Airtel Rising Stars 5 Regional Championship Begins

The regional championships of the fifth edition of Airtel Rising Stars (ARS) U-17 football tournament kicked off today following the successful registration of boys and girls who participated in the open camp preliminary screening exercise.

The tournament, a unique initiative of leading telecommunications service provider, Airtel Nigeria, has been providing support for the development of football talents across Nigeria since 2011. It is aimed at discovering talented youths (male and female) of secondary school age and providing them with the opportunity to gain football skills and develop into renowned stars

The Regional Championships for the North which commenced today 30th July at the Old Parade Ground, Abuja will span till 1st August, 2015, while the South Championships will be held at Liberation Stadium in Port Harcourt between the 6th and 8th of August. Thereafter, Lagos will host the last leg of regional championship at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, between the 14th and 16th of August.

The three cities will serve as regional centres for a total of 14 states. Abuja region will feature players from the FCT, Kaduna, Kano and Sokoto while Lagos region will have participants from Ogun, Oyo, Lagos, Ondo and Edo States. Port Harcourt region will play host to teams from Imo, Rivers, Enugu, Akwa-Ibom and Anambra states.

Africa50 raises USD 830 million for infrastructure in Africa

Africa50, the new and innovative infrastructure investment platform promoted by the African Development Bank held its Constitutive General Assembly on the 29th of July 2015 in Casablanca, Morocco. Twenty (20) African countries and the African Development Bank have subscribed for an initial aggregate amount of USD 830 million in share capital.

These founding African countries are Benin, Cameroon, Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Nigeria, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, The Gambia and Togo.

While this first closing was available only to African countries, it is anticipated that the second and subsequent closings will be available not only to African countries that are yet to invest in Africa50, but also non-sovereign investors both in Africa and outside Africa. The second closing is expected before the end of 2015.

Speaking at this historic event, Dr. Donald Kaberuka, President of African Development Bank and current Chairman of the Boards of Directors of Africa50, said "the large presence of African States and their financial commitments are a testimony to a shared vision to find new ways to accelerate the provision of infrastructure. Africa50 will be a step change for infrastructure financing and development in Africa".

Pictures from the Initiative for Sustaining Family Unity Seminar

(L-R) Welfare Officer, Street Child Care Welfare Initiative, Shittu Folake, Programme Officer, Initiative for Sustaining Family Unity (IforSFU), Olasunkanmi Babatunde, Psychologist, Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital, Coker Olugbenga and the Key Note Speaker Bamigbaye-Elatuyi Omotola at the seminar on parental commitment to ending child marriage and enabling girl child to fulfill their potential organized by Initiative for Sustaining Family Unity in Lagos on Thursday.

(L-R) Key Note Speaker Bamigbaye-Elatuyi Omotola, Programme Officer, Initiative for Sustaining Family Unity (IforSFU)  and the Psychologist, Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital, Coker Olugbenga   at the seminar on parental commitment to ending child marriage and enabling girl child to fulfill their potential organized by Initiative for Sustaining Family Unity in Lagos on Thursday.

Mediaviews MD, Adedoyin Becomes OAAN New President

Managing Director of Media View Limited, Mr Babatunde Idowu Adedoyin has been elected by members of the Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria, OAAN as their new president.

Mr Adedoyin emerged as president after election contest with Mr. Ladi Sole of Uniksites Nigeria Limited during the 30th Annual General Meeting of the association at Golden Tulip Amuwo Odofin on Thursday.

Other new executive of the Association include Mr. Emma Ajufo as the Vice President, Femi Ogala, General Secretary,  Atilola Williams, Treasurer, Obi Nnaobi, Publicity Secretary, and Mr. Tunde Oyekan as the Assistant General Secretary. The Ex Officio members are: Modupe Lawuyi, Bidwell Okere, and Churchill Nwagwu.

Adedoyin attended both St Benedict’s Catholic School and St Paul Comprehensive School, Igbore, Abeokuta. Immediately after he finished secondary school education, he took a job at the Corporate head office of Barclays Bank in Marina, Lagos.

He furthered his education at Middlesex Polytechnic in the United Kingdom, where he read Marketing. Mr. Adedoyin had his national Youth Service at Berec in Isolo between 1982 and 1983.


Image credit: thenewsnigeria.com.ng

8 Apps To Help Navigate Traffic In Lagos City

In Lagos, commuting presents untold experiences, with drivers harassed by conditions beyond their control, but traffic remains the biggest challenge. While sitting in traffic in the city may seem like a necessary evil, several app developers have found ways to make navigating the Nigerian roads less agonizing.

Making your way through the streets of Lagos has never been easier thanks to these navigational apps which provide detailed street maps transit information and  provide interesting data on commuting.
If you are stuck in a gridlock or looking for easy ways to get past a roadblock, we’ve got you covered. Here, Jovago.com, Africa’s no.1 online hotel booking portal has rounded up 8 apps that will help you get to your destination faster.

Gidi traffic
Available on Android and Microsoft
Gidi traffic is a community-based traffic and navigation app that lets you share real-time transit information in Lagos. It alerts you before you approach police, accidents, road hazards or traffic jams and lets you scout the city for jobs, stores, labor, people and places. You can also make inquiries about anything and get replies instantly, as well as share traffic reports with your friends on the numerous Social Networks you are on.

JonnyWaka 316
Available on Android
A mobile app designed to improve road user experience, safe and efficient road management as well as reduction of road hazards, JonnyWaka316 gives users the opportunity to help the administrators upload traffic incidents like accidents, flood and armed robberies for everyone to see and the incidents are then marked on the road, route, and map showing the precise locations. The app assists authorities like Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corp, FRSC and the Nigerian police to monitor and report traffic situations, track road crimes and armed robberies.

Economy hotels: The rising demand, the trends and the challenges

As the global tourism landscape continues to change, so does the hospitality industry. The rising number of middle-class travellers, business travellers and travelling families has led to a boom in the number of economy hotels, also known as select service hotels.

In this article, Wouter Brand, Aurecon Buildings Project Director in the Middle East; Jeff Robinson, Aurecon Development Leader: Property; and Stephen Olckers, Aurecon Head of Building Services (Cape Town) & Hotel Business Development in Africa, expand on the current demand for economy hotels in the hospitality industry.

Dubai

They discuss how economy hotels differ from luxury hotels, both in terms of design and functionalities, the driving forces behind the rising demand for these establishments and how hotel brands can ready themselves to cater for a multicultural (and multi-aged) clientele that is part and parcel of this trend.

Can you define what an economy hotel/select service hotel is? How do these differ from conventional hotels?

Wouter: In the Middle East, an economy hotel doesn’t necessarily represent what it would mean in other parts of the world. Luxury hotels and resorts are abundant in the Middle East, so a select service or economy hotel in the Middle East could be a four star hotel or a family hotel, which would still be considered a luxury establishment elsewhere.

Traditionally, the Middle East is considered to be a luxury travel destination for affluent travellers, but the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has encouraged the development of more economy and select services hotels, which will mean more four star and three star hotels in the region. Some of the proposed four star hotels will be quite large, with more than 400 guest rooms.

Oando Opens New Station in Kaduna

Oando Marketing Plc has inaugurated a recently upgraded service station in Kaduna State as part of the company’s commitment to enhance customers’ experience.

According to a statement from the company, this is in line with the goal of delighting its customers by providing excellent service experience.

The statement added that the station had been equipped with modern autocare centre, state-of-the-art fuel pumps with an all-round professional car care.

Speaking at the event, the Regional Manager, North Central, Oando Marketing Plc, Kehinde Babarinsa, said the latest move was in line with the company’s desire to equip its service stations with state-of-the-art equipment and advanced technologies to meet the dynamic needs of today’s customers.

Tanzanian Government Confers Huawei with The Outstanding Leadership and Contribution Award

Tanzania’s leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider (Huawei) has been conferred with the outstanding ICT leadership and contribution award during a 2 day summit dubbed (C2C) connect to connect.

The summit which kick started today at Ramada hotel, Dar Es Salaam brings together ICT practitioners, policy makers, investors and solution providers to deliberate on how to drive country to country broadband connectivity across Africa, from Coast to coast and innovations that will propel Tanzania’s economy and facilitate public service excellence.

Huawei representative received the award from Ms. Selina Lyimo, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communication, Science, and Technology of Tanzania

Huawei received the award from the Ministry of Communication, Science and technology following its active participation in the ICT industry and leader position in doing research and great contribution in the evolution of broadband connectivity in Tanzania.

Speaking during the summit, Huawei’s Senior Solutions consultant Eastern and Southern Africa Dr. Bello Moussa said ”The countries of Eastern and Southern Africa have shown great enthusiasm in investing and innovating within the broadband ecosystem over the past few years. These countries are of course at different stages of ICT development but unfortunately, 90% of the population of the region can still not access broadband at home so therefore we are currently far behind more advanced markets.

The summit also saw Huawei present its new LTE network titled “Huawei’s leading road to 5G network. During the presentation, Huawei showed strategic thinking on continuous developing path from 3G to 4G/4.5G and 5G.

2015 Microsoft Imagine Cup: Optimism after live presentation by Team LifeWatch

Microsoft Imagine Cup has been dubbed as the world’s premier technology competition that provides opportunities for students across all disciplines to team up and use their creativity, passion, and knowledge of technology to create applications, games and integrated solutions that can change the way we live, work and play.

Although health and gaming solutions topped inventions on showcase at the ongoing Microsoft Imagine Cup in Seattle, Washington, there are positive signals that Team LifeWatch would advance to the next phase of the competition, having taken their turn in presenting their solution to the panel of judges.

During Team LifeWatch’s presentation earlier, there were convincing evidence to show the team’s likelihood of advancing to the next stage of the competition. The team is comprised of four students from the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD); Adeyemo Oluwaseun, Kevin Ahwin, Sobola David and Raymond Obinaju, who are currently flying the Nigerian flag in the competition and who are poised to advance to the next phase of the competition.

Speaking after their presentation, Communications Lead, Microsoft Nigeria, Yemi Orimolade noted with optimism that the team’s session was apt, informative, educative, and of course mind blowing. In his words “I think their solution is definitely a contender for the converted title”.

Zuriel Oduwole Makes First Hollywood Directing Debut

She is the youngest person in the world to be featured in Forbes Magazine at age 10 in 2013, the youngest person in the world to meet and interview more than 15 World leaders [Presidents & Prime  Ministers], the youngest person in the world to be featured in ELLE Magazines Global 33 Women's List, the youngest person in the world to self produce and show their Film in commercial cinema chains.

She is the only African to make Business Insiders Global Powerful 100 list, the youngest person in the world to address more than 23,000 children in 9 countries on Education issues, the youngest business and feature guest on global networks CNBC, CNN African Voices, BBC Africa and Bloomberg TV, and now comes her newest new accolade.

Zuriel has just made her film Directing debut in Hollywood, calling the shots for a new project made on the Disney Studios in California and due out before the end of 2015 [see attached]. At 12 years old and a Nigerian, she is re-defining Hollywood, and in effect - Nollywood. 

She then went on to direct a new Girls Confidence documentary for Procter & Gamble's Always brand in New York a few days ago, and spoke also at the new #LikeAGirl Global Conference in New York, where the documentary debuted.

VIDEO: www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBxG08yr4uI

With Africans like Zuriel, the continent - truly Rises !!!!

Africa 2020 presents exciting opportunities for asset managers - PwC report

New research from PwC projects that traditional assets under management (AuM) in 12 markets across Africa will rise to around $1,098 billion by 2020, from a 2008 total of $293 billion. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 9.6%. Traditional asset management, in particular the mutual fund industry, is expanding aggressively across Africa.

This will largely be driven by a number of factors: economic growth and the subsequent rise in wealth will boost the demand for pensions and life insurance products, the demand for retail investment funds will consequently increase, and the widespread adoption of technology will make delivery of new products cheaper, bringing more consumers into the formal financial sector.

Ilse French, PwC Africa Asset Management Leader

The report, Africa Asset Management 2020, is an in-depth study which examines the asset management industry across 12 African countries which have financial markets of varying levels of development.  The countries, which represent a sample from Northern, Eastern, Western and Southern Africa, were assessed by a range of relevant indicators in order to capture their true investment potential.  The countries were categorised into three groups: advancing markets, promising markets, and nascent markets. In addition, the report outlines and analyses the future game changers for investment into Africa as a whole as well as addressing the impacts for these specific markets.

Ilse French, PwC Africa Asset Management Leader, says:  “As Africa has entered the 21st century, economic growth has surpassed expectations and stimulated investor interest across a broad range of asset classes. Although the fund industry in Africa is, in most countries, still developing and has much to prove, global and local asset managers are likely to become more active as the industry continues to flourish.”

Nokia Networks powers Vodafone's commercial cloud-based VoLTE launch in Italy

Vodafone Italy, one of the country's largest operators and a fully-owned subsidiary of the Vodafone Group plc, has selected Nokia Networks to introduce commercial Voice over LTE (VoLTE) services on its network. Under the 5-year contract, Nokia Networks will implement its multifunctional Telecommunications Application Server (TAS) in a virtual, cloud-based environment to improve service agility and optimize network resource utilization for Vodafone Italy.

VoLTE - a technology that ensures crystal-clear voice quality
As a next-generation technology, VoLTE delivers multiple benefits for operators and customers alike. These include high-definition (HD) voice quality, faster call set-up times with voice continuity, and optimized performance under load. The overall data consumption and signaling load is also lower compared to over-the-top voice applications.

Massimo Ortelli, Head of Vodafone South Customer Business Team, Nokia Networks, said: "This engagement further validates Vodafone Italy's faith in Nokia Networks' capabilities to evolve its service proposition in line with customer expectations. After having conducted New Zealand's first VoLTE call with Vodafone, we have now reached another important milestone by commercializing cloud-based VoLTE - a landmark that paves the path for crystal-clear, HD voice services to significantly boost the service experience for subscribers. Vodafone plans to use our VoLTE TAS cloud product to migrate its legacy fixed VoIP subscriber base."

 Nokia Networks currently has 30 commercial IMS and TAS deals for VoLTE, 8 of which are already in live service. For LTE subscriber management, Nokia Networks has more than 100 contracts.

OAAN Commissions Own House

On Thursday, 30 July, 2015 the Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria officially opened its own house located on Kofo Kasumu Avenue, Lakeview Phase 1 Estate, off Ago Palace Way, Amuwo Odofin.

The commissioning was part of the various activities, including election of new officials put together for the 30th Annual General Meeting of the association.

Inaugurating the twin-duplex edifice the Registrar, Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria, APCON  Alhaji Bello Kankarofi congratulated OAAN on the achievement.

The building was completed by the outgoing administration led by Mr. Charles Chijide. Chijide commend the foresight of all my predecessors: Chief Babu Akinbobola, High Chief Jas Kolawole Oyekan, Chief Ipoola Omisore; and Otunba Kole Ademulegun for "ensure that the dream to have our own House is realised".

Drone Club wins Tech 2015 Most Innovative Solution Award

The Drone Club has won the MTN/Mahindra Comviva Most Innovative Exhibitor Award at the just concluded Tech Conference and Exhibitions held at the prestigious Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos. The award was received by DJ Tee and James Amuta, whose companies are pioneer members of the Club.

The Drone Club, which represents an aggregation of several interests in drone flying which is also known in professional parlance either as the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), beat several other exhibitors to the award for the most outstanding innovative product on display at the two-day Expo.

Exhibitions covered products and services in various areas such as healthcare and wellbeing, automobile, entertainment, education, computing, Smart Homes, Wearables, Security, gaming, 3D Printing, and displays, among others.

Speaking on the award, a drone pilot and sole operator of the The Drone Guy company, James Amuta, said it came as a surprise given that the exhibitions was the first outing for the club. He attributed it to the efforts of the co-pilots who came together to form a strong team.

“We feel absolutely amazed. We are surprised that we actually won. The expo was awesome, but our own technology won. It is a collaborative effort, and it shows that the more people can collaborate, the better we can get. It shows that we are building a very strong team because this is our first outing as a Club and we came here and bagged this award. It is an emotional moment for most of us,” he said.

HURRAY! Brooks and Blake clocks five

To run a successful business requires much more than just doing it right but being consistent. Therefore, celebrating five years of building a solid marketing and perception management firm is a big deal.

Brooks and Blake, an Independent Perception Management and Consulting firm is rolling out the drum tonight at the Red Carpet Event Centre, Oniru Victorial Island with anniversary dinner to mark its 5 years of operation.

"We are deeply humbled by what we have been able to achieve during this period of constant learning and we look forward to and hope for many more opportunities to grow in service and offerings. To all our esteemed clients, suppliers, associates and friends, we couldn’t have done it without you…even if we’d tried, for this we acknowledge you all and say: “Your efforts we could never repay, you’ve made all the difference in every way, Thank you!”, part of a statement by the management of the agency reads.

As we continue to uphold our five codes of service; Partnership, Innovation, Continuous Improvement, Integrity and Focus, we will like to invite you be a part of our milestone celebration.

Some of the accounts currently managed by the firm include MTN, Guinness, GSK, Orijin, Lucozade, and Macleans.

E-commerce to Create 50,000 Jobs in 2017 - Evangeline Wiles

As e-commerce expands aggressively across Nigeria, the sector may help create over 50,000 jobs within the country in 2-3 years. This was stated by Managing Director of Kaymu.com.ng Evangeline Wiles in a recent release by the company.

As more and more retailers turn to e-commerce to acquire new customers and increase profit, the growing trends in online shopping in Nigeria means more opportunities for web designers, logistics personnel and affiliated services.

Evangeline Wiles 

“In the next couple of years, e-commerce is going to emerge as one of the top recruiters in the country with a large increase in the number of marketing and content roles”, Wiles predicted.

According to the Ministry of Communications Technology, the Nigerian e-commerce space has created over 12,000 jobs since 2012 expanding the infrastructure, warehousing, advertising and logistics service industry. This figure will continue to rise due to zealous and assailing expansions, merges and acquisitions.

With the sharp increase in retailers  falling over themselves to spruce up their web presence and the e-commerce services they offer, the potential of e-commerce as a tool for job creation is limitless.

Almost all e-commerce companies are using varied marketing platforms to promote their businesses both online and offline thus requiring competent professionals to fulfill their various job descriptions. This growth will ultimately have an impact on the employment rate in allied industries like advertising, production, logistics, and payments, amongst others.

Teens from Nigeria attend Global Copa Coca-Cola International Camp

The world’s largest brand-supported grassroots football initiative, Copa Coca-Cola is hosting over 100 footballing teens from around the world, including young players from Nigeria, for a six-day International Camp to forge friendships and gain valuable skills both on and off the pitch.

Taking place from 26thJuly – 31st July, the Camp in Berlin, Germany is the pinnacle of a season which has seen more than 1.3 million teens compete in over 60 countries.

Now in its 27th year, Copa Coca-Cola unites football-loving teens in every continent around the world, promoting an active lifestyle and encouraging values that are the foundation of life and sportsmanship.

Two skilled teenagers from Nigeria have been invited alongside young players from a total of 27 countries to attend this year’s Copa Coca-Cola International Camp, having competed through a series of regional rounds to participate in a national championship before being selected for the global tournament.

The teenagers representing Nigeria are Chidiebere Chibuzo Ibe and Peter Osaze Imafidon and are already in camp. Ibe, a product of the Kanu/Greenspring summer camp, is a gifted attacking midfielder who has participated in several local and international youth competitions including the popular Nottingham Youth Tournament. Imafidon who was discovered at the Shell/NNPC school competition, is a disciplined talent who has won laurels at national youth games and the recent summer vacation competition in the United Kingdom.

GOtv Boxing: Fijabi Bags N1m cash prize

Olaide Fijabi who recently emerged as the best boxer of the 3rd GOtv Boxing Night after beating Kazeem Ariyo in their light welterweight contest in the six-bout competition at the National Stadium in Lagos.

Fijabi, who was voted as the best boxer at the second edition of the competition earlier in the year, also went home with the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy recently.

From the first round, Fijabi, who was making his second professional outing, overwhelmed his opponent with deft combinations that left the huge crowd screaming his name. Ariyo, a decent boxer in his own right, however, found Fijabi too hot to handle.

The lightweight challenge bout between Nurudeen Fatai and Chibuzor Obi ended in the latter’s favour by unanimous decision. Sunday Ajuwa also defeated Femi Ajayi in an eight-round cruiser weight challenge.

Ecobank Nigeria announces board shakeup

The Board of Ecobank Nigeria has elected Mr. John Oche Aboh as its new Chairman. Mr. Aboh who was recently appointed to the Board as a Non-Executive Director, brings with him a wealth of Experience in Management in the Financial Services Industry, professionalism and integrity that has earned him global respect.

 Mr. Aboh has over 30 years work experience in the banking industry; working at senior management and Board levels in large Nigerian banks, such as Citibank, UBA, Wema Bank, First Bank of Nigeria and former Oceanic Bank International.  He holds a B.Sc in Finance from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, an MBA from the University of Jos and an AMP from the Harvard University, Boston Massachusetts.

Mr. Aboh replaces The Olor’ogun Sonny F. Kuku, OFR who recently retired from the Board after over 11 years, five of which was as Chairman. Olor’ogun Kuku is one of the founding members of the Ecobank Group.  Under his tenure as Chairman of the Board, the Bank made remarkable progress in growing its market share by rising from the number 13 industry position in 2010 to Number six in 2015.  He is leaving the Board on a solid footing as one of the leading banks in Nigeria.

Also Mallam Garba Imam has being appointed as a Non-Executive Director of the bank.  Mallam Imam has extensive banking experience having served in different capacities in several banks, including NAL Merchant Bank, Sterling Bank and Enterprise Bank. He is a Fellow, Chartered Institute of Management, UK. Fellow, Institute of Credit Administrators, Honorary Senior Member, Chartered Institute of Bankers, Member, Institute of Directors and a Member of Bank Directors Association of Nigeria.  Mallam Garba Imam holds a B.S.C(Hons) Degree in Sociology and also a Masters of Social Science from Brimingham University United Kingdom.

Entries Open for 7th Golden Pen Awards

The Nigerian Breweries Plc, organisers of the Golden Pen Award has announced entries for the 2015 edition, declaring the sum of N2.75 million in total prize for the seven categories.

In a media briefing held at the company’s office in Lagos, the company’s Corporate Affairs Adviser, Mr. Kufre Ekanem, revealed that the theme of education, youth empowerment and talent development, will also be adopted this year as was done during the last edition.

According Ekanem, submission of entries, begins on Tuesday, July 28, after the briefing and will close on Friday, September 21.

Speaking further, the Corporate Affairs Adviser detailed the categories of the award and the prizes to include, The Nigerian Breweries Golden Pen Reporter of the Year (N1m); first runner-up for the Nigerian Breweries Golden Pen Reporter of the Year (N300, 000.00) and second runner-up for the Nigerian Breweries Golden Pen Reporter of the Year (N200, 000.00).
Others according to him are, The Nigerian Breweries Report of the Year (N500, 000.00); The Nigerian Breweries Golden Pen Photojournalist of the Year (N300, 000.00); first runner-up for the Nigerian Breweries Photojournalist of the Year (N250, 000.00) and second runnerup for the Nigerian Breweries Photojournalist of the Year (N200, 000.00).

According to him, winners in the three major catergories will also receive special statuettes. Winners will be announced and awarded their prizes at the 7th Nigerian Breweries Golden Pen Award ceremony scheduled to hold on Friday, October 30.

CBN, SEC Unveil E-dividend portal

The end may be here to the issue of  unclaimed dividends payment, as the Securities and Exchange Commission in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria formally launched the E-dividend portal in Lagos.

Commenting on the portal, Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Mounir H. Gwarzo said bank officials as well as registrars had commenced trainings on the use of the E-dividend portal‎ which requires Web access, an investors account number, Bank Verification Number, CSCS number and Registration number.

It was said that the use of this portal will ensure that no investor would be charged for mandate validation, it will also enable payment of dividends not only to current accounts as previously done but also to savings accounts held by investors. Dormant accounts would also be able to receive dividends but would require reactivation in other to enable withdrawals.

Gwarzo also assured investors in Diaspora‎ that access to an online mandate form would be provided by registrars to ensure verification of identity and payment of earnings.

Peak's 'Peak Reach for Millions' to produce 60 millionaires in 60 days

As part of Peak’s 60th anniversary celebration, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, makers of Nigeria’s No. 1 milk brand - Peak Milk- is set to reward its consumers for 60 years of patronage and loyalty. Sixty millionaires will be made in 60 days. The promo will run from July 27 and end in September 2015.

Tarang Gupta, the company’s Marketing Director, explained the reason for the promotion. He stated that with the Peak 60th anniversary ‘Peak Reach for Millions’ promo, FrieslandCampina WAMCO wants to deepen brand love with its teeming and loyal consumers who have been with the iconic brand ‘from generation to generation.’

Furthermore, “this 60th anniversary celebration and consumer promotion seeks to reward consumers for their loyalty towards Peak by creating winners and millionaires everyday for 60 days. We are partnering with First Monie and First Bank, our financial partner to disburse cash rewards to all winners and issue surprise cash to early entrants.

“At the end of this promotion, we want brand love to be reinforced as Peak keeps its promise of being with them all the way, especially in the pursuit of their dreams, by rewarding them with money to make their dreams become reality,” he said.

Gupta further explained modalities for the promo, saying that it is open to all from any part of the country, except staff and consultants of FrieslandCampina WAMCO.

Winners Emerge in Ariel’s Selfie Perfect Match Competition

Winners have emerged from the Ariel’s Selfie perfect match competition. Following the launch of Ariel Automatic specifically designed for washing machines on May 10th 2015, stylish customers were rewarded through the hashtag #ArielPerfectMatch throughout the month of May.

The most stylish and liked selfies were selected from the Ariel selfie homepage http://arielselfie.ng/ariel/home/ every week to win various gifts such as LG Automatic washing machine, Vlisco fabric, Ariel hamper, Gift vouchers and the grand prize of an outfit from Tiffany Amber.

Louisa Ejenavbo - Grand prize winner, #ArielPerfectMatch Competition

In restating its commitment to remain Nigeria’s best stain removal in ONE wash, P&G Nigeria Commercial and Brand Director, Ehinomen Enekabor, says “Ariel believes that innovation starts with the consumer. We gain insights into people’s everyday lives, so that we can combine ‘what’s needed’ with ‘what’s possible’, through the latest technology and innovation. With more and more Nigerians investing in automatic washing machines, it is important that Ariel is able to offer them a world-class product, specifically designed for this purpose.”

“Ariel Automatic is the perfect match for your washing machine to deliver brilliant cleaning results.”

Ariel's mission is to help women and their families to achieve their full potential, by providing possibilities that come from having pristine clean clothes. All Ariel products are manufactured to the highest international quality standards.

Pictures from Harpic All-in-one campaign Open market and Mystery Home Visit Reward

H1: (L-R) Marketing Manager Reckitt Benckiser West Africa, Bamigbaiye-Elatuyi Omotola, a residence of Abesan Housing Estate Ipaja, Ajibade Oluwafunke, another consumer, Okelola Olajumoke and the Harpic Brand Ambassador, Helen Paul at the presentation of gift during the mystery home visit reward for Harpic All-in-one campaign  in Lagos recently 

(L-R) Marketing Manager Reckitt Benckiser West Africa, Bamigbaiye-Elatuyi Omotola, a residence of  Ijaye-Ogba Housing Esate, Okunusi Grace and the Harpic Brand Ambassador, Helen Paul at the presentation of gift during the mystery home visit reward for Harpic All-in-one campaign  in Lagos

(L-R) Trade/Marketing Manager Open Market, Precious Muotoh, a retailer at Mushin Market, Olawunmi Omoware, Harpic Brand Ambassador, Helen Paul and a Key Distributor for Reckitt Benckiser, Tayo Ojuri at the presentation of gift during the open market reward for Harpic All-in-one campaign

Terragon Group Unveils Latest Mobile Solutions at Techplus Conference

In line with its company-wide vision and promise to make mobile meaningful, Africa’s largest Digital Media company, Terragon Group unveiled two of its latest offerings at the just concluded Techplus Conference and Exhibition.

One of the unveiled solutions, tmoni, is a product born out of the Group’s longstanding relationships with Mobile Network Operators in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, tmoni Product Manager, Tunde Adeniran, said that as a mobile operator billing solution, it enables content developers and aggregators effectively monetize digital content, goods and services from over 80 million mobile internet users in Nigeria.

“Content Developers and OEMs can now monetize previously hard to reach demographics as they expand into a fast growing and emerging market. Its benefits includes better conversion rates on mobile, flexible price points and cross-platform integration,” he said.

The other unveiled solution by the Group is hinged on the Group's mobile advertising business - Twinpine Limited. Simply tagged Twinpine Performance Advertising (TPA),  it allows advertisers pays only when there are measurable results from their online mobile campaigns.

OPIC, Microsoft begin financing discussions with Kenya’s Mawingu Networks

The Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), the U.S. Government’s Development Finance Institution, today signed a mandate letter to begin financing discussions with Mawingu Networks, a provider of solar-powered wireless Internet across rural Kenya.

OPIC’s President and CEO Elizabeth Littlefield is in Nairobi for the 2015 Global Entrepreneur Summit, and signed the OPIC mandate today alongside Antony Cook, Microsoft’s Head of Legal and Corporate Affairs for the Middle East and Africa, who served as a witness to the mandate between OPIC and Mawingu.

Mawingu Networks was able to establish their current operating model using an initial grant from Microsoft’s 4Afrika initiative, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), an investment from Angel Investor Jim Forster, and early funding from Paul G. Allen’s Vulcan Inc.

Using a network of solar-powered “nomadic” wireless internet stations, Mawingu provides last-mile connectivity access to areas that cannot economically access the Internet. Spurred on by the promise of Mawingu’s initial pilot operations, OPIC’s consideration of a potential $4 million loan would allow a commercial expansion of a proven model to utilize existing technology of TV White Spaces (TVWS) connectivity for off-grid Internet access.

“The development potential from creative private sector organizations like Mawingu captures the spirit and promise at the heart of this week’s Global Entrepreneurship Summit,” said Elizabeth Littlefield, OPIC’s President and CEO. “Financial support at crucial stages of a company’s business evolution can transform a great idea into a deeply impactful reality for millions in the developing world. By leveraging technology and ingenuity, Mawingu’s massive reach to connect rural African communities to the Internet is just beginning, and I look forward to the growth and scalability of this model that OPIC financing can unlock.”

Plan to Attend Social Media Summit Abuja”Creating income online, sustaining businesses”

Social Media Summit Abuja (SMS) will focus on sharing the solutions to challenges such as internal social media integration, content strategy, storytelling, and how your organization can create a customer-centric strategy to keep prospects sincerely engaged.

Social Media Summit Abuja provides a large depth of social media strategies from experts that are applicable for small to large scale brands at an easy to-understand pace.

Discover how to use social media to attract and engage quality customers, and quickly grow your business. At Social Media Summit Abuja we would reveal relevant insights to accelerate business growth & engagement across social media channels.
SESSIONS:

Some of the topics we would look into include:

• How to Maintain a Strong Brand Identity on All Social Networks
• Engage Key Influencers: How to Use Customers and Employees to Drive Sales
• The Art of Storytelling: Tips and Tricks for Content Creation & Social Media
• Amplified Experiences: How to Tap into the Interactive and Influential to Raise Your Brand Profile
• How to Build Powerful Relationships on Facebook and Beyond
• How to Grow Your Blog’s Traffic and Revenue
• How to Build a Social Media Army Using Twitter
• How to Get More Sales, Engagement and Leads on Facebook Without Increasing Budgets
• Facebook Ads Fundamentals: How to Profit on Less Than $10 A Day

Supermart.ng Watch Your Back! Houeholdmax.com Launches Officially

Mrs Aisha Tinubu, wife of Trojan Estates boss Kunle Tinubu and in-law to Oando Plc CEO Wale Tinubu, last Friday officially launched Nigeria’s premier domestic item online store Householdmax.com (http://www.householdmax.com) to help families easily locate authentic home products and sophisticated items.

Householdmax.com has been in beta mode since last year prior to the official launch and now delivers nationwide. Interestingly, the family online store doesn’t fully support pay on delivery option like most other e-commerce stores.

At a the official launch and media parley which held at Oriental Hotel and hosted by the vibrant Ozzy Agu, the Chief Executive Mrs Abimbola Aisha Tinubu spoke about the uniqueness of HouseholdMax.com. 

“Quality is one aspect we don’t compromise. It is important to us that our customers are pleased with the products they receive in their orders for these to match exactly what they have viewed on the website and were expecting. Because the ecommerce industry is still evolving in Nigeria, it is important to us that customer trust is established and maintained and this can only be achieved by consistently meeting or exceeding our customer’s expectation,” she said.

“We have a Bulk Mart option which allows large households purchase products in bulk at competitive prices. We also have teams dedicated to managing peculiar requests or special instructions attached to all customer oders. These personalized ancillary services that we offer clearly sets us apart from competition,” she furthered.

#UpgradeYourWorld: Windows 10 now available in 190 countries as a free upgrade

Microsoft Corp. announced that Windows 10 will become available Wednesday as a free upgrade or with new PCs and tablets. Windows 10 includes innovations such as Cortana, an Xbox app and Microsoft Edge for a familiar, yet more personal and productive, experience. The most secure Windows ever, Windows 10 is delivered as a service and kept automatically up-to-date with innovations and security updates.

 Windows 10 offers one experience that will become available on the broadest range of devices, including PCs, tablets, phones, Raspberry Pi, Xbox One, HoloLens and more — with more than 2,000 devices or configurations already in testing. The new Windows Store and Windows Software Development Kit also become available Wednesday, opening the door to new and innovative app experiences on Windows 10.

People around the world will celebrate the launch of Windows 10 Wednesday at fan celebrations in 13 countries and via a new yearlong initiative to celebrate people and organizations making a difference around the world. Microsoft encourages people to share how they plan to #UpgradeYourWorld and to vote for a global nonprofit to receive a cash donation by simply mentioning the nonprofit in a post on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter and using the hashtags #UpgradeYourWorld and #vote. More information on Upgrade Your World can be found at http://www.windows.com/upgradeyourworld.

“A new era of Windows starts today. From the beginning, Windows 10 has been unique — built with feedback from over 5 million fans, delivered as a service and offered as a free upgrade,” said Terry Myerson, executive vice president, Windows and Devices Group, at Microsoft. “Windows 10 delivers on our more personal computing vision, with a natural, mobile and trusted experience. Along with our partners, we’re excited to deliver the best Windows ever, which will empower people and organizations around the world to do great things.”

US President learns from DuPont Innovations in Food and Agriculture in Ethiopia

DuPont leaders today joined public and private sector representatives during U.S. President Barack Obama’s visit to Ethiopia to learn more about the impact of U.S. collaborations with local partners under the U.S. Government’s Feed the Future Initiative. This initiative focuses on accelerating agricultural development as an engine of broad-based economic growth in the region.

DuPont, a global science company, has been working for more than 15 years in Ethiopia to promote farmer productivity, agricultural system infrastructure improvements, and food and nutrition security.

“Through science and engineering, we are working to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges, “said Matthias Heinzel, President of DuPont Nutrition & Health. “We are dedicated to improving food and nutrition security around the world with innovative science and application expertise.”

Improving Nutrition in Ethiopia

Ethiopia has a population of over 80 million and thus has a strong nutritional need for high quality, sustainable protein foods. To address this need, DuPont collaborated with FAFFA Foods, to introduce Saba Soya Milk in 2011.

Why Etisalat is Suing MTN and NCC

Mobile telecommunication company, Etisalat is asking a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos to review a decision taken by Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) that allowed 30 per cent differential between MTN’s off-net and on-net retail mobile voice tariffs.

In the filed suit, Etisalat said with the 30 per cent differential, MTN had been able to create a ‘calling club,’ an example of which is its ‘Family and Friends’ package.

Through the package, MTN is allowing its subscribers to call eight subscribers of the network and two others that are not MTN subscribers at the rate of 11 kobo per second. This campaign, according to Etisalat is a threat to the survival of its business. It added that the promo violates NCC’s laws.

The network is also telling the court that NCC is aiding MTN, leveraging on the enormous size of the network to restrict outgoing traffic to smaller operators by pricing on-net tariffs lower so as to make off-net calls unattractive.

At this week’s court proceedings, counsel for Etisalat, Aanu Ogunro, said the 30 per cent differential in on-net and off-net retail mobile voice tariffs granted MTN by NCC was a breach of NCC’s regulations, specifically the Determination of Dominance in Selected Communications Markets in Nigeria.

Appearing before Justice Mohammed Idris, Ogunro submitted an application seeking the leave of the court for the suit to be heard during the court’s ongoing annual vacation. The lawyer described the case an urgent one.

Samsung positively impacts community in Kinshasa (DRC)

What could 30 Samsung Electronics employees, 31 computers and Computer Classes, accomplish? If taken in isolation, not much. But combined together, it could uplift a community in need. This is what a team of Samsung Electronics employees hopes to achieve as it marks its annual Employee Volunteer Programme in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo this week.

The team of volunteers from Samsung Electronics’ South Korean headquarters arrived in Kinshasa to help refurbish classrooms at the Dibua Dia Ditumba Primary School and conduct trainings for 30 teachers and up to 50 learners.

The week-long initiative (27- 30 July) will focus on providing access to technology by installing computers at the school, giving the learners and teachers basic computer skills, and painting the classrooms, to give it a fresh-new look. These activities will be carried out in partnership with Action de Development Communautaire Dibua (ADCD) and Better World. It forms part of Samsung’s Employee Volunteer Programme (EVP), which encourages employees to use their work-time to ccontribute towards the well-being and the socio-economic development of our communities

Bill Kim, managing director of the DRC branch, Samsung Electronics East Africa, said: “The engagement model has been warmly welcomed in communities across Africa. Because programmes are implemented in consultation with communities and are designed to meet their felt needs, they develop a sense of ownership of the projects.”

Abey Tau, Public Affairs & Corporate Citizenship Manager for Samsung Electronics Africa, said community upliftment forms an integral part of Samsung’s conscience. “Samsung is committed to creating positive change for people everywhere so that they may live better lives through new experiences infused with technology.

Convergence Partners concludes successful Pan-African ICT infrastructure fund

Convergence Partners, an investment management firm focused on the African telecommunications, media and technology sector, have announced the successful final close of its Convergence Partners Communication Infrastructure Fund (CPCIF). CPCIF, now with capital of over $200 million, retains its position as the largest fund dedicated solely to ICT infrastructure in Africa.

CPCIF reached its final close with capital commitments from the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), acting on behalf of the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF), and an Africa-focused fund of funds. Additional investors in the Fund include Convergence Partners (as sponsors), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the European Investment Bank (EIB), the Dutch Development Bank (FMO), the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) and the CDC Group (CDC). This diverse range of investors adds to the depth and capability of CPCIF.

Brandon Doyle, CEO of Convergence Partners

It is anticipated that CPCIF will deploy capital to portfolio investments across the African ICT infrastructure spectrum, improving access to technology as well as communication and broadband services. The Fund has a strong pipeline, notably in West Africa, where Convergence Partners is opening an office in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub. The office will be headed up by Iheanyi Kanu, who has in-depth knowledge and experience within both the private equity and ICT sectors, and will enhance the management and monitoring of portfolio companies in the region as well as Convergence Partners’ on the ground transaction capability.

“We believe the current fund size is well suited to the scale of infrastructure investment opportunities we are seeing across the continent, including fibre, data centres, wireless/spectrum, fintech and ICT platforms that enable e-learning and broadcast and media,” says Andile Ngcaba, the Chairman for Convergence Partners. “Access to quality ICT infrastructure is a catalyst for more competitive and efficient business operations and provides new business models for traditional industries such as financial services, healthcare, education and retail; driving sustainable growth and socio-economic development.”

Lagos Startup Week 2015 Underway

Lagos Startup Week 2015 kicked off yesterday, Monday, July 27, 2015 at 5:00 PM and will hold till Friday, July 31, 2015 at 10:00 PM (WAT) at Oriental Hotel,Victoria Island, Lagos.

Attendance is free so you have the opportunity to go there it will be a great time for you to at least get to network and share ideas with like-minds.

There are exciting events lined up already including the smarter city showcase which is aimed at discovering the best startups business and technology solutions for smart cities that meet the needs of citizens and improve overall living conditions.

Another session would help startups address the issue of funding before securing funding and it would be handled by Marcello Schermer, Marcello Schermer, Regional Manager Africa at Seedstars World SA, Seedstar.

StartupLagos is a place to find the very best resources for your startup. SUL was borne out of an inert desire to modify Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape to one that offers greater value-added solutions where businesses are equipped beyond the daily battle of survival. SUL aims to create businesses which are empowered to make a difference through their diverse array of product and services, by starting locally and growing globally.

SUL aims to imbibe a knack for excellence in as many startups in Nigeria and hopes to support Nigeria in creating home grown global brands through the development of strategic implementation solutions.   

Volkswagen Leads Toyota in Global Sales in First Half of 2015

It appears the bold prediction made by Volkswagen Group made in 2007 that it would become the world’s biggest automaker by sales volume by 2018 is gradually becoming a reality. Performance of the company lately is reaffirming that they mean serious business.

After several years of global dominance by Toyota Motor Corp., Volkswagen AG surpassed the latter to become the biggest automaker by deliveries in the first half, putting the company on track to capture the worldwide sales crown three years ahead of its target.

Toyota on Tuesday said it sold 5.02 million vehicles in the six months through June, trailing the 5.04 million that Volkswagen reported earlier this month.

Both automakers have seen their sales decline slightly this year, with Toyota’s numbers coming in 1.5 percent lower than at the same time a year ago, and VW’s coming in 0.5 percent lower. General Motors Company, which is traditionally near the top, sold 4.86 million vehicles in the first half of 2015, down 1.2 percent on last year.

Microsoft Employability Platforms bet on creating 100,000 job opportunities by the end of the year

Microsoft is aiming to create over 100,000 job opportunities and reach over seven million people across the Middle East and Africa by the end of the year through its Employability Platforms, in partnership with organisations from public and private sectors, as well as NGOs.

Launched in 2012, the YouthSpark Employability Platform for the first time provides job-seekers with end-to-end career guidance, upskilling, job-matching and mentorship – all centred on a free online hub that brings the best resources together in a bold attempt to address unemployment and underemployment.

In the MENA region the platform is called Ta3mal (“works” in Arabic) and is a partnership between Microsoft and Silatech, a non-profit organization supporting youth access to employment across the Arab world.

“Unemployment in Africa and the Middle East is not a new issue, but its scope is growing with the youth bulge and economic downturn worldwide and we need to find new solutions to address this problem,” says Ali Faramawy, Corporate Vice President of Microsoft Middle East Africa (MEA).

Microsoft’s solution, in the form of its Employability Platforms, has landed in markets including Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Iraq, Qatar, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, Algeria, Ghana, Palestine and Turkey and will expand to 21 countries across MEA including Tanzania, Pakistan, Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe, Madagascar and Mauritius. To date, the YouthSpark employability platform has reached 5.8 million youth with a target of reaching 7 million by the end of FY15. In addition, 69,000 job opportunities have been posted on the job search tool against 100,000 job openings goal to be reached by the end of the year.

Top 3 Start-ups revolutionizing Job search in Nigeria

Thousands of Nigerians flock the internet on a daily basis in search of jobs as gaining employment has been quite chore. Despite the explosion of apps, websites and other tools for job applicants seeking to optimize their hunt for employment in Nigeria, many are still unable to use the technology available to its fullest potential and some of the job search portals do not give adequate assistance.

There are however some start-ups that are making real strides in combating this dilemma. If you are have your CV ready with a target industry or field in mind, and are looking for the best portal to organize your job search and make the process a whole lot easier — all for free, Jovago.com, Africa’s no. 1 online hotel booking site shares the details on the top 3 start-ups revolutionizing job search in Nigeria.

Opeyemi Awoyemi, Ayodeji Adewunmi and Olalekan Olude 

Jobberman

Jobberman is one of the simplest and most far-reaching job search engines for employment seekers in Nigeria. It was co-founded in 2009 by Opeyemi Awoyemi, Ayodeji Adewunmi and Olalekan Olude and claims to be the “Nigeria's No. 1 Jobs Website.”  

The site creates a marketplace where job seekers and employers can find one another quickly and cost-effectively. It sources jobs directly from companies and recruiting agencies and broadcasts them through their website, blog, email, partner websites and social networks.

Applicants search and apply for jobs by either visiting the website directly or through partner portals. The best part about Jobberman is it’s simply beautiful interface, which is appealing to users.

Renown Journalist, Dele Alao Dies At 43

Renown journalist and senior staff of the New Telegraph, Mr. Dele Alao is dead.

“This is to officially announce the untimely death of my beloved husband, prophet and companion who passed away on 23-7-2015. Mr Dele Alao is a staff of New Telegraph Newspaper. Signed by: Mrs Gloria Chinasaokwu Alao-wife, Mercy Ihuoma Alao-Daughter and the entire Alao family of Ayetoro in Ido-Osi LGA of Ekiti State", a text message from his wife confirmed his passing away.

Late Alao, 43, worked with Newswatch before joining New Telegraph. He was a vibrant member of Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria. 

When Bluebird Communications Clocked 20

To mark its 20th anniversary, Bluebird Communications Limited, a leading marketing communication firm located at Maryland, Lagos on Friday, July 24, 2015 put a play together a stage play “Eniyan” at the beautiful Shell Hall of MUSON CENTRE, Lagos.

The drama, ‘Eniyan’ which simply means 'human being' in Yoruba language touches the fabric and senses of man, regardless of class, age or race. The play was directed by celebrated Nigerian playwright, late Prof. Wale Ogunyemi. Used to send powerful message to past Nigeria leaders.

Commenting on the play, the executive vice chairman of the company, Kunle Ogunmefun said: "We just think that play is apt now considering our environment. It teaches integrity in business, corporate social responsibility, CSR, and how we conduct our lives. The play tries to teach us the essence of life and the need to live a moderate life. It touches on why we should not accumulate so much wealth or build 99 houses when millions of people are suffering out there. It is also full of messages for leaders who want to excel".

Orange acquires additional 9% in Moroccan operator Méditel’s capital

Fipar-Holding, FinanceCom and Orange signed the final documentation on Saturday increasing Orange's interest in Méditel, the Moroccan telecommunications operator, in application of the agreements they signed in December 2010.

Through this transaction, Orange has acquired an additional 9% of Méditel’s capital and benefits from the rights set out in the December 2010 agreements. As a result, Orange now holds 49% of Méditel’s share capital. The Board of Directors of Méditel will now be composed of five members proposed by Orange and four members appointed by the Moroccan shareholders. The company will now be fully consolidated in the financial statements of the Orange group.

Created in 1999, Méditel opened up the telecoms market in Morocco in both fixed and mobile services. The operator has undertaken massive investments in its networks, which now include over 5,400 km of fiber optic cable, including 870 km in Morocco’s ten largest urban areas. In addition, Méditel will complete the overhaul of its mobile network this year, extending its 3G coverage to 95% of the population. In March 2015, the Moroccan regulator ANRT assigned one of the three 4G licenses to the operator, confirming the company’s human and technical expertise. Méditel was the first operator to launch its 4G service, in June 2015.

With more than 13 million mobile subscribers, representing a 31% market share at the end of 2014, Méditel had 2014 revenues of 5.5 billion dirhams (503 million euros(1); growth of +7%), an EBITDA(2) of 1.86 billion dirhams (170 million euros; growth of +18%), and an operating cash flow of 720 million dirhams (66 million euros).

...And the winner of Fayrouz L'Original 2 is Team Meddlelane

Team Meddlelane has emerged winners of the 2015 edition competition of Fayrouz L'Original, receiving the grand prize of N4million.

The team battled Team Hai at the grand finale held at the beautiful Grand Ball Room of Oriental Hotel, Lagos on Saturday, 25 July. Team Hai also received the sum of N1.5 million, while both teams also went home with MacBook laptops as well as cameras for each photographer.

According to the L’Original jury, Team Meddlelane selection was as a result of their display of originality, creativity and confidence demonstrated in their creation in line with the “Enchanted” theme.

In words of one of the jury/creative fashion designer, Mai Atafo: “Success in the fashion world is based on how creative you can be and this is the yardstick with which we have been judging the competition from inception. Not just that, the confidence in which you defend your creativity also matter, we have found all of these in Team Meddlelane which is why they are winners of the competition.”

Team Meddlelane

Senior Brand Manager, Fayrouz, Nnenna Ifebigh-Hemeson, expressed her confidence in the judge’s decision and in the ability of the winning team to make positive impact in the fashion industry. “We are proud of the results tonight and we are sure Team Meddlelane will make great waves moving forward,” she said.