Happy New Year!

Saying goodbye to year 2012 and welcome to a brand new year 2013. 

We wish you all our readers -12 Months of happiness, 52 weeks of fun, 365 Days of laughter, 8760 hours of good luck, 525600 Minutes of joy and 31536000 seconds of success.

 Happy New Year in advance!!

LG to unveil 100-inch TV in January

LG Electronics is set to unveil its mammoth 100-inch ‘LG Hecto’ laser TV projector at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January.

“LG’s 100-inch class Laser TV takes projection technology and makes it perfectly suitable for both the boardroom and the living room,” Havis Kwon, President and CEO of the LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company has said.

“In the coming year, LG will continue to introduce innovative TV products to provide an outstanding productivity and entertainment experience for our customers.”

LG claimed that the laser TV projector’s size will make installation and viewing easier by allowing users to place the lens just 22 inches (56 cm) from the screen. Users will have the option to position the projector near the floor or have it fixed to the ceiling.

The Laser TV makes installation and viewing easier by allowing users to place the lens a mere 22 inches (approximately 56 centimeters) from the screen, while having the flexibility to position it near the floor or fasten it to the ceiling. It offers 1080p Full HD resolution and 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, rendering vivid and crisp images that pop out in dark as well as lighter environments.

It also has a digital tuner and two 10W built-in speakers embedded in the projection unit to support virtual surround sound for a more authentic cinema experience at home. A complete complement of inputs, including 3 HDMIs, allow for connection of other source devices.

Rival Samsung is also unveiling its LED-based Smart TV at the electronics trade show in Las Vegas.

Heineken Unveils New Global Bottle in Abuja

Heineken, the world’s leading international premium beer has unveiled a new global bottle to consumers and distributors in Abuja and other towns in the north. The brand, which constantly looks for opportunities to set new world standards, did not disappoint consumers from the north as it held a spectacular unveiling ceremony that elevated the excitement level of consumers and distributors present at the event.

The unveiling ceremony of this new global bottle was held at the prestigious Nicon Luxury hotel in Abuja.  It was a remarkable event that Heineken exploited effectively to set new global standards and hold every guest spell-bound all through the event.

L-R National Trade marketing manager Wietse Mutters ; Regional Business Manager Shaibu Mohammed & Marketing Director Walter Dernth at the Heineken Trade Briefing in Abuja

Speaking after a highly entertaining dance performance that heralded the formal presentation of the new global bottle in a case, Walter Drenth, The Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries said that Heineken, has been an outstanding brand in Nigeria and the fastest growing beer brand in the country because of its unique packaging and retinue of distributors that ensure that the brand gets to the hands of its consumers wherever they are. He also revealed that the new world class and innovative bottle comes in 60 and 33cl content which is specially designed to match the premium quality that Heineken always delivers.

Revealing how dear the Nigerian market is to Heineken, Drenth said “It is a uniform Heineken bottle across the world and I am proud that Nigeria is one of the first countries to introduce this new design on a returnable bottle. This bottle is designed with true perfection to match the premium quality that Heineken always delivers”.

Taking the audience through the uniqueness of the bottle, The National Trade Marketing, Weitse Mutters stressed that the crown cork is new and improved with a silver rim. The new green neck foil is inspired by the shape of a smile and is now wrapped around a more graceful longer neck. For the 33cl bottle, a longer neck with a red star to symbolize Heineken’s strong heritage is what consumers will see.

The Regional Business Manager- Abuja, Ayo Lawal also took time to explain plans to facilitate the smooth distribution of the new Heineken in the north and what distributors should expect in the coming festive period and in the next few months and years. He said the new bottles and crates will replace the old ones in record time. New promotional incentives and in –bar publicity materials that will enhance sales and patronage were also unveiled to distributors in the north.

LG Electronics Bags Most Trusted Brand Award

LG Electronics, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, has bagged the 2012 Most Trusted Brand Award as the most trusted home appliance brand in Nigeria.

The award was awarded by BrandHealth in recognition of LG Electronics’ innovative products that have made quality home appliances available to Nigerians.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of BrandHealth, Mr Emman Udowoima, said: “Going by the research we conducted, the LG brand is undisputedly the most trusted home appliance brand in Nigeria. LG has distinguished itself going by the array of quality products it has on offer”.

Also speaking at the event the Corporate Marketing Manager, LG Electronics, Mr Rajesh Agnihotri, said: “We are committed to providing our teeming consumers with first-rate products that meet their peculiar needs. Our responsive posture is what has endeared many to the LG brand”.

The Most Trusted Brand awards is organised annually by BrandHealth, a brands research company. This year’s event was the third edition. It is an initiative developed and executed as a campaign to mobilize Nigerian consumers to ask for accountability from organisations who offer them goods and services.

In recent times, LG has introduced into the Nigerian market forward-thinking home appliances, one of which is the robot vacuum cleaner known as Hom-Bot. This stand-alone robot is capable of cleaning floors independently, allowing people to focus on things that matter most.  Another is the LG Anti-mosquito Air Conditioner which comes with an ultrasonic device that gives off ultrasonic sound at a frequency of 30-100KHZ. This sound knocks down as well as repels mosquitoes which are the carrier of the malaria parasite.

Promasidor elevates Onyekachi Onubogu to Commercial Director

Promasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of quality food products has elevated Mr. Onyekachi Onubogu to the position of Commercial Director with effect from January 1, 2013. Prior to this elevation, he had been the Marketing Director of the company since February 2012.

 Onyekachi Onubogu

 Onyekachi, is an experienced marketing and business development manager with cross functional and multi-national living and working experience across Africa. His career has spanned over 18years in the sales, marketing, finance and general management functions.

He joined Promasidor in September 2010 as General Manager Marketing. Before joining Promasidor, he was an associate director with Prosperity Capital Management, Nairobi in Kenya from September 2008 to September 2010 as well as marketing manager with Family Care, Kimberly Clark South Africa from January 2008 to August 2008.

Onyekachi has also worked with Guinness Nigeria Plc as marketing manager for two years and with Procter & Gamble in Nigeria and South Africa for Ten years.

Mr. Onubogu is an Alumni of the prestigious Wharton Business School , where he studied Advanced Management Programme in 2012 .

He also has a Masters Degree in Business Administration from the Gordon’s Institute of Business Sciences, University of Pretoria South Africa and a first degree in Physics from the University of Jos Nigeria.

NEF Pledges Constant Support for Youths

New Era Foundation, a social enterprise founded for youth development and women empowerment, has pledged to continually come up with constructive initiatives to develop youths in the country through knowledge and skills acquisition.

Speaking with journalists at the recently concluded three-day youth empowerment programme organized by the body in collaboration with LADOL Integrated Logistics Enterprise (LILE) at the New Era Foundation Camp in Ibeju Lekki, Lagos, the Executive Director of New Era Foundation, Mr Yemi Osilaja, affirmed that the organization’s mission of supporting the youth will continue to improve.

Participants at the New Era Foundation Camp, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos yesterday

Commenting on the just concluded event which was tagged “Friendship, Inspiration, Training (FIT), Mr. Osilaja stated that, the aim of the training would have been achieved if the participants leave the camp with utmost confidence to contribute to societal development and make meaningful impact in changing the leadership issues in Nigeria. Our job as an NGO is to provide a role model for high ethical behaviour, instil the respect and trust needed for youths to take up key leadership positions in this country.

Managing Director, LADOL Integrated Logistics Enterprise, Dr Amy Jadesimisaid the move to support NEF to train the youths was driven by the importance of youth in every economy. “Our partnership with New Era Foundation is borne out the drive to provide and support initiatives that promote key aspects of the youth development Leadership process and promoting societal norms that will address issues surroundings youths and leadership in Nigeria’’she said.  

Jadesimi highlighting the company’s interest in the country, disclosed that Integrated Logistics Enterprise (LILE), is an indigenous company, the owner and operator of the first and only deep offshore logistics base in Lagos (LADOL), providing comprehensive and strategic support services for deep water offshore oil and gas operations and projects in and around Nigeria.

The training addressed the social, ethical, emotional and cognitive competencies of the participants and had 48 youths between the ages 17-30 years drawn from past winners of the NEF Spelling Bee, who now form the peer-mentoring group, known as the Council of One Day Governors (CODG), Ogun state winners of the competition as well as awardees of Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s Lagos Central Senatorial District Scholarship Scheme.

YouTube Unveils Capture App For Easy Video Recording And Sharing on iOS

Google owned video sharing platform, YouTube has unveiled a new free app for iPhone and iPod touch, which allows to use artistic filters when making the clip.

Source: YouTube

The new product called YouTube Capture, which has been added by Google to the iTunes Store, is a must-have app for those who love adding an artistic touch to videos and sharing them just after they’re ready.

Users can post their videos simultaneously to YouTube, Google+, Facebook, and Twitter, or upload them privately. Advanced features let users perform color correction and stabilization, edit the video length, and even add music.

The app links to the iOS Camera Roll, letting you share any videos on your phone using Capture. It uploads video in the background when you finish recording.

Facebook to introduce TV-like commercials on News Feed in 2013

Social media giant, Facebook is set to introduce a new advertising feature in the form of TV-like commercials on the News Feed section of its social networking site, next year, as the company looks to reap profits from advertising.

Facebook is in talks with big advertising agencies, and if all goes well the advertisers will have their adverts played up to three times a day to the site’s users. It is also working on a way to ensure that the video ads stand out on the mobile apps as well, though it is unclear how exactly the company will accomplish this.

While specific features are still being discussed within company walls, industry executives who have been briefed on the company’s plans say these video ads will give advertisers the chance to target video ads to Facebook users via their news feeds, on the desktop version of the site first, then on mobile apps as well.

“All of the executives interviewed view the new video ad product as a blatant attempt on Facebook’s part to wrest big ad dollars from TV budgets,” writes Jason Del Rey at AdAge.

The videos will be capped at 15 seconds in length, with the company still debating whether the ads will play automatically or not.

Samsung Displaces Nokia as Top Cellphone Brand in 2012

Samsung set to seize the mobile phone market’s top rank. First time in 14 years, wireless communications giant Nokia will not sit atop the global cellphone business on an annual basis at the end of 2012.

A report from research firm IHS iSuppli, Samsung is expected to account for 29 percent of worldwide cellphone shipments, up from 24 percent in 2011, Nokia’s share this year will drop to 24 percent, down from 30 percent last year. Apple is ranked third, with its market share growing to 10 percent from 3 percent last year.

“The competitive reality of the cellphone market in 2012 was ‘live by the smartphone; die by the smartphone,’” said Wayne Lam, senior analyst for wireless communications at IHS. “Smartphones represent the fastest-growing segment of the cellphone market—and will account for nearly half of all wireless handset shipments for all of 2012. Samsung’s successes and Nokia’s struggles in the cellphone market this year were determined entirely by the two companies’ divergent fortunes in the smartphone sector.”

IHS iSuppli reported that HTC and RIM face challenges along with Nokia. HTC is facing a tough battle against Samsung, an acknowledged technology powerhouse, in the Android smartphone market. Market share for HTC will shrink to 5 percent in 2012, down from 9 percent in 2011.

Global smartphone shipments are set to rise by 35.5 percent this year, while overall cellphone shipments will increase by approximately 1 percent. This rapid growth will propel 2012 smartphone penetration to 47 percent, up from 35 percent in 2011.

MTN Upgrades Play portal

MTN has launched its revamped content portal, MTN Play (www.mtnplay.com), in line with its commitment to enhance users’ experience and its delivery of digital products and services.

First introduced in 2009, the upgraded portal caters for a range of mobile handsets and operating systems, from very basic models to today’s most advanced smartphones and tablets.

The new-look MTN Play is much more than a digital portal for music, says Christian De Faria, MTN Group Chief Commercial Officer. Key improvements include better usability, a fresher and more appealing look, easier site navigation, better content categorisation, end user customisation and flexible payment options.

De Faria says the recent success of the MTN branded Opera Mini browser, along with customer insights, points to an MTN footprint that’s poised for exponential growth in data usage. “This has necessitated MTN’s renewed focus on MTN Play as a key product.”

De Faria says the upgrading of MTN Play is in keeping with MTN’s affirmation that a strong focus on digitisation will usher in a new world order for emerging markets, where access to education, financial services and entertainment content is merely at a click of button.

The revamped MTN Play portal is now live in Rwanda, Uganda, Ghana and Zambia, with other MTN markets to follow.

Turkish Cargo Partners Greater Washington in Logistics Deal

In a bid to expand its brand equity, attract new customers and improve business logistics in the society, Greater Washington Limited (GWL), the only licensed cargo company in Nigeria recently signed a new pact with Turkish Cargo.

The joint venture partnership was held at the classic La Mango in GRA, Ikeja. It marked the finalisation of a general sales agent deal and a new beginning in the aviation and air haulage industry.

L-R: Vice President, Greater Washington/Turkish Cargo, Shakeclah Naransamy; winner of Manchester United Ticket, Mr. Hakeem Ajiwokeu of NAHCO Aviance Plc and Executive Vice President/CEO, Greater Washington, Mr. Owolabi Awosan, during the unveiling of a new partnership contract between Greater Washington Logistics and Turkish Cargo in Lagos... recently

Several professionals and aviation experts were on board to witness the historic feat which will position Greater Washington as the exclusively authorised agent, through which all Turkish Cargo shipment will be made from Nigeria. Turkish cargo will deliver to over 210 international destinations across the world with 3 freighters every week capable of carrying over 80 tonnes of cargo. The vast opportunities embedded in the Nigerian export and agricultural production sector will provide service excellence from GWL to all the manufacturing, service and production industries.

According to the Executive Vice President/CEO, GWL, Mr. Owolabi Awosan, “the cargo business in Nigeria still provides an enormous opportunity even with the low percentage of patronage and there is a gap in the supply chain management structure which is also has huge profit turnover.” He said, “The cargo companies in the country have the capacity to distribute manufactured goods using Lagos as a hub and through the domestic airlines to other African counties like Benin Republic, Mali, Libreville and Brazzaville”.

The Director, Turkish Cargo Africa, Mr. Tarik Parlak in his presentation showed the company’s extensive flight network of more than 82 countries with over 200 destinations across the world.

The firm is a market leader and the fastest growing domestic cargo company with heavy investments in cutting edge technology. Turkish Cargo is the 5th largest airline with technological driven logistics solutions and 145 interline connections globally and a-state-of-the-art freighter airlines.

Twitter Hits Over 200 Million Active Users

The social media and micro-blogging service, Twitter on its officially page announced that it now has over 200 million monthly active users.

The news rounds off an important year for Twitter, which has played a major role in some of the key events of 2012, including the London Olympic Games and Barack Obama's re-election in United State of America.

In March, Twitter officially turned six years old (it was created in March 2006 by Jack Dorsey and launched that July). At that time, the company announced 140 million MAUs who were sending 340 tweets per day. That means that Twitter has grown by around 60 million MAUs in about nine months.

It could be recalled that on September 8 2011, Twitter crossed over 100 million active users. At that time, Twitter CEO Dick Costolo said that about half of Twitter’s MAUs log on every day.

Advertising revenues at Twitter grew 213% to $139.5 million in 2011—the company’s second full year of selling advertising—and strong international growth is expected to push the company’s ad revenues to $259.9 million in 2012, according to a forecast by eMarketer.

Since its launch, Twitter has become one of the ten most visited websites on the Internet, and has been described as "the SMS of the Internet." Unregistered users can read tweets, while registered users can post tweets through the website interface, SMS, or a range of apps for mobile devices.

Cowbell Academy partners Vitesse Arnhem FC of Holland to train 400 Nigerian coaches

As earlier reported, Cowbell Football Academy (CFA) and Soya, a Holland-based non-governmental organisation under the umbrella of Free-Kicks have entered into partnership with Vitesse Arnhem FC of Holland to train about 400 coaches in Nigeria in the next three years.

L-R: Godwin Dudu-Orumen, Rector,Cowbell Football Academy, Barrister Seyi Akinwumi, Chairman Lagos Football Association, Harrald Stelder, Dutch coach and Sylvester Okonkwo, Proprietor of Soya, an Holland-based NGO at the on-going training of 60 coaches and 400 youth footballers by Dutch youth football coaches at the National Stadium Surulere Lagos on Monday.

Mr. Godwin Dudu-Orumen, the Rector of the CFA disclosed this in Lagos yesterday at the National Institute of Sports at the on-going training of 60 coaches and 400 youth footballers by Dutch youth football coaches under the free-kicks initiative.

Dudu-Orumen said the partnership is coming on the heels of the realisation that poor coaching is a major problem of Nigerian football. “Nigerian football needs a revolution and that revolution we have decided to take on with CFA. We have identified poor coaching as a major problem of football in Nigeria. We want to train 400 coaches in the next three years who will in turn train about 6,000 footballers across the country,” Dudu-Orumen said.

He said they invited 10 coaches out of the 60 coaches participating in the current training from outside Lagos while 50 are from clubs within Lagos, adding that these coaches will expand the vision and every year, we will have upgrade for them.

Mr. Sylvester Okonkwo, a member of the board of trustees of Free-Kicks as well as the proprietor of Soya, an Holland based NGO committed to youth football development in Nigeria and driven by Mr. Sylvester Okonkwo, a member of the board of Free-kickswho facilitated the trip of the Dutch coaches also said they come up with this project to address the problem Nigerian football is facing.

He encouraged the Nigerian coaches to ask questions when the need arise because the Dutch coaches are amiable gentlemen. “You have an important role to play in Nigerian football because you interfaced with the footballers directly.”

Ribena Partners Tetra Pak on 'Drink It, Flatten It and Bin It, Recycle Project

Ribena, the premium fruit drink from the stable of GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Plc (GSK) is partnering with Tetra Pak, a world leader in food processing and packaging, on Ribena/Tetra Pak “Drink it, Flatten it and Bin it” campaign to make life better.

L-R: Mr. Opesanwo Adewale, Managing Director of Oliver Adams, a recycling firm; Ms. Chidilim Menakaye, West Africa Communications Manager, Tetra Pak; and Mr. Olawale Akanbi, Brand Manager, Ribena, at the press announcement of a Ribena-Tetra Pak joint recycle project tagged “drink it, flatten it and bin it” campaign, in Lagos recently.

The campaign is school-based recycling contest requiring collection of used Tetra Pak cartons of Ribena for the production of furniture for school children in less privileged communities in Lagos State. The announcement was made at a press conference held in Lagos recently.

Expressing the thoughts behind the Ribena/Tetra Pak “Drink it, Flatten it and Bin it” campaign at the press conference, the Brand Manager, Ribena, Mr. Olawale Akanbi said “we believe that it is our duty as a corporate organisation to continually reinforce attitudes that will help enhance our society and preserve our environment. We are all responsible for our collective future and as a brand that is focused on improving the quality of human life; we see the need to work with the young ones with the hope to help them imbibe the right attitude towards our environment”.

Tetra Pak West Africa Communications Manager, Chidilim Menakaya said, “True to our motto, ‘Protects What’s Good’, Tetra Pak’s commitment to consumers, customers and all stakeholders goes beyond protecting the contents in a Tetra Pak carton but also actively promoting initiatives that encourage environmental awareness and sustainability. We are always excited to partner with organisations around the globe who share our belief and commitment. I must say that we have found in Ribena, a worthy partner in driving awareness about the benefits of recycling Tetra Pak cartons and how they are ‘Good for Kids’ by providing good nutrition from the Ribena drink loved by all kids and how they are ‘Good for the Earth’ by being recyclable.”

A combination of volunteers from GSK –makers of Ribena and Tetra Pak went on an awareness campaign in all the schools over a period of about six weeks to educate the children and ensure that they understand exactly what the campaign is all about.

Schools in Dustbin Estate in Ajegunle have been designated as the beneficiary of the project as the Ribena – Tetra Pak project will be donating schools furniture produced from the recycled used cartons to children in schools in the estate. Ribena/Tetra Pak “Drink it, Flatten it and Bin it” campaign will be working together with recyclers to ensure that the used Tetra Pak cartons gathered by each school are moved regularly to the recycling site to avoid littering of the school.

It was further revealed that the Ribena/Tetra Pak “Drink it, Flatten it and Bin it” campaign has already kicked off in 20 schools in Lagos State, among which are Tender Stars School, Corona School, Fasta International School, Mind Builders School, Dansol School, Trinity School, Airforce Primary School.

BrandiQ Yuletide Edition Hits News Stand

A fresh issue of BrandiQ, a specialized magazine which focus on brands and marketing has now hit the news stand across the country for the delight of marketing communications savvy readers.

The magazine which was recently berthed into the media landscape, represents a viable  template of unparalleled  journalistic masterpiece  With a crop of  broad-based cerebral writers and seasoned  practitioners in  the sphere of the integrated marketing communication industry, Brand iQ is poised to be the bastion of contemporary specialized journalism among  higher institutions  within the west African sub-region.

According to the Editor of the BrandiQ, Mr. Usukuman Ntia, the publication intends to blaze the trail in the reportage of burning issues within the ambits of marketing communication industry while also seeking to connect with its vast readers across the globe.

His words: “In the not too distant future, we will extend our involvement and coverage to interactive events and innovative initiative to expand your sphere experience. We know you would have strong opinions after reading this maiden edition. If you would like to draw from your depth of professional experience to contribute to contribute to our subsequent editions, please take the liberty to contact us by phone or e-mail. It is indeed our goal to provide a solid platform where the best brand analyst and handlers can share their wealth of experience”.

The BrandiQ tutorial package, gives students and fresh entry practitioners the opportunity to learn first hand from the masters of the principles, practices, and business of marketing communication. This surely will complement and enhance their understanding of the world of communication. The overall goal, however, is to empower them right from school to become better graduates for the development of the industry.

With the contribution of some key professionals in the marketing communication industry such as Dr. Phil Osagie, CEO of JSP Communications; Dr. Josef Bel-Molokwu, former APCON Registrar and Senior Associate, Pan African University; Dr. Casmir Onukogu, Senior Lecturer, ESUT Business school; Mr. Idorenyen Enang, former commercial director, Cadbury and now Managing Director, Samsung Nigeria/West Africa - the publication first maiden edition received lot of accolade from Advertising industry to Public Relations among others.

Pictures: Smirnoff Thrills Fans at 3D Disco Party

Sensational female hip hop artiste, Goldie; Smirnoff Midnight Circus ringmaster, Denrele; Femi Akinrinade, Smirnoff brand manager; up and coming female rap artiste, Eva Alordiah at the Smirnoff 3D Disco party at the Smirnoff 3D Disco party held last Friday at Landmark event centre, Oniru, Lagos

Fast rising and award winning artiste, Ice prince serenading hundreds of guests with his new single 'Aboki' at the Smirnoff 3D Disco party

Up and coming male rapper, Vector got the guests carried away with his out the world rap performance 

Some fans having fun at the 3D Disco party

Denrele, the Circus ringmaster thrilling a guest

Smirnoff 3D Disco party signatures

Diamond Bank hosts 26th 'Diamond Business Xpress Enterprise Series'

In a guest to promote sustainable entrepreneurship, Diamond Bank Plc, has hosted the 26th Diamond Business Xpress Enterprise Series for entrepreneurs in Lagos themed ‘Catalyst for growing your Business.’

Mrs. Ayona Aguele-Trimnell, Head, Corporate communication of the bank explained that the seminar was to ensure that business owners were well grounded in business. “The reason why we introduced this business clinic is to help people in same type of business to grow. Here we learn business techniques and strategies to help expand the business.”

“Going on, for constant participants at the ‘Diamond Business Xpress Enterprise Series’, they will have the opportunity of borrowing from the bank at lower interest rates than others who do not participate. Since we have all your records and we are sure that your business will take a new turn as you have participated in the seminar, we will offer you low interest that we know will be beneficial to you.”

The facilitator, President/CEO Superflux International Limited, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi who spoke on the theme ‘Catalyst for growing your Business’, said the series will teach SMEs owners on how to invest in their business.

“We want to them to learn how to make tangible investment into their business. Some people fail to learn the basis in business before getting involved in business. With this series, everyone here will go back home a different person ready to take their business to a different level which will be good for our country.”

Promasidor promises continuous support for Orile-Iganmu youths

As part of its corporate social responsibilities’, Promasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of Cowbell Milk, has promised to continue supporting the youths of Orile-Iganmu community in Lagos.

National Art Theatre, Orile Iganmu

Chief Keith Richards, Managing Director of the company gave this assurance at the 9th graduation ceremony of the Orile-Iganmu Progressive Association (OIPA) Training Institute held in Lagos over the weekend.He stated that the company is very honoured to be part of the ceremony and will continue to support the initiative.

In an address of welcome, Mr. Olabode Medale, President OIPA said the association is very excited to be releasing new batch of computer literate youths into the Nigerian population. He also said the association is very grateful to corporate bodies for their support and encourage them to not relent in their efforts.

“We are very happy today because we are releasing another set of computer literate youths into the Nigerian market and also looking at the number of graduating participants this time, it’s very encouraging. We appreciate everyone that has contributed to the success of this program and also those who have taken up supporting us like Promasidor as a major CSR for them. We say a very big thank and encourage you to not give up on us.”

Relating some of the achievements of the OIPA, Medale said some of the students have been adopted into the Cowbell Football Academy under the tutelage of the sport analyst Godwin Dudu-Orumen.

Levi Strauss & Co. Names Harmit Singh as Chief Financial Officer

Levi Strauss & Co. yesterday announced that Harmit Singh will join the company as executive vice president and chief financial officer on January 16, 2013, reporting to company president and chief executive officer Chip Bergh.

In a release sent to BrandArena, Singh will be responsible for the company’s global information technology and finance functions, including financial planning and analysis, accounting and controls, tax, treasury, risk management, internal audit and investor relations.

Mr. Singh brings almost 30 years of experience as a financial leader within the hospitality, restaurant and travel industries.  Most recently, Singh was chief financial officer of Hyatt Hotels Corporation, where he successfully led the financial planning and operations for an organization with about 500 hotels across 45 countries.

During his time at Hyatt, he played an important role in establishing the global financial structure, led the company through the IPO process, built a strong balance sheet and drove growth by supporting capital deployment for acquisitions and investments.

Upon his arrival, Kevin Wilson, who has served as interim chief financial officer since August 2012, will resume his role as vice president, finance for the Americas Commercial Operations.

Diamond Bank becomes Nigeria’s first bank to Implement Instant Account Opening

Diamond Bank Plc, has announced that as part of the initiatives to provide better customer service and expedite customer facing processes, it has successfully implemented BPM (Business Process Management solution) from Newgen Software Technologies.

This implementation has enabled the bank in end-to-end automation of the Account Opening and Account Management processes, which in turn would enable to provide improved customer service within shortest possible TAT (turnaround time).

Mrs. Caroline Anyanwu, Executive Director, Risk Management of Diamond Bank Plc; Vivek Bhatnagar, AVP & Business Head EMEA of Newgen Software Technologies Limited; Dr. Alex Otti, GMD/CEO, Abdulrahman Yinusa Executive Director/ Chie Financial Officer, both of Diamond of Diamond Bank and Bindesh Pandey, Business Development Manager of Newgen Software Technologies Limited at a press conference on Diamond Integrated Solutions (DIS) in Lagos yesterday.

On this occasion the bank also launched its latest innovation whereby the bank’s sales staff would be able to open accounts instantly, using their Tablets. Diamond Bank becomes the first ever bank in Nigeria to provide this service.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr.Alex Otti, Group Managing Director, Diamond Bank said, “This initiative further substantiates our position as a leader in retail banking. The implementation of Tablet based Account Opening reinforces Diamond Bank’s position as a innovator and a technology driven bank.”

Head IT & Operators of Diamond Bank, Mr. Premier Oiwoh added “We chose Newgen based on its proven track record in the BPM space and its focus on African market. Based on our deliberation with various solution providers, we felt Newgen products and implementation pedigree met our needs perfectly,” he added.

Speaking on the significance of this implementation, Mr. Vivek Bhatnagar (Vice President Newgen Software) said, “We are happy to partner with Diamond Bank, in its quest for transformation and achieving operational excellence. Newgen’s BPM offerings will help the bank to centralize the back-office processes, in a seamlessly automated environment.”

Mr. Bhatnagar also said that the implementation was delivered jointly by Newgen and its local partner FASYL Nigeria. He added that “we, at Newgen, put strong emphasis on utilization of local resources in implementation and post implementation support phase.”

First Set of Winners Emerge in Guinness 'Fly With The Eagles' Promo

Dreams are being translated into reality, as Guinness Foreign Extra Stout of Guinness Nigeria, the nation’s foremost brewing company, has kicked started the Guinness ‘Fly With The Eagles’ raffle draw promo towards the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa with the release of its first batch of winners in various categories of authentic Super Eagles jerseys, one hundred thousand naira and an all-expense paid trip to watch the Super Eagles live in South Africa.

The ongoing daily raffle draw, which is the first of seventy draws over the next 70 days in the Guinness ‘Fly With The Eagles’ campaign has produced ten (10) winners of authentic Nigerian Eagles Jerseys, four (4) winners of one hundred thousand naira each and two winners of an all-expense paid trip to watch the Super Eagles matches live in South Africa.

L-R: Senior Brand Manager Guinness Nigeria, Uche Onwudiwe; Price Water House Cooper (PWC) Independent Auditor, Tunde Ayeni and Assistant Director (Co-ordinator Lagos), National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Obi Iregbu, during the raffle draw of ‘Guinness Fly With The Eagles’ Promo, Day 1, recently.

Speaking at the closed studio session of the ‘Fly With The Eagles’ raffle draw, Marketing Manager for Guinness, Mr. Obinna Anyalebechi commented on the promo and reiterated the brand’s position as the number one fan and supporter of the Super Eagles.

“The Guinness Fly with The Eagles’ Promo is aimed at rewarding our loyal consumers while galvanizing the fans’ support for the Nigerian football team, The Super Eagles as they prepare for the Cup of African Nations tournament in South in 2013.

The raffle draws session which is hosted by popular radio presenter, ‘Yaw’ had series of rigorous and authentic selection processes using verification software to help validate the winners based on their text message entries. The winners that emerged in this edition were prompted to claim their winnings from the nearest Guinness Nigeria office.

This draw was authenticated by PWC a foremost independent auditing firm, represented by Tunde Ayeni, the National Lottery Regulatory Commission Co-ordinator for Lagos, Mr. Obi Iregbu, and representatives from the Consumer Protection Council.

The winners that emerged in the authentic Jersey category were; Jamiyu from Lagos; Dawodu omotayo from Ogun, Kafaya from Lagos, Fabian from Enugu, Power E. From Rivers; Olufemi Joshua from Ekiti; Innocent from Abia; Ade from Lagos and Emma from Lagos.

While those in the N100,000.00 category were; Kingsley from Rivers, Okon from Rivers, Queeneth from Rivers and Anu from Lagos.

And for the all expense paid trip to South Africa, Valentine from Rivers State emerged as one of the two winners for the day. Each winner is entitled to travel with one person; all expense paid.

The “Fly with the Eagles” campaign will run from November 22, 2012 to January 31, 2012. To participate, consumers should continue to enjoy their Guinness Stout, check under their crown cork text your Unique code, Name and Location or State to 1759. The promotion is open to only persons above the age of 18. Consumers are advised to drink Responsibly.

Google Launches Maps Apps for iPhone

Google has announced the launch of Maps apps on iPhone - rolling out across the world in the Apple App Store. It is designed from the ground up to combine the comprehensiveness and accuracy of Google Maps with an interface that makes finding what you’re looking for faster and easier.

The app shows more map on screen and turns mobile mapping into one intuitive experience. It’s a sharper looking, vector-based map that loads quickly and provides smooth tilting and rotating of 2D and 3D views.

The search box at the top is a good place to start—perhaps by entering the name of a new and interesting restaurant. An expandable info sheet at the bottom shows the address, opening hours, ratings and reviews, images, directions and other information.

At the heart of this app is our constantly improving map of the world that includes detailed information for more than 80 million businesses and points of interest.

MTN to Introduce Cloud services pilot project in Nigeria, other key African markets

Following the debut of a pilot project for its Cloud bouquet of services in South Africa, telecom giant, MTN has revealed plans to introduce the service in six of its key markets in the continent.

The service mark the first mobile network operator in Africa to adopt the Cloud Service Brokerage model.

A recent innovation in the IT space, cloud computing is the delivery of hosted services over the Internet. It enables the delivery of communication services, remotely enabling users to access services virtually anywhere, at any time.

According to the Executive for Enterprise Business at MTN Group, Farhad Khan, in a statement issued by MTN Group Corporate Affairs, the pilot project will be carried out in six of MTN’s key markets in Africa. These are Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda and South Africa. MTN Business has identified a number of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in these markets to trial its cloud services and product. MTN Cloud will be targeted at SMEs in Africa to assist customers to reduce the cost of doing business by offering bespoke ICT solutions.

Khan says the world of business is changing, and so should the way enterprises operate. “A particular challenge facing small and medium-sized businesses in Africa is the high cost of IT software and hardware. This includes the licence fees. What MTN Cloud services seek to do is enable SMEs to minimise these costs, and at the same time improve productivity and efficiency.”

The Cloud Service Brokerage model centralises access to services, where a third party, in this case MTN, acts as the single point of contact for customers. This eases the administrative burden for companies, where instead of dealing with multiple service providers, they now deal with one.

TFC wins West Africa Tourism And Hospitality Awards

Nigerian owned Quick Service Restaurant, Tastee Fried Chicken (TFC) has emerged winner of the Best Quick Service Restaurant category at the recently held 2012 West Africa Tourism and Hospitality Awards (WATHA).

In a release by the QSR brand, Executive Director, Olubunmi Adedayo, attributed the company’s achievement to its consistency in product quality, dedication and brand loyalty by its esteemed customers.

De Tastee Fried Chicken Nigeria Limited is a restaurant founded 1996 in Sululere Lagos but it was incorporated as a Limited Liability company on the 2nd of June 1997 under the Company and Allied Matters Decree. It has since become one of the foremost quick service restaurants in the country.

WATHA Awards is an annually exercises that is established to promote real superior services in the region; recognize top industry organizations which have shown skill, creativity, ingenuity and success in West Africa's growing Tourism & Hospitality industry.

Lagos to host Social Media Week

Africa's business hub, Lagos is to host Social Media Week, a worldwide event exploring the social, cultural and economic impact of social media, next year. The event will be the first in an African country. The Lagos edition will consist of 10 events from 18-22 February, 2013.

Topics ranging from mobile app development for agricultural communities to the prevalence and importance of social media in the government sector will be discussed during the event.

With internet based technology and social media rapidly becoming part of the cultural landscape across the continent, Social Media Week Lagos looks forward to the invaluable opportunity to examine the unique economic, social, and cultural impact of social media for Africa.

Social Media Week Lagos is produced by Dragon Africa and AFRIKA21.

Other host cities for the February event include Copenhagen, Doha, Hamburg, Miami, Milan, New York, Paris, Singapore, Tokyo, and Washington DC. In 2012 more than 66,000 people attended Social Media Week in twenty-six countries around the world.

Since November 8th, individuals and organizations interested in hosting their own events, talks, panel sessions, workshops, networking events and mixers have been submitting their proposed idea online. You can get involved by submitting their idea here: http://socialmediaweek.org/submit-event

Deadline for submissions is January 11, 2013.  For more information contact email: lagos@socialmediaweek.org visit www.socialmediaweek.org/lagos/ or follow SMWLagos on Twitter (@smwlagos) or Facebook (facebook.com/smwlagos).

Dutch coaches to train Cowbell Football Academy managers, players

A team of five Dutch youth coaches and their managers are billed to hit Lagos this weekend for an eight-day training programme for Cowbell Football Academy coaches and footballers under the initiative of Free-kicks.

Cowbell Football Academy

Participants will also be drawn from academies such BRF Academy, Team Pepsi and Team Academy Proprietors will make up the balance of 340 players.

Free-kicks is a youth and social engineering initiative on the platform of football by Godwin Dudu-Orumen, lawyer/journalist and a most engaging sports enthusiast.

According to Dudu-Orumen, the coaches will train about 60 local youth coaches and 400 players with about 160 of the latter drawn from the Cowbell Football Academy, promoted by Promasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of Cowbell Milk.
BRF Academy, Team Pepsi and Team Academy Proprietors will make up the balance of 340 players.

Free-kicks will take children off the streets, provide them with direction, pull opportunities together for them, provide the right balance between football and academics for talents, gainfully engage as many children nation-wide year in year out targeting ten thousand participants and beneficiaries in the first three years.

Free-kicks will grow the game in Nigeria in association with the Lagos State Football Association and SOYA, a Holland based NGO committed to youth football development in Nigeria and driven by Mr. Sylvester Okonkwo, a member of the board of Free-kicks.

Legend Real Deal Nite Activation Ends in Grand Style

The most anticipated edition of the highly entertaining Legend ‘Real Deal Nite’, which also happened to be the last in the series of the event for 2012, came to an electrifying end recently at the Ojez Bar, National Stadium Surulere, Lagos. The exciting brand activation was indeed a grand event as thousands of revelers thronged the venue to be part of this epoch making event.

The ambience at the event was euphoric as rave making music act, Ayo Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid who sealed the show sent the audience into a wild frenzy when he stepped on stage. Wizkid, the multiple awards winning artiste got the audience asking for more as he performed one hit track after another.

Sticking to its tradition of always rewarding consumers, the ‘Real Deal Nite’ saw several consumers, cart home wonderful prizes ranging from free trays of Legend extra stout, Blackberry mobile devices, Generating sets, Flat screen TVs and much more via a raffle draw.

A lucky winner at the event, Mr. Oduola Oluwashina, who came all the way from Ibadan to witness the event, won a brand new 32” flat screen TV set. He described the event as mind blowing. “To be honest with you, Legend stout is my favorite drink. I have stuck to the brand for years because of its rich and smooth taste. I’m so happy to win this TV set. It is indeed a big reward for me considering my love for the brand”. He said.

John Nwakenna, a businessman in Lagos, who happened to stumble at the event by chance, went home with a brand new generating set. An indigene of Anambra, Nwakenna said, “I did not know there was going to be an event here, I just came around with my fiancée to have fun. When I realized Legend was having an event here, I decided to stay back because I’m a big fan of Legend extra stout. It is my favourite stout.  I never imagined that I would win something this big. I’m so glad to be part of this event.”

Subsequently, the brand decided to take the event beyond Lagos state, its original base where it held every last Friday of the month, to other parts of the country based on the yearnings of consumers. Entertainers such as J. Martins, Flavour Nabania, Terry G, Mike Okri, Ras Kimono, Basketmouth, Seyi Law, Jovi, Wizkid, Duncan Mighty and much more have graced the ‘Real Deal Nite’ stage.

Sony’s Unveils Cyber-shot Pocket-Sized Camera

Sony, the leading consumer electronics brand has unveiled the Cyber-shot RX100, featuring a host of powerful features packaged into sleek, compact aluminium body. Sleekly crafted in aluminium for strength, lightness and luxurious looks, the RX100 inherits many advanced imaging features from Sony’s Alpha ‘α’ range of A-mount and E-mount camera families.

Sony RX100

An accomplished partner for travel, portrait or street photography, with impressive picture quality and intuitive, comfortable control options, the RX100 is ideal as a step-up from point-and-shoot cameras.

This camera features the world’s first 1.0-type EXMOR CMOS sensor with a resolution of 20.2 effective megapixels and a bright F1.8 lens making it the perfect fit for a compact, pocket-sized second camera for enthusiasts who want to capture pristine stills with refined defocus effect and Full HD video while they are on the move.

Specially developed by Sony, the sensor has an area that is around four times larger than the 1/2.3-type imager in regular point-and-shoot cameras. Capturing far more light than small-sensor cameras, it is the key to beautiful, detail packed images and Full HD movie clips with very low noise.

Similar to high-performance D-SLR optics, the lens features seven-bladed circular apertures. This makes it easy to produce pro-style ‘defocus’ effects, with subjects in sharp focus against a smoothly-blurred background. The lens is also equipped with an Advanced Aspherical (AA) glass element that contributes to the camera’s extremely compact dimensions without sacrificing optical performance or resolution.

Pepsi Signs Beyoncé as Global Ambassador

Beyoncé on Pepsi’s  can

Pepsi has announced a true creative and wide-ranging global collaboration with worldwide music icon, Beyoncé. Together they will collaborate in developing new content and innovative ways to engage fans, consumers and retailers to benefit both brands.

Pepsi has had a relationship with Beyoncé for more than a decade – she first served as a Pepsi spokesperson in 2002. Since then, she has become a global pop culture phenomenon – arguably one of the biggest pop stars in the world - winning 16 GRAMMY awards and selling more than 100 million albums worldwide.

The company said in a released statement: "Beyond the partnership with Beyoncé, we are using our global scale and scope to create a platform to support multiple country-specific Pepsi musical artists. With our music program, we can excite our existing fans and attract new consumers to Pepsi, connecting their love of music with the refreshing experience of drinking Pepsi, driving sales of Pepsi globally".

The music diva starring in a new “Live for Now” global TV commercial, currently planned for release in early 2013. She will be appearing in print and out of home advertisements for Pepsi.  She will also be visible in-store and on-premise through materials such as shelf promotions, in-store displays and in-store advertising.

The multi-faceted collaboration with Beyoncé includes: establishing the Creative Development Fund, a resource devoted to the co-creation of innovative and relevant consumer content and collaboration on design – in addition to having her image on a can or bottle, she is working with us on the design of all materials related to the partnership.

The Beyoncé partnership is the lead example of how Pepsi is pioneering a new way for brands to engage with musical artists, moving from sponsor to partner.  This creates a creative and commercial collaboration that serves both artist and brand.

Diamond Bank support Lagos Black Heritage Festival

Diamond Bank has expressed its willingness to partner with the Lagos Black Heritage Festival because it will afford it the opportunity to collaborate with the Lagos State Government to celebrate children in a bid to project the nation’s cultural heritage to the world.

Mr. Uzoma Dozie, Executive Director, Corporate Banking and Lagos/West Businesses disclosed this in Lagos on Thursday at a press conference to declare open registration for the 2013 edition of the festival.

L-R: Mr. Femi Segun, representative of Black Heritage Festival; Ms. Ayona Trimnell, Head of Corporate Communication and Mr. Uzoma Dozie, ED, Corporate Banking and Lagos/West Businesses  both of Diamond Bank Plc at a press conference on Lagos Black Festival vision of a Child 2013 Painting Competition in Lagos on Thursday

He said, “We are especially proud to be sponsors of the Vision of the Child as the   painting competition creates an avenue for the kids to display their passion for the arts thus engaging their youthful energy in a creative endeavour,” remarking that ‘passion’ happens to one of the core values of the bank and this it channels into service delivery.

Mr. Femi Segun, a representative of the Lagos Black Heritage Festival said the 2013 painting contest intends to build on the success of the 2012 edition and is exclusively sponsored by Diamond Bank Plc.

In the same vein Mrs. Ayona Trimnell, Head of Corporate Communications of Diamond Bank said they would continue to support the vision of the festival.

The 2013 Lagos Black Heritage Festival is being organised in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Education. The competition is open to primary and secondary (public and private) schools in Lagos State. The festival talent scouts have also been empowered to enter potential non-schooling talent for the event.

Registration opens from 6th December, 2012 and closes on 25th January, 2013. Screening of candidates will begin on 8th February 2013. Registration forms can be obtained at any Diamond Bank branch within Lagos for N500 each.

Smirnoff to kick off 3D Disco in Lagos

Premium drink, Smirnoff is presenting an incredible series of party events including the 3D disco – a fusion of music, art and video and Illuminato – a party themed on ultra violet, neon, light and dark in Nigeria.

Smirnoff Vodka and Smirnoff Ice will be giving party-goers the chance to see nightlife in a completely different way at the Smirnoff 3D Disco which kicks off in Lagos on Friday, 14th December.

Smirnoff will then be lighting up the lives of party lovers in Lagos and Abuja in March, with Illuminato, two spectacular neon, light-themed parties.

According to the company, the Smirnoff brand is all about connecting with people whether through great gatherings or through social media platforms.

Smirnoff  recently launched a new social media initiative in an effort to connect with its fans to make sure it continues to give fans what they enjoy the most.  Smirnoff Party Central is an interactive page on Facebook for fans to engage with their favourite vodka.

For your chance to be in the know, keep up to date with all the latest party news, send in your party tips and questions, win prizes and ‘Be There’ at the best parties, make sure you ‘like’ the Smirnoff Nigeria Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Smirnoffnigeria and follow Smirnoff on twitter (@SmirnoffNg).

Harp Lager Ignites Consumers, Promotes Responsible Drinking at Eko 2012

Harp Lager, a Guinness Nigeria brand and the official alcoholic beverage for the 18th National Sports festival themed EKO 2012, is championing the cause for responsible drinking as fans celebrate with their teams during the festival. The brand is running a number of activities during the festival to create awareness and educate consumers about the benefits of responsible drinking.

Dare Art Alade signing Harp Lager’s ‘Drink Responsibly’ board

At the opening ceremony for the Sports festival, artistes and key government dignitaries such as ace musician, Dare Art Alade, former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, Honourable Kayode Opeifa, the Commisioner for Transport in Lagos State and other personalities signed the ‘Drink Responsibly’ boards to show their support for the campaign. 

According to Mr. Austin Ufomba, the Marketing Director, Guinness Nigeria, the company through its brand has always played a leading role in promoting responsible drinking and safe driving. “To facilitate and promote responsible drinking, Guinness Nigeria Plc has three principles in its approach namely: combating alcohol misuse, setting standards for responsible marketing and innovation, and promoting a shared understanding of what responsible drinking means in order to reduce alcohol-related harm. “ 

“While Harp is associated with enjoyment and celebration, we must also promote the benefits of responsible drinking, particularly during the EKO 2012 festival and the holiday season in general. At Guinness Nigeria, we do not support irresponsible alcohol consumption, and always ensure that our promotions, promotional packaging and events do not encourage or support such activity,” Mr. Ufomba added.

Throughout the sporting festival, sports lovers and customers will have the opportunity to sign the ‘Drink Responsibly’ boards at all the sporting venues and various Fan Parks within Lagos. Other elements of the awareness drive include information cards, restriction of people underage drinking at the entertainment areas and provision of free water to ensure consumers remain refreshed.

The ‘Drink Responsibly’ boards are positioned at Harp’s Fan Parks located within the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere; Freedom Park, Lagos Island and the Agege Stadium, Agege.

The 55th 'Grammy Awards' Nominees Announced

Nominations for the 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards were announced last night by The Recording Academy and reflected an eclectic mix of the best and brightest in music over the past year, as determined by the voting members of The Academy.

Dan Auerbach (The Black Keys), FUN., Jay-Z, Mumford & Sons, Frank Ocean, and Kanye West top the nominations with six each; The Black Keys, Chick Corea, and Miguel each garner five nods; and producer Jeff Bhasker, mastering engineer Bob Ludwig and Nas are each up for four awards.

"The GRAMMY Awards process once again has produced a diverse and impressive list of nominations across multiple genres," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy.

"This year's nominees truly represent an exceptional and vibrant creative community that exemplifies some of the highest levels of artistry and excellence in their respective fields. Combined with the fifth year of our primetime nominations special."

The 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards will be held on "GRAMMY Sunday," Feb. 10, 2013, at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. This year's Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical nominations go to Dan Auerbach, Jeff Bhasker, Diplo, Markus Dravs, and Salaam Remi.

M&C Saatchi poaches TBWA’s De Kock for Africa

M&C Saatchi has appointed Rick de Kock to lead its charge into Africa. He will join in January after six years at TBWA\Africa, where he was director of African operations.

“Having spent time in more than 20 African countries, I am an Afro-optimist who believes that Africa’s time arrived a while ago and that it has just taken the world a while to wake up to the fact,” says de Kock.

Mike Abel, chief executive partner at M&CSaatchi Abel, says: “We believe Rick is an exceptional person to lead our foray into Africa. He is immensely experienced in the region and has a highly successful track record.”

De Kock says of African business prospects: “We are experiencing the third wave of investment in Africa as more and more global FMCG companies enter the market to engage with the 1bn people that live here. What excites me even more than that is the growing role of regional brands in West and East Africa and the opportunities that these brands offer to us as communication specialists.

“The rise of the African middle class combined with their growing spending power, the role of technology in connecting the people of Africa like never before and the downturn in the traditional markets of Europe and America mean that Africa is at the centre of a perfect storm of investment. Global brands clearly see the African opportunity. They need communication partners who understand the continent and its people.”

Source: adfocus.co.za

UN Kicks off Global Youth Forum, Introduces mPowering Mobile Platform

Yesterday, 2,000 young people representing over 126 nations joined forces with global artists, nonprofits, corporate and government leaders, to debut the mPowering Mobile Platform, a first-ever,entertainment-driven program empowering youth with information and access to education, job and health resources, delivered directly through their mobile phones.

The announcement was made at the start of the ICPD Global Youth Forum where thousands of youth will participate in person, online and through social media to influence the UN agenda on health and reproductive rights, education, employment and civic participation.

Timbaland, the platforms first-ever Producer-In-Residence, Avicii, and Agnes Monica (a.k.a., AGNEZ MO), will be on-site to support the conference and perform on December 6th to close the 3-day event.

Young people, who constitute 43% of the world’s population of 7 billion and growing, (in some countries, such as Brazil, Nigeria and Tanzania, the number is as high as 60%) face the greatest challenge in a fast changing word.  Yet they can be an innovative source of solutions to these challenges—if engaged and motivated.

The mPowering Mobile Platform recognizes this potential by harnessing the power of music to captivate and inspire today’s young people to take action alongside organizations that specifically work to improve global issues.

“Today’s young people are not only the leaders of our future, they are our leaders today,” said Kwabena Osei-Danquah, Executive Coordinator for ICPD Beyond 2014. “Our world nurtures so many talented, creative, educated people. We have never been so well equipped and interconnected to respond to global challenges. We are truly part of a global community, where actions taken in one country or region can have an immediate impact on other parts of the world.”

The mPoweringMobile Platform will be officially launchedon February 8th, 2013 during Grammy Week in Los Angeles. For more information visitwww.facebook.com/mPoweringActionand@mPoweringAction on Twitter.