like, “E don do now. The chicken don finish.” The guy would just blank me.
And Akinzo always used to buy Nige food
“Men, my boys say sometimes I’m a little too resistant to scoin-scoin. It’s not that men. If I can’t stand your scoin-scoin, it just means I’m not feeling you”
Entertainment
Toyin Adesola
The anticipated cry of the birth of a new baby into the world brings joy to the parent. The next few month to years, we see the child experiencing the usual teething problems, ear infection, cold etc. To the parent these are natural health issues any baby will go through, however down the line between the age of 3-6years, things begin to change. The child is found to be frequently in pain and/or anaemic where they are told then told their child suffers from sickle cell anaemia disorder. Unprepared, hospital visits and admissions have become a regular pastime. The unprepared parent begins to feel the stress of taking care of a health challenged child, yet in most cases the child may not even live to their 5th birthday. Early detection of SCD in the child would have increased the chances of its mortality.
Sickle cell disorder or SCD an inherited blood disorder, affect mainly people of African origin. The red blood cells are abnormally (sickle) shaped, and can lead to life-threatening complications. This disorder is most likely to be fatal in the first few years of life since affected children are at higher risk of serious infections. In 2008, the United Nation adopted a motion declaring SCD is a public health problem. Of the 150,000 estimated to be born annually in Nigeria only
25% of them would make it their 5th birthday. There is therefore an imperative need for new born screening in the health policies of the country.
Newborn screening is the practice of testing every newborn for certain harmful or potentially fatal disorder that are not otherwise evident at birth. This includes other disorders that have problems with hormones or the blood. Many of these are metabolic disorders (often called “inborn errors of metabolism”) that interfere with the body’s use of nutrients to maintain healthy tissues and produce energy.
The purpose of diagnosing sickle cell disease (SCD) in newborns is to allow health personnel, educate parents about the special needs of the child and also to begin preventive treatment before the child begins to develop complications of the disorder. Many of these complications affect and kill young children before doctors even suspect that they have the disease.
New born screening (NBS) with the help of a simple blood test, can often tell doctors whether newborns have certain conditions that could eventually cause problems. Even though these conditions are considered rare
62 naijaTimes 63
Importance of New Born Screening in Sickle Cell Anaemia
Health
from this lady who drove around selling take-away packs from the back of her van. I never could buy that stuff men, you know how sometimes Nigerian food abroad is some second-class take on real Nigerian grub? That’s how this woman’s food was. She’d have rice with a lot of stew just poured untidily over it. It certainly wasn’t the type of thing you’d wanna eat in public.
So that’s how one day my guy ordered food from the lady o. In my head I’m thinking, “Awwww, hell no! This dude is not gonna eat this ish at work.”
Akinzo ran downstairs and came back upstairs with his box of food. He laid it out on the table and started eating. Needless to say now, the whole place reeked of stew. Oyinbo colleagues now started walking past, looking at Akinzo’s meal, then using style to give each other those their amebo glances like “Mr. black man don come again!”
My boy didn’t even send, he was just quaffing away. At some point, Mr. Davies, my boss looked in at Akinzo, who was battling a big chunk of cowleg.
Oga- Akinz!
Akinzo-Huhn?
Oga (looking terrified)-What the hell is that???
Akinzo (grinning with oil all over his lips)-It’s cowleg.
Oga-What?
Akinzo- Cowleg! It’s very good.
You should have seen the look on my boss’ face. He just rushed past me in the corridor. I was so embarrassed. This Akinzo sef. She na for office you go come dey chop cowleg?
Akinzo left for Nige not long after that, and I remember going for lunch with Mr.Davies and one other oga. Mr. Davies says,
“Scott, Akinz has moved back to his homeland Nigeria. I kid you not, one day I saw that kid gnawing on a cow’s hoof in the office at lunch time. It was the most disgusting thing I’d ever seen. I thought I was gonna puke. That African kid- I tell you, he exhibited some real cannibalistic traits. You ever see that boy eat chicken wings? He would devour it right down to the bone, sucking in the marrow and everything! That kid would only leave shrapnel
on his plate by the time he was done!”
The other oga looked terrified.
Omo, I wanted to cover my head in shame. Bloody hell mate.
Damn, how did I end up talking about Akinzo’s eating habits? Men I don digress as usual. But my point is, the guy had a babe and she loved him with all his dietary scoin-scoins. So love your woman/man guys, scoin-scoin and all, it’s a beautiful thing!
“you know how sometimes Nigerian food abroad is some second-class take on real Nigerian grub? That’s how this woman’s food was”
64
Mysterious shopperI am a firm subscriber to the school of thought that Nigerian men don’t date, they don’t know how to. I can’t remember when last I went on an actual date, in fact I had even forgotten they existed, until I got ask out on one over the weekend. The plan was to catch a movie and just make nuisances of ourselves around the venue. Drinks where mentioned. As it turns out God always has a different plan in store. Gods plan involved me arriving at Silverbird Cinemas 45 minutes late, with my date showing up 15 minutes later. This might be considered rude but all I thought was ‘match made in heaven’. Needless to say, we had missed our movie and as such moved straight on to the making nuisances of ourselves portion of the evening, which made us both hungry.
When he suggested we grab something to eat my eyes immediately flew to the Barcelos on a lower floor (don’t judge me, I’m easy to please). Evidently my date failed to notice my longing look and suggested the M café on the ground floor of the cinema. I shrugged my shoulders and said ‘sure’, after all, I had heard of it before from a few friends so I wasn’t too put out. What’s the worst that they could serve?
I wish I had pushed for the Barcelos.
M café was not what I expected. It’s a glamorized office canteen, with mirrored walls reflecting the food counter in which several platters of food had been laid out to die. Now it could just be me, as I don’t approve of the putting-out-pans-of-food-
naijaTimes 65
The Shop
under-a-glass-counter-with-fluorescent-lights method of catering. I expected fresh food, I got made sometime between today and this moment. Not only did it not look appetising it didn’t taste that great either; I mean it wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t all that good.
After sitting under artificial heat for so long I had to take pity on their jollof rice and have some. As the person behind the counter was microwaving the food I kept praying that it wouldn’t be spoilt or taste too bad; I didn’t even bother with the meat, lest I get food poisoning. No worries there as my rice had enough salt to wake the dead. I got the impression that the rice would be quite tasty if the chef had been restrained from over salting. My date seem satisfied with his order of jollof rice, chicken and snails, so no complaints from him.
On a positive note though the staff were extremely friendly and helpful, no matter how annoying we got as customers. The décor, while questionable actually grew on me (I am a sucker for sparkly things). The atmosphere was relaxed and couples could find a nice corner in which to gaze lovingly into their partner’s eyes.
Would I eat there again? No. Would I recommend it to anybody else? Sure; if you don’t mind how your food is presented, or are into that sort of thing.
Oh, and FYI the date went swimmingly! And I didn’t get food poisoning!
Overall
Ambience: 6/10
Food: 5/10
Taste and Range: 4/10
Customer Service: 9/10
and most babies are given a clean bill of health, early diagnosis and proper treatment can make the difference between lifelong impairment and healthy development.
Regular antibiotics and immunisations reduce the risk of infections, and if sickle cell status is known, treatment can be started early. Screening babies allows early diagnosis and therefore early treatment will therefore reduce morbidity and mortality health conditions in Nigeria.
Neonatal or newborn screening would help forestall complication and provide early counselling for the parents, who in turn are in a capacity to educate family, friends and other individuals for better enlightenment.
The use of new born screening is available in a number of countries where SCD is prevalent like UK, USA, Brazil, and Jamaica to even African countries as Ghana, Republic of Benin and Ivory Coast. Screening programs for SCD, initiated in the United States and Jamaica, have led to sharply reduced mortality and morbidity of the disease in young children. However it is disheartening to note that Nigeria being said to account from 75% of SCD births in Africa and ranked number one among the sickle cell endemic countries has no new born screening policy or management system.
Only this year the government of Oyo State embarked and the process of new born screening, an initiative that is laudable.
Nevertheless, this is just a drop in the ocean, it is therefore of great necessity that parents, individuals, NGO’s and health organisations put pressure on the government to provide a proper effective policy towards the issue of sickle cell especially having an effective new born screening program. Many more states need to initiate the NBS program, only then can effective treatment assist in elevating the emotional and physical challenges faced by people with SCD and their familiesToyin Adesola
UPCOMING EVENT
Sickle Cell Advocacy & Management Initiative with is brand project TOUCH A CELL will
be having an awareness dance a thon coming up on the 20th of November. The event will feature dance choreography, dance battles, music and more with the provision of free genotype screening. Watch out for details. For further information, partnership or sponsorship contact SAMI on 0809800SAMI (7264)
ACTION POINT
Do you know your genotype? Genotype is not the same as your blood group. Check your genotype so you can make wise choices.
A person with SCD needs your encouragement not your pity. Show them love today
Regular antibiotics and immunisations reduce the risk of infections, and if sickle cell status is known, treatment can be started early
66 naijaTimes
The Chariot(Hotels & Hospitality)2/4 Akinbolagbe Street, Off Ligali Ayorinde StreetVictoria Island, Lagos01-2703651, 08023166834www.chariot-group.com
Twice As Nice(Shirts & Accessories)55 Opebi Road, Ikeja, Lagos08038491208
Lace Fabrique Collection(Fabrics & Laces)43 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos08029461611, 01-7412651
Candor Foods Limited(Fishery & Bakery products)2 Olafuyi Close, Isale Haruna, Ifako, Lagos08060802646
The Manor(Event Centre-3 Multipurpose Halls)Opposite Treasure Gardens Estate,2nd Roundabout, Lekki Phase One.08035252211; 07041969855; [email protected]
Made in Nigeria.AfricaOperation feed the Masses18 Oremeji Street, Ikeja. Computer Village0813667720707023031156 Fionanne Unisex Salon & SpaSalon & SpaUnit 11 & 12, Adebola Mall, 53 Isaac John Street.GRA Ikeja014817184, 08033187604 Reekson Catering ServicesCatering1 Austin Coker Drive, Harmony Estate, Ogba.08023216007, 08053895756 Affordables Comm. LtdTelecommunications7 Kodesoh Street, Computer Village, Ikeja.08023458077, 018190557www.affordablesphonesng.com
Doshlaps Ventures Limited(Blinds Experts)Suite 191, BLK A2 – 16 Sura Shopping Complex Lagos.0700 – DOSHLAPS, 0802 3002455 Kuddy Cosmetics Int’l. Ltd.Importer, Exporter, Wholesales & CosmeticsShop F17 – 19 Delta Plaza BBA Trade Fair Complex08023045983 Mandy Utd.Style, Entertainment & Promotions18 Oremeji Street, off Medical road, Ikeja.028767642
Artezia Security SystemsAccess Control, CCTV, Fire & Integrated Security Systems)215A Etim Inyang Crescent,Victoria Island.0802.70.70.700; 01-7944960
Icecool Contracts Limited (Domain Management, Web Design, hosting & Internet Consultants)315 Akin Ogunlewe Street, Victoria Island.0700 ICE COOL (423 2665), 0803 3787067 [email protected]://www.icecoolcontracts.com.ng
Sleek Hair (Human hair extensions & Wigs)64B Anifowoshe Street (off Adeola Odeku Street), Victoria Island0802 9429215www.sleeknigeria.com
Ismail and Partners 106/110 Lewis Street, Lagos Island.01-8197664; 01-8103014enquiries@ismailandpartners.comwww.ismailandpartners.com
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Creative Cuisine Caterers(Catering)Block 6, Apartment 2,Ilubirin/Osborne Foreshore Phase 2,Ikoyi0803 3151418, 07025395208, 01-7624420
Circa 64 Jewellery(Contemporary Handcrafted Jewellery)5 Sanusi Fafunwa Street,Victoria Island.08028546266; 08026888826www.circa64online.com
The Orchid Bistro(Restaurant, Bakery Products, Catering)58A Isaac John Street, GRA, Ikeja.01-7739090, [email protected]
Ann Marie(Health & Beauty Spa)58A Isaac John, Street, GRA, Ikeja.08075505000, 01-4545365
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Pitter Patter(Children’s shoes & Accessories)Shop 5, Adebola Shopping Mall,53 Isaac John Street, Ikeja08033019736, [email protected]
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CN Media(Media Marketing)27 Kakawa Street, Lagos Island08032864151
Rahy-Ali Reliable Realtors23 Oladosu Street, [email protected]
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DGRooms(Corporate, native, Kaftans & Fashion designers)6/8 Babalola Gardens, Lekki Phase One07029811142; 08028325927London: 07906832947; [email protected]
Powercell(Renewable Energy: Inverters, UPS & Solar)17 Unity Road, Ikeja08037177539; [email protected]
Taiwo Adesina Printing Ent.(TAPE)Printer173 Ipaja Road,Agege0806 2084431, 08023045933
Aquatech Consultancy Services(Factory, procurement, installation and management of food processing plants)4a Silas, Ebute Stree, Makurdi, Benue State08076899336, 07030096006
Dapana(Beauty Spa & Health)Lagos08086568553, 07034346987
M & E Ventures(Blinds, Laminate Floors & Interior Design)7 Hawley Street, Lagos Island.08023226537, [email protected]
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Okoli & Magnus Pharmacy and Supermarket ltd(Quality at the right price)Shop 43b, Eti-Osa Way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi.08023178005, 019531100, [email protected]
