CSR NEWS SUMMARY ISSUE 130

#Health: Govt begins rural development projects

The Ogun state government has concluded plans to embark on infrastructural development projects in some rural communities in the state. The state Commissioner for Community Development and Co-operatives, Mr Gbenga Adenmosun, said this during a ceremony organized by the Orimerunmu Development Board to formally launch some infrastructural programmes in Orimeunmi Town, Mowe.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Sunday, 20^th March 2016

#Economy: Nigeria’s economy may come to stand still- Report

Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product growth could become weaker or even negative in the first half of 2016 because of the reduction oil production after recent attacks from militants, according to Bloomberg Intelligence.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Sunday, 20^th March 2016

#Oil: Nigeria’s oil production faces further decline

The persistent fall in the number of active rigs in the Nigerian oil and gas industry is increasingly threatening the nation’s crude oil production and raises the prospect of more job losses. The nation’s rig count which stood at thirty-eight (38) in January 2015 fell to twenty-five (25) last month, according to the latest data from Baker Hughes Incorporated and the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Sunday, 20^th March 2016

#Agric: Cassava farmers explore ethanol as petrol alternative

The Nigerian Cassava Growers Association in Cross River state says that it is working with some relevant stakeholders to find ways of using ethanol extracted from cassava as an alternative to petrol.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Sunday, 20^th March 2016

#Oil: Use Telecoms Industry to drive Economy, NCC boss urges FG

Arising from the global crash in crude oil sale, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), Prof Umar Danbatta, has advocated the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to drive the country’s economy.

Published by This Day Newspaper on Sunday, 20^th March 2016

#Health: CSOs demand accountability in Child, Family health

Groups under the aegis of Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) with support from Partnership for Advocacy in Child and Family Health (PACFaH) have demanded for accountability in the management of child and family health in the country.

Published by This Day Newspaper on Sunday, 20^th March 2016

#Power; Power Supply- TSN urges Niger Delta youths against vandalism

Worried about the spate of pipeline vandalisation in the Niger Delta region and the resultant effect of poor power supply, a group of professionals under the auspices of Team Support Nigeria (TSN) have appealed to youths in the area to shun vandalism.

Published by This Day Newspaper on Sunday, 20^th March 2016

#IndustryPulse: BHM launches PR report

BlackHouse Media (BHM), a leading communication and public relations company has launched a pioneering report on Nigeria’s PR industry.  The 106-page book is compendium of quantitative qualitative research augmented by industry-wide perspective and knowledgeable commentary concerning PR practices in Africa’s largest economy.

Published by This Day Newspaper on Sunday, 20^th March 2016

 #Health#Philanthropy: ExxonMobil donates breast cancer clinic to LUTH

To ensure that women get the best possible treatment, and conserve scarce foreign exchange, Mobil Producing Nigeria (MPN), an affiliate of ExxonMobil, in joint venture with the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has constructed a one-stop breast care clinic, in Lagos, in collaboration with the Run For Cure Africa (RFCA), a non-governmental organisation (NGO).

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Sunday 20^th March 2016

#Oil; NNPC saboteurs trigger fuel scarcity, says IPMAN

Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (PMAN), yesterday, hinged the persistent fuel scarcity in the country on the nefarious activities of saboteurs in Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Sunday 20^th March 2016

#Empowerment: US NATCOM and UNICEF to spend 72m to on Female Teachers

United States National Committee in collaboration with United Nations’ Children Fund is to spend about N72million on 300 female teachers under the Female Teachers Trainee Scholarship Scheme in Gombe State for three years. The programme aims to boost girl-child education, especially in the rural areas.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Sunday 20^th March 2016

#ICT#Empowerment: Firm trains Youth on ICT at LAUTECH

Aiki Nigeria, a national platform for youth to access relevant services for employability and support for entrepreneurs, has concluded its two-day training on basic ICT for students of the Ladoke Akintola University (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso. The training session included Microsoft office packages, social media and blogging.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Sunday 20^th March 2016

#Agric: Nigerian Businessman plans $750m Agro-investment in Edo state

The advocacy of economic diversification received a boost yesterday, when a Nigerian business mogul, Hosa Okunbor and some Mexican farmers unveiled a $750m investment in agriculture in Edo State. The agricultural project is expected to produce 25,000 direct jobs and 60,000 indirect jobs.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Sunday 20^th March 2016

#Investment: Verdant Zeal hosts fifth Innovention

As investors and manufacturers look for alternative ways to boost productivity in a slowed down economy, Verdant Zeal Marketing Communications is offering new ideas at its 5^th edition of Innovention.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Sunday 20^th March 2016

#Economy: Nigeria’s total export slumped by over 40%in 2015

Nigeria’s total exports slumped 40.3 percent to N9.7288 trillion in 2015, from N16.304 trillion in 2014, pulling total trade down significantly. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said in a report at the weekend that the country’s total trade recorded at N16.4268 trillion dropped as much as 30.6 percent below the N7.2516 trillion total trade values recorded for 2014.

Published by the Business Day Newspaper on Monday 21^st March 2016

#Economy: ‘50% FDI into Nigeria in Q1 domicile in Lagos’

Lagos State government at the weekend said 50 percent of the total Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) inflow into Nigeria in first three months of this year, are domiciled in Lagos. Yaku Bashorun, permanent secretary, Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment, who disclosed this at a one-day sensitisation of ministries and agencies of the government on the mandate of the newly created office, put the value of the FDIs at N5 billion.

Published by the Business Day Newspaper on Monday 21^st March 2016

#Industry: AXA Mansard innovative products pay off as premium income soars

AXA mansard Insurance Plc’s innovative products and aggressive risk appetite in a tough operating environment has paid off as the Nigerian insurer recorded a double digit growth in premium income to end 2015 financial year.

Published by the Business Day Newspaper on Monday 21^st March 2016

#Partnership: Vitafoam partners Ogun State on industrialization

Ogun State Government has endorsed the proposal by Vitafoam Nigeria Plc to partner with the state on industrialisation in what has become a new strategic business opportunity for corporate growth and development.

Published by the Business Day Newspaper on Monday 21^st March 2016

#Innovation: Lands.ng launches premier online land listing, service platform

Lands.ng, an online land listing and service company, has launched the first online platform on sales and purchases of lands in Nigeria to ease the search for land and its transactions.

Published by the Business Day Newspaper on Monday 21^st March 2016

#Economy: Nigerian stock market declines by 1.13 percent

the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index depreciated by 1.13 percent last week to close at 25,694.79 points, from 25,988.40 points at the beginning of trading. Also, the equities market capitalisation dipped to N8.839 trillion from N8.940 trillion, representing value loss of about N1 billion. All other Indices finished lower last week, with the exception of the NSE Premium Index and the NSE Consumer Goods Index that increased by 0.89% and 0.78% respectively.

Published by the Business Day Newspaper on Monday 21^st March 2016

#MSME: UNIDO launches ITPO to connect Nigerian MSNEs with global counterparts

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has launched the Investment Technology Development Office (ITPO) in Nigeria, with a view to giving micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) a ‘lifeline support’. With this, UNIDO would interlink MSMEs with their global counterparts using its platform to advance their businesses.

Published by the Business Day Newspaper on Monday 21^st March 2016

#Economy: Nigeria’s GDP projected to hit $6.4trn by 2050

The Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has been projected to rise to $6.4 trillion by 2050, thereby moving the country to the ninth position on the world ranking, surpassing Germany, United Kingdom, France and Saudi Arabia.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Monday, 21^st March, 2016

#Economy: State’ Internally Generated Revenues rise to $4.0 billion

States in the country now rely less on federal allocations as latest statistics released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have revealed significant increase in their Internally Generated Revenues (IGRs). The CBN data for 2014 revealed that internally generated revenue provided 21.8 percent of the total revenue of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), compared with 15.3 percent the previous year.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Monday, 21^st March, 2016

#CSR: TECNO donates Solar Streetlights

TECNO, a leader in mobile Telecoms technology in Nigeria, has been commended for installing 88 solar powered streetlights around the computer village and environs in the Ikeja Local Government Area of Lagos State.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Monday, 21^st March, 2016

#Economy: Four bank boosts the economy with N5.8trn loans despite headwinds.

For banks- Access Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa and Zenith Bank Plc- boosted the economy with a total loan of N5.810 trillion to their customers despite the headwinds that prevailed during the year under review.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Monday, 21^st March, 2016

#Empowerment: BoI shortlists 311 for N600.5m loan under GEF scheme

Following the completion of its appraisal exercise for applications under Graduate Entrepreneurship Fund (GEF) Programme, the Bank of Industry has said 311 business proposals have been shortlisted for funding.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Monday, 21^st March, 2016

#Empowerment: British Council, First Bank launch Playable City Lagos

First Bank of Nigeria Limited under its Arts Initiative, First@arts is collaborating with British Council Nigeria to announce the launch of Playable City Lagos, a series of creative, collaboration workshops bringing together artists, producers and technologies from Lagos and the UK as part of UK/Nigeria 2015-16.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Monday, 21^st March, 2016

#Education: Banks train students on Financial Management

In commemoration of the 2016 Financial Literacy week held last week, banks took out time to dedicate several hours to the teaching of financial literacy in selected schools across the country.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Monday, 21^st March, 2016

#Partnership: Skye Bank partners Kia on Auto Finance deal

The Skye Bank has said the high interest shown by its customers and members of the public in the strategic auto finance agreement between it and Kia motors has produced a new generation of car owners who contribute just 20 percent of the actual cost of their cars.

#Innovation: StanChart unveils Digital Retail Banking products

The Standard Chartered Bank has announced the global launch of its retail work bench, a digital tablet-based sales-and-service tool that “brings the bank” to clients.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Monday, 21^st March, 2016

#Power: NERC approves license for 550MW Ondo IPP

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a generation license to Ondo state Government and its partners, Kingline development Company, a South Korean firm, to generate 550 megawatts (MW) of electricity in the state’s Independent Power Project (IPP) project.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Monday, 21^st March, 2016

#Power: Buhari targets 10,000MW in 3 years

President Muhammadu Buhari has noted that even though Nigerians were now turning the poor power situation in the country to a butt of joke, it was no longer funny. The President who spoke on Monday at the opening session of National Economic Council Retreat on the Economy at State House Conference Centre, Abuja, vowed that by the end of the remaining three years of his administration 10,000 megawatts will be achieved.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#Education: 50 universities unveil research work in UNIZIK

Nigerian universities have the intellectual resource to take the nation to a higher level. The quality of research products exhibited at the just concluded sixth Nigerian Universities Research and Development Fair (NURESDEF), hosted by Nnamdi Azikwe University, Awka (UNIZIK), proved that development in science and technology is moving at a reasonable pace. The exhibition had about 50 universities across the country in participation. The research projects in the various universities kept visitors in awe.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#Education: MAPOLY to award degrees soon- Gov Amosun

Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has disclosed plans for the first state-owned higher institution in the state, the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, to award degrees in various fields of studies.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#IndustryPulse: NAICOM moves to boost insurance penetration in states

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has unfolded plans to drive insurance penetration in all the states of the federation.  Commissioner for Insurance, Mohammed Kari, stated this at a retreat for Insurance Correspondents and Business Editors held at the Legacy Hotel, Obasanjo Presidential Library (OPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State last week.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#Economy: Forex scarcity triggers 90% spike in international airfares

International airlines flying into Nigeria may have jacked up airfares by about 90 percent. Daily Sun learnt that the rise in airfares was not unconnected with attempts by airlines to get prices of air tickets usually fixed in foreign currencies to reflect the recent fall in the value of naira, particularly against the dollar.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#IndustryPulse: MoneyGram, GTBank launch service to boost remittance market

MoneyGram and Guaranty Trust Bank have launched MoneyGram Receive service into Nigeria’s 421 billion annual remittance markets. This service will be available through MoneyGram’s cash to account service across the GTBank network.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#Economy: MPC to keep rates unchanged, focus on stimulating growth- Experts

Economic policy experts yesterday predicted the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN’s) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) may adopt a wait-and-see approach of keeping all rates constant while continuing to harp on structural reforms and policy coordination with the fiscal arm.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#StakeholdersAction: NAICOM workers protest poor welfare

Business activities were on Monday paralysed at the headquarters of the National Insurance Commission as a result of a protest staged by the workers of the organization. The workers, in their hundreds, shut down the premises of the regulator of the insurance sector alleging corruption, lac of capacity building and poor welfare of members of staff as some of the reasons for the protest.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#IndustryPulse: Konga appoints new CEO

Konga Online Shopping Limited has announced the appointment of Mr Shola Adekoya as its new Chief Executive Officer. He takes over from the founder and former CEO, Sim Shagaya, who now serves as the chairman of the board of directors.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#Entrepreneurship: Aiki steps up entrepreneurship training with ‘code2earn’

Aiki Nigeria on Monday said it had commenced its training on coding and entrepreneurship, as part of its vision to get one million fingers coding by 2017.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#Empowerment: Airtel boss makes case for science training

Managing Director/ Chief executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr Segun Ogunsanya, has called o0n stakeholders in education to deepen science education and develop a curriculum that prepares employable students.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#Philanthropy#Education: Group offers scholarship to students

Efon Alaaye Development League, Lagos branch, has said that it is committed to supporting youths of the community to accomplish their desires. The Chairman of the association, Mr Emmanuel Ajewole, stated this when the group presented scholarships and equipment valued over N2m to five undergraduates and three artisans.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday 22^nd March 2016

#Health: New HIV therapy can eradicate virus in two weeks

A new therapy, harnessing the power of human antibodies, has eliminated Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV)-like virus from the bodies of two monkeys in just two weeks, scientists have revealed.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Economy: AfDB cautions Africa against debts denominated in foreign currency

From the African Development Bank (AfDB) has come a piece of advice that countries on the continent should be wary of risks while diversifying their financing sources, to be able to effectively manage the vagaries of currency depreciation and depletion of foreign reserves.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Economy: Govt, states set outlook for economy in the next three years

An outlook of what to expect from the country’s economy in the next three years, including a gradual increase of Value Added Tax (VAT) rates, was yesterday made public from the ongoing National Economic Council (NEC) retreat through highlights released from the presidency.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#IndustryPulse: Forbes Africa to launch first global TV platform- Forbes Africa TV with Peace Hyde

Leading business magazine, Forbes Africa set to launch the first glogal TV platform, Forbes Africa TV. The publication is the 16th local-language edition of the highly successful Forbes Magazine renowned for exploiting various matters, as well as its many lists based on the levels of global wealth and power, offering topics such as “The World’s Most Powerful People”, “Global High Performers” and “The World’s Billionaires”.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Health: Climate change, lack of sanitation may increase water-linked diseases

AQs part of activities marking the World Water Day yesterday, the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) has warned that the push to bring safe water to millions around the world is going t be even more challenging due to climate change, which threatens both water supply and water safety for millions of children living in drought or flood-prone areas.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Education: ASUU charges S’West govs on robust education policies

The Coordinator, Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Ibadan zone, Professor Segun Ajiboye has implored South West governors to refocus their education policies towards a qualitative delivery.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Health: Cross River partners FHI on $1.8m learning programme

Concerned about the learning capacity of secondary school students in Cross River State, especially in the area of health and career choice, an organization called Four Pillars Plus has launched a special $1.8 million project to actualise the dream.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Technology: Govt to establish science and technology development bank

Greater days are ahead for the nation’s innovation industry, as the Federal government yesterday announced that it was setting up the nation’s first science and technology development bank.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Energy: UK supports Nigeria’s energy forum

The 2016 Nigeria Energy Forum (NEF 2016) aims to facilitate increased energy access, strengthen energy capacity building initiatives and attract direct foreign investment to Nigeria’s electricity sector. The forum will hold from 12th to 13th April at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos, Nigeria.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Event #Oil: PETAN supports sub-regional oil confab

Energy and Corporate Africa, the organizers of the 9^th yearly Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) Oil and Gas Conference, scheduled for April 27-28, 2016 at Houston Marriott Westchase, has announced that the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria will participate fully in the conference.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#CSR#Oil: Shell boosts sub-surface oil drilling skills in varsity

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) has donated an ultra-modern sub-surface research centre to The University of Ibadan aimed at promoting the development of top rate manpower in the nation’s oil and gas industry.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Power: IAEA says Nigeria ready for nuclear technology transfer

Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, Yukiya Amano, has said the agency was ready to begin the transfer of nuclear technology to Nigeria for energy development purposes, even as he appealed to Nigeria to use nuclear technology responsibly.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Technology#Oil: Embrace innovation, new technologies, Kachikwu tells oil firms

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr Ibe Kachikwu has urged companies to embrace new technologies and adopt innovations as part of measures to survive the difficult operating times occasioned by the current oil price fall.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Power: UNIDO partners Taraba on 330KW hydro power plant

The governor of Taraba state, Mr Darius Ishaku, has expressed his administration’s commitment to construct additional 330KW power plant at Kakara in Sardauna Local Government Area of the State.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#StakeholdersAction: Miners demand diversification of Nigeria’s revenue base

The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, NMGS, has urged the Federal Government to quickly reform the downstream sector of the oil industry by ensuring increased local refining of products, as well as improvement in laws to monitor and ensure efficiency of retail petroleum outlets across the country.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#StakeholdersAction: Eket youths protest non-payment of oil spill palliative by Mobil

Youths of Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom are up in arms against multinational oil company, Mobil, over non-payment of oil spill palliative meant for Eket since 2011.

Published in the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Economy: CBN raises interest rate to 12%

Four months after the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) reduced interest rates, it has reversed its decision and increased Monetary Policy Rate or interest rate to 12 per cent.

Published in the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Oil: Nigeria backs OPEC meeting to stabilise oil price

Nigeria will join other members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) at the April 17 meeting with other non-OPEC members in Doha, Qatar to discuss a production freeze to support rally in oil prices, an official of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources said yesterday.

Published in the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Health: MTN backs efforts to end maternal mortality

One of the enduring misfortunes in history is a woman’s death during pregnancy or child birth. The World Health Organization (WHO) in conjunction with most countries is battling to end the scourge. As part of this year’s Mother’s Day celebration, MTN Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of telecoms giant MTN Nigeria, joined forces with JNC International to unveil its Maternal Support Project to back government’s effort in reducing maternal mortality.

Published in the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday 23^rd March 2016

#Economy: National Assembly passes 2016 budget

The National Assembly yesterday approved the 2016 budget with a reduction of N17.8bn from the N6.077tr presented by President Muhammadu Buhari. Buhari had in December presented a budget of N6.07 trillion but the lawmakers cut it N6.06 trillion, a reduction of N17 billion.

Published by the Daily Trust Newspaper on Thursday, 24th March 2016

#Empowerment: CMD accredits 434 management institutes, seeks domestication of training

The centre for Management Development (CMD) says it has conducted accreditation for 1,443 management training consultants and 434 management training institutions across the country.

Published by the Daily Trust Newspaper on Thursday, 24th March 2016

#Health: JCI donates delivery kits to pregnant women at Paikon-Kore

The Joint Chamber International (JCI), a nn-governmental organization (NGO), has donated delivery kits and insecticide treated mosquito nets to pregnant women in Paikon-Kore community of Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja.

Published by the Daily Trust Newspaper on Thursday, 24th March 2016

CSR NEWS SUMMARY ISSUE 129

#Oil: Oil sector suffers amid long wait for PIB

The Nigerian oil and gas sector, which has continued to take a beating from the decline in global oil prices since mid-2014, is desperately in need of a robust legal framework to attract investment, stakeholders have said. The Petroleum Industry Bill, which was not passed before the end of the previous administration, is expected to be re-packaged and submitted to the current National Assembly.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Sunday, 13^th March, 2016

#IndustryPulse: CBN suspends deputy governor, directors for fraud

One of the three deputy governors of the Central Bank of Nigeria is currently on suspension for being involved in a ‘sophisticated plot’ to defraud the bank a huge sum of money, findings by our correspondents have revealed. Top officials of the CBN close to the development told our correspondents that two directors of the bank were also suspended over the multi-million naira scam.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Sunday, 13^th March, 2016

#IndustryPulse: Industrial sector records N8.9tn output

The manufacturing sector recorded an increase of N289billion in its output from N8.68trillion in 2014 to N8.94trillion at the end of December 2015, figures obtained from the National bureau of Statistics have revealed.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Sunday, 13^th March, 2016

#IndustryPulse: Dollar scarcity- Manufacturers turn to local raw materials

The scarcity of foreign exchange has forced some manufacturers to look inwards for raw materials, investigation has shown. Manufacturers who spoke ton our correspondents said they had embarked on urgent search for raw materials and substitutes that could be sourced locally because access to forex through the official route was nearly impossible while getting it through the black market was very expensive.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Sunday, 13^th March, 2016

#IndustryPulse: Emefiele suspends CBN deputy Governor, 4 others

In a hardline decision, a deputy governor of Central Bank of Nigeria and four deputy directors have been suspended by the apex bank Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, for failing to follow financial regulations and due process, leading to the scamming of the bank by fraudsters.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Sunday 13^th March 2016

#Energy; As power Generator Generation 3118MW, water level, Gas Supply still major challenges

Electricity power generation yesterday increased to 3118megawatts (MW) from a low 1580MW some days ago. But low water levels and gas supply issues y hinder it from returning to the level of between 4500MW and 5000MW, at which it stood before the drop.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Sunday 13^th March 2016

#Economy: Despite concerns over credit facilities, manufacturing sector records 6.93% growth in Q4 2015

The manufacturing sector of the economy recorded a growth of 6.93 percent in the fourth quarter of last year amid lack of significant credit advance from the banking sector.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Sunday 13^th March 2016

#Economy: Analysts predict gloomier Outlook for Q1

Despite the recent rebound of crude oil prices at the international market, analysts have painted a gloomier economic outlook for the first quarter of this year, forecasting a weak growth rate for the economy.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Sunday 13^th March 2016

#IndustryPulse: More Management Changes in NNPC

Nigeria’s state oil company, the main revenue earner in Africa’s biggest crude oil producer, has appointed more senior managers in a continued overhaul of the firm, it said on Friday.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Sunday 13^th March 2016

#Energy: Hope Kindles as Oil Prices Rally

In a pulsating show, global crude oil prices last week recovered some of their margins and finally beat Nigeria’s budgetary benchmark to trade above $38 per barrel. Although too early to jubilate, news of the price recovery gave a bit of optimism to authorities in Nigeria that perhaps, the country may after all gain some advantages in financing its expenditure proposal in its 2016 budget.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Sunday 13^th March 2016

#IndustryPulse: GTB Maintains lead in Forex Allocation from CBN

For the second week in a row, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (GTB) maintained its lad garnering the highest allocation of foreign exchange from the central bank of Nigeria (CBN), as last week’s figures have shown.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Monday 14^th March 2016

#Investment: Investors exchange N13.9trn on FMDQ OTC exchange in two months

Investors staked a total of N13.92trillion on securities in the Nigerian fixed income and currency markets in January and February of 2016. The transactions were facilitated by FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange in the two months. The FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange was licensed by the securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as the over-the-counter (OTC) securities exchange and self-regulatory organization to run the fixed income trading platform and organize the market to international standard.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Monday 14^th March 2016

#Event#empowerment: Fidelity Bank, Firm to hold workshop

Fidelity Bank Plc and Koinonia ventures Limited are set to hold a one-day workshop/training on exports. According to the bank, the workshop could not have come at a better time especially in view of growing emphasis on export and import substitution. With the prevailing economic condition precipitated by the free fall in global oil prices, the lender said it was imperative for the country to expand and increase non-oil exports to foster sustainable and inclusive growth.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Monday 14^th March 2016

#Event: Bankers Committee marks Global Money Week

As part of its commitment to promote financial inclusion in Nigeria, and to commemorate Global Money Week 2016, the Bankers’ Committee through its Financial Literacy and Public Enlightenment Sub-Committee has mapped out activities directed at primary and secondary school students. Global Money Week takes place from Monday, March 14^th to Sunday, March 20^th and the Bankers’ Committee has designated Thursday, March 17^th as ‘Financial Literacy Day’

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Monday 14^th March 2016

#Oil: Hope rises as oil prices stage recovery

There appears to be a glimmer of hope for Nigeria with the evidence that oil prices are stabilising and could even begin rise again. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), lower oil output in the US and other countries was helping to curb the glut in the supply of crude oil.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Monday 14^th March 2016

#Empowerment: ACCA moves to enhance youth employability

The Country Director, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Nigeria, Mrs Toyin Ademola has said the ongoing initiative by the group to address skils gaps and boost the employability of Nigerian graduates had been successful.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Monday 14^th March 2016

#Power: Power generation gets boost as GE supports Bresson’s 500MW

Global Energy giant, General Electric said it would provide support for Bresson AS’ plans to provide 500megawatts of electricity to the national grid by next year.

Published by ThisDay Newspaper on Monday 14^th March 2016

#Power: NERC says new electricity tariff to bridge the N180bn market gap

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) says the new electricity tariff regime would help in bridging the over N180 billion market gap recorded in 2015. Anthony Aka, acting NERC chairman, who gave the information in a chat with Business Day recently, threatened to hold Distribution Companies accountable if they failed to meter all the consumers within one year, as stipulated in the service agreement signed by both parties.

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#IndustryPulse #Partnership: Ecobank in partnership with Afreximbank to deepen Intra-African trade

Ecobank, with presence in thirty-three (33) African countries including Nigeria, has held has held a strategic partnership meeting with the Africa Import-export bank, otherwise called Afreximbank, to deepen intra-African trade, a statement from Cairo, Egypt headquarters of the pan African trade bank said.

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#Health: MTN Foundation, JNCI partners states to reduce maternal mortality

The MTN Foundation (MTNF) and JNCI in partnership with Oyo, Sokoto, Kaduna, Abia, Cross Rivers and Niger States have rolled out Maternal Ward Support Project, an initiative aimed at complementing the national objective of reducing maternal and infant mortality in Nigeria.

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#Oil: Naira pressure to wane on improve foreign reserve, oil price

The pressure on the naira is expected to reduce the stability maintained at the foreign exchange (FX) market this week following noticeable improvement in the foreign reserves and crude oil prices.

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#Oil: China seeks more crude oil export from Nigeria

China said it seeks more crude oil export from Nigeria in spite of the recent changes in oil prices. Zao LingXiang, Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#Empowerment: LAPO empowers 900,000 women in 29years

Towards advancing gender equality, the management of Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO) said it had since 1987 empowered over 900,000 Nigerian women through various poverty alleviation programmes. Sabina Idowu-Osehobo, executive Director of LAPO said on Thursday during the 2016 LAPO International Women’s Day in Benin City.

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#Economy: Nigerian-British Chambers plans to expand £7bn bilateral trade volume

Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) plans to expand the volume of trade between Africa’s largest economy and the United Kingdom which currently stands at £7billion.

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#Entrepreneurship: BoI initiates YES programme to instil entrepreneurship in Nigerian youth

The Bank of Industry has initiated the Youth Entrepreneurship Support (YES) Programme with a view to instilling entrepreneurship spirit in the Nigerian youth. At the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with entrepreneurship capacity building facilitators and consultants, Waheed Olagunju, acting managing director/CEO, said this was another initiative of BoI designed to address youth unemployment in Nigeria

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#Investment #Infrastructure: Investors to build $1bn pharmaceutical facilities in Ogun FTZ

A group of investors from Shaaxi Pharmaceutical Industries Limited in the Republic of China have concluded arrangements to construct a $1 billion hi-tech pharmaceutical park, drug manufacturing facilities, health centre and hospital on a 1000-hectare of land located in Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone (FTZ).

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#Trade; Slovenia, Nigeria to deepen bilateral trade

The Slovenian-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce (SNCC) and Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ltd (ACCI) have reached a compromise to increase the bilateral trade volumes of both countries. Fred Uduma, SNCC President who stated this while receiving delegation of Slovenian Business Community to ACCI in Abuja, however expressed concern that the vast trade opportunities in Nigeria were not being utilized.

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#IndustryPulse: PETAN elects new executives

Petroleum and Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) has elected new executives with Bank-Anthony Okoroafor as the chairman. The new chairman has promised he would work with all the stakeholders in the oil and gas industry to further deepen the local content policy of the federal government for the benefit of the sector and the Nigerian economy.

Published in the Business Day Newspaper on Monday, 14^th March, 2016

#Education FG may redesign education system

The federal government on Monday hinted the content of the nation’s education system might be redesigned to promote the spirit of inclusion in schools. The government also resolved to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals 4, which stipulates quality education for all citizens.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March 2016

#Empowerment: ‘Tech coding, key to sustainable development

Hacey Health Initiative, in collaboration with Access Bank and the United States Consulate, has approved the training of about seventy (70) female Nigerians in computer programming and coding. The group said that the decision was in a bid to increase the number of female programmers in the country for efficient technology coding delivery, ‘as tech coding is key to sustainable development.’

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March 2016

#Technology: FG to establish technology development bank

The Federal Government is in the process of establishing a science and technology development bank, the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, has said. Onu said this when he received the National Association of Motor Mechanics and Technicians led by its President, Mr Suleiman Oseni, who paid him a courtesy call in Abuja on Monday.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March 2016

#StakeholdersAction: Stakeholders back repeal of 37-year-old Bankruptcy Act

Stakeholders in the financial services sector on Monday expressed support for the new bill that would repeal and re-enact the 37-year-old Bankruptcy ans Insolvency Act

#Innovation #Energy: Firm berths Nigeria’s first online energy platform

Compare Energy Prices Ng., Nigeria’s first online platform to connect buyers and sellers of energy products has been unveiled in Lagos.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March 2016

#Oil: MainOne wants oil, gas firms to leverage technology

MainOne has urged forward-looking enterprises to gain competititve advantage by embracing digital transformation. Tha company said the call was apt in view of the present ‘turbulent market landscape’, especially in the oil and gas industry.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March 2016

#Education: FG may redesign education system

The Federal Government on Monday hinted that the content of the nation’s education system might be redesigned to promote the spirit of inclusion in Nigerian schools.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March 2016

#Education; Mediocal Students to spend 11years – NUC

The National Universities Commisiion has stated that any student who wants to study medicine will henceforth spend a minimum of 10 to 11 years for the programme.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March 2016

#Education: MAPOLY to become degree awarding institutution

Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has said that Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, will soon become a degree awarding institution.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March 2016

#Event: New Telegraph Economic Summit holds March 17

The maiden edition of the New Telegraph Economic Summit will hold in Lagos on March 17, a statement by the organisers said yesterday. The summit, organised by New telegraph Newspaper, has its theme: ‘Nigeria: Beyond the Oil economy.’ The one-day event, which will hold at Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Lagos, is to be attended by top political officeholders, captains of industry and other major stakeholders.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#Education: Prof Osofisan clls for state policy to boost reading

As Nigerians join the rest of the world to celebrate the 19^th edition of World Book Day (WBD), Prof Osofisan, a playwright, poet and newspaper columnist has called for state policy to improve declining reading culture among Nigerians.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#MoU: HIS, HTN sign MoU on mobile consolidation in Africa

His Holdings Limited and Helios Towers Nigeria Limited recently entered into an agreement that will enable IHS to acquire HTN’s portfolio of 1,211 diversified tower sites throughout Nigeria. HTN and IHS established the mobile telecommunications infrastructure industry in Nigeria in the early 2000s and the transaction will be the first in-market consolidation in Africa. The transaction will allow continued delivery of best i9n-class solutions to customers and additional investment in infrastructure upgrade.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#IndustryPulse: Global Islamic finance assets now $2trn –SEC boss

The Director General of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mr Mounir Gwarzo, has put the total assets of the Global Islamic Finance Industry above $2 trillion (N394 trillion).

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#Power: Power supply worsens amid 4,068MW claim

A recent claim by the Nigerian Systems Operations Department of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) that it generated 4,068.40 megawatts yesterday, may have been punctured by most consumer’s lamentations that power generation figure announced was not commensurate with supply.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#Oil: Falling crude price- African oil producers meet in Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari has challenged African oil producers to develop and build domestic refineries to be able to add value to their products globally. The President who gave the charge Monday at the opening of the 6^th African Petroleum Congress and Exhibition (CAPE VI) holding in Abuja, Nigeria, noted that if Africa must substantially achieve value addition in the exploitation of its natural resources, APPA must recognise that the development of domestic refining capacity in oil and gas is critical to sustainable economic growth.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#Energy: Nigeria signs agreement on zero flare by 2030

Nigeria will soon sign a deal with oil multinationals to end gas flaring by 2030. President Muhammadu Buhari disclosed this Monday in Abuja at the opening ceremony of the African Petroleum Producers Association (APPA) conference.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#Event: Bankers’ Committee marks Global Money Week 2016

As part of its commitment to promote financial inclusion in Nigeria, and to commemorate Global Money Week 2016, the Bankers’ Committee, through its Financial Literacy and Public Enlightenment Sub-Committee, has mapped out activities targeting primary and secondary school students. Global Money Week, which yesterday is expected to round off on March 20 as the Bankers’ Committee designated March 17 as ‘Financial Literacy Day’.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#Awards: Airtel clinches award for most innovative idea

The Abuja Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) have awarded Airtel Nigeria, with the ‘Most Innovative Business Idea’ award for its recharge and hit-a-million promo.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#MSME: SMEs need to aim for digital transformation- Accenture

 The Small and Medium Enterprises in the country have been advised to adapt to any future digital innovation which is the ultimate aim for digital transformation to boost their businesses.

Published by the Daily Sun Newspaper on Tuesday, 15^th March, 2016

#Gender: Senate rejects bill to boost women status

The Senate yesterday at its plenary session has rejected a bill seeking to empower and boost women status politically and economically as well as guarantee their equal opportunities with men in diverse human endeavours.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday, 16 March 2016

#Partnership: academy partners govt in PPP project financing

A leading provider of specialised, capacity building services concerned over the growing need for Nigeria to diversify her project financing requirement, which is at the moment heavily treasury-laden, Business Law Academy (BLA) set to partner with both at the federal and state governments on the use of private sector sources to fund implementation of their yearly budgetary plans through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) strategy.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday, 16 March 2016

#Inflation: February inflation rate hits double digit of 11.4%

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said yesterday that in February, the national inflation rate in prices of food and services reached a double digit high of 11.4% up from 9.6% in January this year.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday, 16 March 2016

 #Oil: Nigeria, Iraq cut OPEC’s output by 175,000bpd

Total crude oil production of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) fell by 175,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 32.38 million bpd in February, courtesy of the output slide from Nigeria, Iraq and some member countries.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday, 16 March 2016

#Awards: Hartford Green wins 2015 SAP best partner award

A Nigerian Firm, Hartford Green Consulting, has won the 2015 West Africa Best Partner Award of the German based independent software manufacture, System Application Product (SAP).

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday, 16 March 2016

#Empowerment: BoI shortlists 311 for N600.5million facility under the GEF scheme

Following the completion of its appraisal exercise for applications under the Graduate Entrepreneurship fund (GEF) Programme, the Bank of industry (BoI) has shortlisted 311 business proposals for funding. The financial intermediation exercise, which will see the bank providing an aggregate sum of N600.5 million for small businesses under the GEF scheme, hopes to provide intervention to twenty-eight (28) SME clusters out of the identified clusters in the country.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday, 16 March 2016

#Awards #CSR: NLNG bags 2016 CSR Excellence award

The Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Limited, NLNG, has bagged the 2016 Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR, Excellence Award by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The award is in recognition of the impact of the company’s $12million pan-Nigerian University Support Programme, USP.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Wednesday, 16 March 2016

#Empowerment: Fed Govt inaugurates $1m investment, technology partnership with UNIDO

In collaboration with the United Nations International Development Organization (UNIDO), the Federal Government yesterday launched the first N300 million Investments and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) in Nigeria.

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#MSMEs: Foundation seeks improved funding, support for SMEs

Executive Director, FATE foundation, Mrs Adenike Adeyemi, has called for improved finance options and support for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to grow their businesses. Addressing the Foundation’s Alumni Knowledge Building Programme in Lagos, Mrs Adeyemi said SMEs were facing challenges in sourcing funds from banks, stressing the need to reduce barriers that are hampering them from getting access to funding.

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#SMEs #ICT: Experts advises SMEs owners on ICT

A consultant, Teleios Consulting, Adeola Kayode has urged Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) owners to establish online arms to grow their businesses.

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#Investment: Chinese firm invests $200million in Nigeria

A Chinese company, the Lee Group, has invested some $200million in Nigeria I the last five years. Its Chairman, Sheau Lee, made this declaration at the inauguration of a footwear factory at Kijawal community in the Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#Empowerment: Stanbic IBTC promotes women empowerment

Women have been encouraged to have a total shift in mindset, which should be devoid of stereotype, if the much desired gender equality must be attained. This was the submission of women, who gathered at the 2016 Stanbic IBTC Blue Women Network event in Lagos to commemorate the International Women’s Day.

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#Power: Govt to add 1206MW to national grid

The Minister of Works, Power nd Housing, Babatunde Fashola yesterday said plans have reached final stage to add extra 1,206 megawatts (MW) of electricity to the national grid.

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#NGO lifts destitute’s home

No fewer than 2,000 inmates in Oko-oba destitute Home Ebute-Metta Lagos received relief materials such a s food, clothes and water courtesy of Nero Asibelua Foundation (NAF) recently.

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#Economy: Inflation hits 38-month high at 11.4%

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) yesterday announced an 11.4 percent higher than 9.6 per cent reported in January. Inflation has been on a steady rise since December 2014 (8.0 per cent) with the only decline in October last year. The current inflation is the highest record since December 2012 (12 per cent).

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#Bankers’ Committee marks Global Money Week

The Bankers’ Committee through its Financial Literacy and Public Enlightenment Sub-Committee has mapped out activities directed at primary and secondary school pupils. The project is part of its commitment to promote financial inclusion in Nigeria, and to commemorate global Money Week 2016.

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#IndustryPulse: Gwarzo re-elected AMERC chair

The Director-General of Nigeria’s Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mr Mounir Gwarzo, has ben unanimously re-el;ected as the chairman of Africa Middle East Regional Committee (AMERC) of the International Organization of Securities Commission (IOSCO).

Published by the Nation Newspaper on Wednesday, 16^th March 2016

#Energy#Power: Buhari welcomes int’l energy agency’s aid

President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday welcomed the support of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for Nigeria’s aspiration to generate electricity through nuclear energy.

Published by the Daily Trust Newspaper on Thursday, 17^th March 2016

#Education #Partnership: DFID to partner Lagos on education, economy

The Department for International Development has expressed willingness to support the Lagos State Government in the areas of education and economy.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Thursday, 17^th March 2016

#Unemployment: FG, private sector plan three million jobs#

The Federal Government has stated its readiness to partner the members of the private sector with a view to creating three million jobs in three years starting from 2016.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Thursday 17^th March 2016

#Nigerian Umar-Sadiq bags Young Global Leader Award

The World Economic Forum has honoured the Chief Executive Officer, Private Sector Health Alliance, Mr Muntaqa Umar-Sadiq, as the 2016 Young Global Leader. The Chairman and the Head of the Forum of YGL, Klaus Schwab, and John Dutton, in a statement on Wednesday, said Umar-Sadiq, a Nigerian, was honoured for his professional accomplishments and commitment to the society.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Thursday 17^th March 2016

#Industry: 2015 wasn’t bad for manufacturers- Report

Analysis of key activities in the manufacturing sector in the past two years shows that manufacturers did not perform badly in 2015. The manufacturing sector contributed N8.97 trillion to the nation’s economy in 2015, up by N28 billion compared to the 8.69 trillion the sector contributed to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2014.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Thursday 17^th March 2016

#Oil slumps exposes weakness in African economies

Falling prices of crude oil and other export commodities have exposed the weakneses in Nigeria and other African countries’ economy. The naira and other key African currencies are down following the slump in commodity prices, exposing the fundamental economic frailities of the world’s poorest continent, according to Reuters

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Thursday 17^th March 2016

#Empowerment:FCMB promotes financial empower4ment

First City Monument Bank Limited says it is committed to empowering various clsses of Nigerians in line with its corporate social responsibility policy. As a result, the bank said it organized a social intervention training programme for the people of Bayeku community in Ikorodu, lagos State, recently to promote financial empowerment.

Published by the Punch Newspaper on Thursday 17^th March 2016

#Economy: We must produce what we eat, Buhari insists

President Muhammadu Buhari has said that his administration would vigorously implement policies that would revive Nigeria’s agricultural sector and reposition it as the mainstay of the national economy.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016

#Power: NEMSA bans use of untreated electricity wooden poles

As part of the effort to check the rate of electrocution and accidents, the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) has banned the use of untreated wooden poles in connecting consumers in the electricity power sector.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016

#ICT: Nigeria’s 2.6GHz Spectrum Auction to lead MS Affordability-GSMA

The GSMA has projected the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) resumed 2.6GHz spectrum auction process, as would pave the way for faster networks and more affordable smartphones for its citizens.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016

#Economy; Nigeria’s consumer, food inflation rises in Feb, stats office says

Nigeria’s consumer inflation rose to 11.4% in February, up 176 basis points from January, to almost a three-and-a-half year high, dadta from the National Bureau of Statistics showed on Tuesday.

Published by the Guardian Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016

#Oil: Oil prices rise by amost 6% as producers agree to cooperate

Oil prices jumped by almost six per cent yesterday, thus erasing losses of the past two days, after major producers firmed up plans to meet in Qatar to discuss an output freeze.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016

#Partnership: Medview airline partners UAE’s Anta tours

As part of effort to increase the value of its customer experience, one of Nigeria’s foremost airlines, Medview airline, has entered into a partnership with a leading travel and tour company in the United Arab Emirates, Anta Travel and Tours.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016

#IndustryPulse: Delta expands network to North America, Europe

Delta Airlines have entered into a codeshare partnership with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Jet Airways to provide convenient connections for passengers to and from key destinations across North America to the Indian Subcontinent via Amsterdam.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016

#Empowerment: Group supports NYSC to train 5,000 corpers

In a bid to ease the unemployment problems and empower the youths in the country, a private sector partner, Dragnet Solutions and Blogme, has teamed up with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to ensure that the corps members are afforded a highly efficient, innovative and benefiting service through conducting free aptitude tests, which is starting this week at the secretariat in Lagos.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016

#Event: 500 companies to participate in South-South trade fair

The first South-South International fair being organized by the Forum of South-South Chambers of Industry, Mines and Agriculture (FOSSIMA) has attracted the interest of over 500 companies as prospective participants across the country and West African sub-region.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016

#Empowerment: Anambra endorses SABMiller Hero’s Foundation Programme

The Anambra state government has given kudos to Onitsha-based Intafact Beverages Limited, a subsidiary of SABMiller Hero’s foundation programme, aimed at instilling the culture of entrepreneurship among the youth in the South East zone of the country.

Published by the ThisDay Newspaper on Friday 18^th March 2016