The Emir of Daura, His Royal Highness Alhaji Umar Farouk Umar, has declared that President Bola Tinubu remains the Daura Emirate's prefer

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RC Investment Management has been officially identified as the trustee for the shares deal involving First Holdco Plc, in a trustee arrangement endorsed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

This is as the federal government has denied any involvement in the recent acquisition of 25 percent of First Holdco Plc shares by RC Investment Management Limited. Billionaire investor Femi Otedola has also distanced himself from the transaction.

The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), in a statement issued on Friday, dismissed reports suggesting that First Holdco’s shares were acquired on behalf of the federal government.

First Holdco also stated on Friday, denying that its chairman was involved in the transaction.

A statement signed by the special assistant to the President on Communication and Publicity, Office of the AGF,  Kamarudeen Ogundele, read,

“Neither the Federal Government of Nigeria nor the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice participated in acquiring the shares in question.”

Then it clarified that the Office of the AGF “is aware of a trustee set up by the First Holdco, with the CBN approving Stanbic IBTC to oversee it as a third party.”

In a parallel statement, First Holdco clarified that its chairman, Femi Otedola, was not involved in the transaction, distancing him from reports that implied he was behind the purchase.

First Holdco’s company secretary, Adewale Arogundade, confirmed in filings to the Nigerian Exchange that neither Otedola nor government agencies acquired shares in trust, affirming that the transaction was a negotiated deal between private shareholders and RC Investment Management Ltd as the buyer

“The chairman of First HoldCo, Femi Otedola, did not purchase any of the shares in question, nor did the Federal Government of Nigeria, nor any of its agencies acquire the shares in trust,” the company said.

It further disclosed that the sellers of the shares were “Barbican Capital Limited & affiliates and Leadway Group & affiliates,” and that the buyer was RC Investment Management Limited.

The Nigerian equities market has recorded a remarkable 10-day winning streak, resulting in a substantial gain of N6.902 trillion for investors.

Also, this led to market capitalization crossing the N83 trillion mark. This impressive performance underscores the market’s resilience and investor confidence, driven by positive market sentiment and robust trading activities.

The overall market performance measure All-Share Index (ASI), which tracks the general market movement of all listed equities on the Exchange, rose by 8.76 per cent to close at 131,585.66 points on July 18, 2025 from 120,989.66 points it opened trading on July 7, 2025. Also, the market capitalisation gained N6.902 trillion to close on July 18, 2025 at N83.241 trillion from N76.339 trillion at which it opened for trading activities on July 7, 2025.

Market analysts noted that this robust performance lifted the year-to-date (YTD) return to 27.84 per cent, underpinned by persistent investor optimism and growing confidence in the resilience of the domestic bourse.

Reviewing yesterday’s trading session, the Nigerian equities market sustained its bullish momentum this week, as the NGX All-Share Index (ASI) advanced by 1.00 per cent to close at 131,585.66 points. The market capitalization also recorded an increase of N823 billion to close at N83.24 trillion, signaling improved market liquidity and strong appetite for fundamentally sound equities.

The market breadth remained positive, with 46 gainers outpacing 25 decliners, indicating that while some investors engaged in profit-taking, bullish sentiment remained dominant across the board. Learn Africa, NCR Nigeria and UPDC emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent each to close at N6.27, N6.60 and N4.84 respectively, per share.

Ellah Lakes and BUA Cement followed with a gain of 9.98 per cent to close at N10.80 and N123.40 respectively, while FTN Cocoa processors advanced by 9.97 per cent to close at N6.95, per share.

On the other side, Red Star Express led others on the losers’ chart with 9.97 per cent to close at N12.92, per share. Union Dicon Salt followed with a decline of 9.62 per cent to close at N10.80, while Academy Press fell by 6.67 per cent to close at N7.00, per share.

Sterling Financial Holdings Company lost 4.34 per cent to close at N6.17, while First HoldCo depreciated by 4.10 per cent to close at N33.95, per share.

The total volume of trade increased by 180.57 per cent to 3.348 billion units, valued at N62.388 billion and exchanged in 28,593 deals. Transactions in the shares of FCMB Group led the activity with 1.310 billion shares worth N12.627 billion. Fidelity Bank followed with 1.151 billion shares valued at N23.036 billion, while Access Holdings traded 113.804 million shares valued at N3.070 billion.

Chams Holding Company traded 92.621 million shares worth N293.873 million, while Zenith Bank traded 50.705 million shares worth N3.662 billion.

Kenyan human rights campaigner Boniface Mwangi was arrested at his home in the east African country, the latest in a long series of arrests, his wife and an NGO said on Saturday. The prominent activist and former photojournalist has been

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The general manager of Regulatory Affairs at MTN Nigeria, Ikenna Ikeme, has called on citizens and authorities to regard telecommunications infrastructure as vital national assets rather than merely the property of telecom providers.

Ikeme made these remarks while sharing his perspective as a member of the telecommunications industry and his experience in the regulatory field with participants of the MTN Media Innovation Programme in Lagos.

Highlighting the urgency, Ikeme stated that network infrastructure is often targeted during disputes with telecom companies, leading to deliberate acts of vandalism or service disruptions.

He stressed that such critical assets deserve the same level of protection as any essential national facility, arguing, “You cannot destroy national infrastructure or shut it down whenever there is a grievance.

With the protection of the government, the current administration has declared telecommunications infrastructure as critical national infrastructure, deserving of this level of security. “

Ikeme expressed optimism that this development would reduce destructive incidents and foster a more stable environment for telecommunications services.

Looking ahead, Ikeme reaffirmed MTN’s commitment to long-term investment in Nigeria, stating that, ‘we intend to remain, to grow, and to keep contributing positively to the nation’s development.’

In closing, Ikeme touched on the evolving landscape of telecommunications in Nigeria, noting the importance of media support in promoting constructive narratives.

Governors Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and Alex Otti of Abia State have expressed sharply differing views on the creation of new states in the South-East, as debates intensify over the ongoing review of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. Speaking during the

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The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) is set to enhance regional collaboration and boost integration of the West African energy market, focusing on refining, trading, and market harmonisation of petroleum products across the sub-region during a two-day conference to be held next week.

The NMDPRA said that the West African Refined Fuel Conference scheduled from July 22 to July 23, 2025, in Abuja, in partnership with S&P Global Commodity Insights, aims to provide a foundational platform for exploring the potential development of West African reference market for refined fuels focusing on regional standardisation, pricing mechanisms, data transparency, stakeholder collaboration, market fundamentals and participation, expansion of in-country refining capacity and infrastructure development.

“A major focus will be placed on developing frameworks for data transparency, standardisation, and cross-border collaboration for building a robust and reliable pricing reference mechanism in West Africa,” the Authority said in a statement signed by the  director, Public Affairs Department, George Ene-Ita.

According to the midstream and downstream oil and gas sector regulator, in addition to these goals, the Conference will foster conversations around the regulatory, operational, and infrastructural requirements necessary for developing an integrated market. It is expected to bring together key stakeholders from across the energy value chain including regulators, ministries of petroleum/energy across Africa, regional organisations, national and international oil companies and private refiners.

Other stakeholders are depot and terminal operators, African oil and gas associations, financial institutions, multilateral organisations, Oil & Gas traders, marketing companies, ship owners and marine service providers.

“The Platform will also be used to initiate discussions on aligning national policies across West African countries to support the emergence of a cohesive and resilient regional fuel market, marking the beginning of a new era of regional energy cooperation and market evolution,” the NMDPRA said.

The Enugu State Government has demolished a Smart Green School in Mbu, Isi-Uzo LGA, citing substandard work and structural defects.

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UK police arrested scores of people in London and other cities for supporting Palestine Action in a third consecutive weekend of protests over the government’s decision to ban the activist group using anti-terror laws. Some 55 people were held at

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Bayelsa State governor, Senator Douye Diri, has faulted what he described as the ‘endless process’ of reviewing the 1999 Nigerian Constitution.

Speaking on Friday at the Government House, Yenagoa, when he hosted members of the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, the governor recalled that he was a member of the committee when he was in the National Assembly from 2015 to 2020, and expressed concern that successive administrations in the country had not implemented the committee’s recommendations.

A statement by his chief press secretary, Daniel Alabrah, quoted the governor as saying that the exercise was becoming a waste of time and resources as every National Assembly session embarked on the same process without the recommendations being implemented.

The governor expressed the hope that the current federal government administration would ensure that the ongoing review reached a logical end.

Diri restated the need for equitable distribution of the country’s resources, alleging a great injustice to Bayelsa, an oil-producing state making huge contributions to the economy, in having only eight local government areas.

He said, for Nigeria to make progress, it must practice fiscal federalism and uphold justice.

“I thank you for choosing Bayelsa to host the zonal public hearing on the review of our constitution. I appreciate the speaker of the House of Representatives for sustaining this ritual, which I hope will come to an end one day.

“But this is not good for us as a country. We cannot be holding Constitution review and nothing comes out of it. It is becoming a waste of time and resources. I want to believe that this government has what it takes to implement the decisions that will be arrived at this time.

“I was a member of this same committee and nothing happened. But I am hoping that the president we have today, who is a democrat, will implement the recommendations.”

The governor said the state was in a hurry to develop and that the concerted effort of everyone in government had resulted in the steady progress of the state.

He equally faulted those describing Bayelsa as a small state, noting that it is bigger in land mass than about nine other states in Nigeria.

Earlier, majority leader and deputy chairman of the House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, said his Team A, covering Edo, Bayelsa and Delta states, was in the South-South zone to consult with people of the three states and hear from them on the areas that need to effect changes in the constitution.

According to Ihonvbere, only a transparent and participatory process would guarantee development in Nigeria.

He commended Diri’s leadership style, which he said had brought development to Bayelsa just as he is also providing leadership for the South-South region of the country.

He said the Bayelsa State governor left an enviable legacy at the National Assembly and as his former colleagues, they were not surprised about his performance in the state.

Lionel Messi rediscovered his scoring touch with two goals as Inter Miami bounced back from defeat to complete a 5-1 drubbing of the New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer on Saturday. Messi’s red-hot season was rocked on Wednesday

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The immediate past National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mabel Oboh, on Wednesday urged other political leaders to emulate the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie Oyegun, by officially identifying with

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Manny Pacquiao’s bid to make a fairytale return to boxing at the age of 46 ended in disappointment on Saturday, as the Filipino icon was held to a draw by defending WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in Las Vegas. Barrios,

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FirstBank said it has achieved N1 trillion in cumulative instant digital loan disbursements to over 1.5 million customers.

The bank said it achieved the milestone through its FirstAdvance, FirstCredit and AgentCredit products, where 1.5 million unique borrowers enjoyed instant and secure access to credit. This is irrespective of whether they are salary earners, non-salary earners, or micro business owners.

Since its inaugural digital loan in August 2019, FirstBank has developed an unconventional and robust digital lending ecosystem designed with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, to improve access to finance, especially to the high-risk customer segment.

The Bank created a multi- channel loan disbursement service that requires no collaterals, zero documentation and is void of human interactions. Customers also have the convenient options of accessing these loans through platforms such as *894# (FirstBank’s USSD service), FirstMobile, LitApp and the FirstMonie Agent App.

Commenting on the milestone, Group Executive, e-Business & Retail Products at FirstBank, Chuma Ezirim, said “this success underscores our ongoing commitment to innovation and a customer-focused approach, which are central to FirstBank’s core values. Beyond achieving substantial figures, we remain dedicated to fostering opportunities for financial independence across Nigeria in particular, and in Africa at large.

“We value the trust our customers place in us to support their financial aspirations. Our efforts to advance digital lending will persist, especially to the excluded and underserved customer segments, while effectively managing risks in the process.”

FirstBank currently disburses about N1 billion daily in digital loans, demonstrating its commitment to fostering an inclusive, technology-driven future for Nigerians. By consistently investing in advanced technologies and developing customised financial solutions, the Bank seeks to improve the financial well-being of individuals and businesses across the nation.

There are moments in history when a man’s departure echoes louder than his presence. The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday, July 13, 2025, was one of those moments. A nation stood still—not just in grief, but in reckoning. In the slow march of his casket at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport, in the full military honours rendered under a blazing Katsina sky, Nigeria came face to face with the contradictions and clarity of a man we thought we knew.

For eight years, I had the privilege of covering Muhammadu Buhari as a State House correspondent. In that time, I saw the rigid general, the austere democrat, the misunderstood patriarch, and the man who joked often—but was rarely understood. What I saw last Tuesday in Daura, as Nigeria laid him to rest beside the home he built and the earth he loved, was the final act of a life that defied simplification.

Buhari, like many consequential figures, was not universally adored. But few leaders in Nigeria’s post-independence history have elicited the kind of complex respect he did—from friend and critic alike. Whether one stood with him or stood against him, it was hard to ignore the sense that here was a man anchored by a singular compass: duty.

The Federal Executive Council’s tribute session on Thursday offered more than a ceremony—it testified. President Bola Tinubu’s voice was steady as he renamed the University of Maiduguri in Buhari’s honour. Yet, in his tribute, there was something heavier than respect—there was a recognition of kinship. The two had fought political battles side by side, ushering in Nigeria’s first peaceful transition of power between parties in 2015. Tinubu called him “Mai Gaskiya” — the honest one — not as a campaign slogan, but as a summation of character.

“He stood ramrod straight,” Tinubu said, “unmoved by power, unseduced by applause, and unafraid of the loneliness that comes with doing what is right.”

It is that loneliness—chosen, not forced—that defined Buhari’s public life.

He was, as Senate President Godswill Akpabio noted, a soldier who didn’t flinch under fire. “His toughness,” Akpabio said, “was not born of pride but of patriotism.” And while many will debate his record—as is the right of any free people—the integrity of his intentions remains intact. “He did not pilfer the nation’s purse, nor pander to its pleasures,” Akpabio added.

In an age of performative politics, Buhari preferred silence. In a country of strongmen, he governed with restraint. In a region often held hostage by patronage, he challenged governors to pay salaries before sleeping soundly. And in the Villa, he was a man of time—never late, never excessive. Meetings with him rarely exceeded 15 minutes. Say what you must, say it with clarity, and be on your way. And yet, beneath the stern exterior was a man who laughed more often than was known.

He lived modestly, shunned luxury, and carried the burdens of office without seeking to be loved. His governance style drew criticism. But even his critics knew he wasn’t in it for personal gain. “Tell him it’s to help the poor,” Villa insiders would say when pushing proposals. That was his soft spot. That was his mission.

At his burial, it was Yusuf Buhari, his son, who finally broke the stoicism. He struggled to complete his vote of thanks. “Thank you, Daddy. Thank you, daddy…” his voice trailed off in tears. In that moment, the soldier became a father. The President became a man. And the myth gave way to memory.

What Buhari leaves behind is not just roads, policies, or institutions. He leaves behind an ethos. One that insists on personal integrity. One that measures leadership by sacrifice, not soundbites.

Yes, he was not perfect. No leader is. But his flaws did not mask his principles. He may have been hard to access, slow to speak, but his decisions were rarely motivated by greed or malice. He believed in Nigeria. Not just as a country, but as a covenant.

And perhaps that is why his death struck a chord deeper than expected. We didn’t just lose a former president. We lost a rare kind of leader: one who came with nothing, left with little, and carried only the burden of history.

In the end, he asked not to be buried in a national monument, but at home, beside his courtyard in Daura. And there, wrapped in the colours of a flag he served for six decades, Muhammadu Buhari now rests.

But for those of us who walked the corridors of the Villa during his tenure, and those who watched him from afar, his imprint lingers—in our memory, in our debates, and in our aspirations.

Mai Gaskiya is gone. But the question he posed, in silence and in action, remains:

What does it mean to serve without seeking reward?

We may spend a lifetime answering that. He spent a lifetime living it.

The Bayelsa State Ministry of Education has denied claims that contractors handling school projects in the state were being shortchanged.

Speaking on the issue in Yenagoa, the director of Finance and Accounts in the ministry, Mr Joe Sikpi, described the rumours as false and misleading, adding that there are no illegal deductions from the money meant for contractors.

He confirmed that all ongoing school projects across the state were progressing well, with six newly constructed secondary school buildings already completed and commissioned in Igbogene, Biogbolo, Ekeki, Ovom and Akenpai communities.

Sikpi, however, stated that it was only official deductions approved by the state and applicable to other ministries in the state, which is statutory, including 7.5 percent VAT, 2 percent WHT, 3 percent BIM, 1percent EDTF, 1 percent stamp duty, 1 percent supervision levies amounting to 15.5 percent that were being deducted from any contractor’s money at the state treasury.

Abuja Continental Hotel has been  recognised for its exceptional service and modern amenities, winning the *Capital City Excellence in Nigeria Award.

Equally, Lagos Continental Hotel was honored with the Timeless Elegance in Nigeria Award for its classic charm and luxurious offerings.

The Hotels won the trophy at the Hotel Managers Conference Africa which took place in Lagos.

The event also saw group general manager, Karl Hala receive the prestigious Hospitality Impact Award for his transformative leadership in the hospitality sector.

The awards ceremony highlighted the best in Nigeria’s hospitality industry, with industry stakeholders coming together to celebrate outstanding achievements.

Convener of Hotel Managers Conference Africa, Olugbenga Sunday  commended the winners for their dedication to excellence and exceptional service delivery asserting that Continental Hotels’ triple win solidifies its position as a leader in the Nigerian and African hospitality industry.

According to him., the  awards ceremony was a celebration of outstanding achievements in the industry.aa the HMC ,Africa  provides a platform for industry stakeholders to come together and recognise the best in the industry “ the convener emphasised.

He stated that the recognition of Continental Hotels is a reflection of the group’s commitment to excellence service delivery  as  the group has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver exceptional experiences to its guests, hence the awards are a testament to its hard work and dedication.

Group general manager of Continental Hotels, Karl Hala, expressed his gratitude for the award, saying that it is a testament to the hotel group’s hard work and dedication to delivering exceptional experiences to its guests. “We are proud to be recognised for our contributions to the hospitality industry,” said Hala.

According to  him, the group will continue to strive for excellence and innovation in everything we do,” said Hala. “We are committed to delivering exceptional experiences to our guests and contributing to the growth of the hospitality industry in Nigeria.”

Dedicating the.awards to the entire management and staff , Hala noted that the trip recognition is a great acknowledgement of the outstanding contributions of all to the rising profile of the hotels.

He assured the organisers and stakeholders alike that the hotels will. nor rest on their oars and will.not take for granted the unforgettable moments of the awards presentations.

“The awards are a significant moment for us in  the hospitality industry, recognising us as the  best in the industry and celebrating  our outstanding achievements,”  Hala  emphasised.

The Hotel Managers Conference Africa is a premier event in the industry, providing a platform for industry stakeholders to come together and share knowledge and best practices.

A car drove into a crowd outside a nightclub in Hollywood early Saturday, injuring more than two dozen people, including the driver who was pulled out of the car and attacked, authorities said. The cause of the incident is still

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Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command through multiple coordinated operations have rescued six stolen or trafficked children and arrested 10 suspects involved in both local and transnational child trafficking networks.

A statement by the spokesman of the command, SP Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed that at about 9:30pm on Tuesday, operatives from the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the command, working with Neighbourhood Watch members, arrested one Chiaha Josephine (female, aged 64) and Ozomma Christopher Ubanagum (male, 67) in Ezeagu LGA.

He stated that two trafficked children were rescued. The two children are 16-year-old Loveth Mfonobong (female), whose name had been changed to Chiaha Ifunanya, and 12-year-old Benjamin Alex Okon (male), renamed Chiaha Udochukwu.

Ndukwe further revealed that Josephine confessed to buying Loveth in 2021 for ₦900,000 and Benjamin in 2024 for ₦1.4 million.

“Mfonobong could only give her place of origin as Affi (state or LGA unknown), while Benjamin gave his as Oron in Akwa Ibom State. On July 16, 2025, one Ilo Caroline (55) was also arrested for her involvement,” he stated.

Ndukwe added that on July 13, 2025, police operatives from the Command’s Awkunanaw Division, with Neighbourhood Watch, rescued a one-year-and-seven-month-old male child and arrested 28-year-old Chiemerie Daniel Onwe (male) for his alleged involvement.

Police operatives of the Imo State command have arrested 2,785 suspected terrorists, armed robbers, kidnappers, child traffickers, cult members, among others. The command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye, disclosed this Saturday evening in Owerri. He disclosed that the operations were carried out

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Networking isn't just about making connections – it's about building relationships that can open doors to opportunities, collaborations, and growth. Here are some key tips for mastering networking within the Nigerian business community:

1. Strategic Event Attendance: Choose networking events wisely, focusing on those that align with your industry, interests, and goals. Look for conferences, seminars, trade shows, and industry-specific gatherings where you're likely to meet like-minded professionals and potential collaborators.

2. Elevator Pitch Perfection: Craft a concise and compelling elevator pitch that succinctly communicates who you are, what you do, and what sets you apart. Practice delivering it confidently so that you can make a memorable impression in any networking setting.

3. Genuine Engagement: Approach networking with authenticity and a genuine interest in getting to know others. Ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and find common ground to foster meaningful connections. Remember, networking is about building relationships, not just collecting business cards.

4. Utilize Social Media: Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to expand your professional network and stay connected with industry peers. Share valuable insights, engage with relevant content, and participate in online discussions to establish your presence and credibility.

5. Follow Up Relentlessly: Don't let valuable connections slip through the cracks. Follow up promptly after networking events with personalized messages expressing gratitude for the conversation and expressing your interest in staying in touch. Offer value by sharing relevant resources or insights that demonstrate your expertise and willingness to contribute.

6. Give Before You Receive: Approach networking with a mindset of generosity and reciprocity. Look for ways to offer assistance, support, or valuable connections to others without expecting immediate returns. Building goodwill within your network can lead to unexpected opportunities down the line.

7. Diversify Your Network: Seek out networking opportunities beyond your immediate industry or circle. Embrace diversity in your connections, including professionals from different backgrounds, industries, and perspectives. A diverse network can offer fresh insights, innovative ideas, and new opportunities for collaboration.

8. Be Persistent and Patient: Building a robust network takes time and effort, so don't get discouraged by setbacks or slow progress. Stay persistent in your networking efforts, consistently showing up, following up, and nurturing relationships over time. The seeds you plant today may blossom into fruitful opportunities in the future.

In the vibrant landscape of Nigerian business, exceptional customer service isn't just a nicety – it's a competitive advantage that can set your brand apart. Here are some strategies to elevate your customer service game:

1. Listen Attentively: Encourage your team to actively listen to customer feedback, whether it's positive or negative. Every comment is an opportunity to learn and improve.

2. Respond Promptly: In today's fast-paced world, timely responses are crucial. Aim to address customer inquiries and concerns as quickly as possible, even if it's just to acknowledge receipt and provide a timeline for resolution.

3. Empower Your Team: Equip your employees with the authority and resources they need to resolve issues on the spot. Trusting your team to make decisions empowers them to provide better service and fosters a sense of ownership.

4. Personalize Interactions: Treat each customer as an individual with unique needs and preferences. Use their name, remember past interactions, and tailor your approach to make them feel valued and appreciated.

5. Go the Extra Mile: Surprise and delight your customers by exceeding their expectations. Whether it's a handwritten thank-you note, a small gift, or a personalized recommendation, little gestures can leave a lasting impression.

6. Be Transparent: Honesty and transparency build trust. If something goes wrong, acknowledge the mistake, apologize sincerely, and outline the steps you're taking to rectify the situation.

7. Continuous Improvement: Regularly assess your customer service processes and solicit feedback from both customers and employees. Look for areas where you can streamline operations, eliminate pain points, and enhance the overall experience.

Remember, exceptional customer service isn't just about resolving complaints – it's about building meaningful relationships that keep customers coming back for more. By prioritizing service excellence, you can cultivate a loyal customer base and drive long-term success for your business in Nigeria.

1. Follow industry influencers, blogs, and publications to stay informed about the latest trends.
2. Experiment with new marketing channels and tactics to reach your target audience.
3. Analyze your competitors' marketing strategies to identify opportunities and avoid pitfalls.
4. Continuously test and optimize your marketing campaigns based on data and customer feedback.
5. Attend industry events, conferences, and webinars to network and learn from experts.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for personal well-being and business success. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Time Management: Implement effective time management techniques, prioritizing tasks and setting boundaries to ensure a healthy balance.
• Stress Management: Manage stress through exercise, meditation, and other relaxation techniques, ensuring you remain focused and productive.
• Self-Care: Prioritize self-care, ensuring you get enough rest, eat well, and engage in activities that promote personal well-being.
• Delegation: Delegate tasks and responsibilities to trusted team members, freeing up time for personal and professional growth.
• Support Network: Build a strong support network, including family, friends, and colleagues, to provide emotional and practical support.

Starting a graphic design studio in Nigeria can be a lucrative venture for creative professionals. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you launch your graphic design studio:

1. Skills and Training: Develop strong graphic design skills through formal education or self-study. Familiarize yourself with design software, such as Adobe Creative Suite, and stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
2. Business Planning: Create a detailed business plan outlining your graphic design studio's concept, target market, services, pricing strategy, and marketing approach. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your business.
3. Legal Requirements: Register your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to operate legally. Obtain necessary permits and licenses required for graphic design businesses in Nigeria to ensure compliance with regulations.
4. Space and Equipment: Determine whether you will operate from a physical studio or work remotely. If operating from a physical studio, secure a suitable space and invest in necessary equipment, such as computers, printers, and software.
5. Service Offerings: Develop a range of graphic design services tailored to your target market, such as branding, print design, digital design, and web design.
6. Client Acquisition: Develop a sales and marketing strategy to attract clients. Utilize social media platforms, local community events, word-of-mouth referrals, and partnerships with businesses to reach potential clients.
7. Client Relationships: Focus on building strong relationships with your clients. Engage with them regularly, solicit feedback, and address any concerns promptly to maintain a positive reputation.
8. Professional Development: Continuously improve your skills and knowledge by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences. Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to provide the best possible service to your clients.
9. Financial Management: Implement sound financial practices to track expenses, manage cash flow, and price your services competitively. Monitor your business's performance and adjust strategies as needed to optimize profitability.

One of the easiest and cheapest cottage agric businesses you can start without stress is a catfish smoking business.

There are several catfish farmers in Nigeria today, so getting catfish to smoke is not a problem. All you need to start this business is skill and determination.

You don’t have to be a catfish farmer, you might not even have an idea of how fish grows but you can make big money smoking fish for fish farmers.

This is a business for both fish farmers and non-fish farmers.

Smoking fish can be easy if you follow some basic steps.

The four basic steps in smoking fish are :cleaning, curing, smoking and drying.

Tips on smoking catfish

The first step in your fish smoking business is to obtain some fresh fish.

If it doesn’t look FRESH or smell FRESH or feel FRESH, it probably isn’t, and it will make your finished product taste bad.

Use fresh fish.
Smoking will not hide old fish. The quality will be reflected.

Catfish harvest is categorize into two namely; melange (unit weight between 300g-600g) and table size (600g-above),the price/kg of melange is sold for N600 and above N800 and above for table size as at today.

The pocket size of your target audience will determine the type in terms of size of fish to smoke.

After harvesting (as a farmer) or purchasing (as a non farmer) your fresh catfish, put them in a container and add a reasonable amount of cooking salt and cover the container with a lid and place a heavy object on the lid to prevent the fish from getting out of the container.

Leave for about 30 minutes after which all the fish must have been dead then you can start the steps mentioned above.
CLEANING

•     clean fish, removing the gills and intestine.

•     Wash in clean water.

BRINE AND CURE

what is brine?  Basically, brine is salt and water.

Soaking the fish in brine will achieve a few things:

•    It will firm up the flesh to be less mushy.

•    It will draw out any old blood, which will improve the taste.

•    It will add some saltiness to the fish in the right amounts; this is desired.

•    It will add some additional flavoring to the fish.

•    The cure will ensure that we are protected from the deadly botulism bacteria, especially since this is a relatively low temperature cooking environment.

(Brine recipe • 1/2 gallon good clean spring water • 3/4 cup kosher salt (or plain salt, but not iodized salt)

SMOKING AND DRYING
•     Prepare smoker.  Too much smoke will cause the fish to taste bitter. Use just enough wood to maintain a steady smoke. There are various kinds of oven. We shall discuss that in another article.

Click to read more https://catfishpreneur.wordpress.com/2018/09/20/how-to-start-a-smoked-fish-business/#:~:text=The%20four%20basic%20steps%20in,%2C%20curing%2C%20smoking%20and%20drying.&text=The%20first%20step%20in%20your,Use%20fresh%20fish.

The Nigeria International Agricultural Expo NIAEXPO 2024 is set to be a groundbreaking event that will bring together key players in the agricultural industry from around the world. This expo will serve as a platform for showcasing the latest innovations technologies and practices in agriculture.

NIAEXPO 2024 aims to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among farmers researchers policymakers and industry experts. It will provide a unique opportunity for participants to network learn about new trends in agriculture and explore potential business opportunities.

URBANPARTY 6.0 hosted by URBANDRINKS.NET marks our sixth edition—a quarterly event bringing together top-tier professionals executives and visionaries across industries. Our goal is to cultivate connections share ideas and spark innovative collaborations. Previous editions have welcomed over 1600 guests featuring EXCEPTIONAL MUSIC, CAPTIVATING ART EXHIBITION, INVIGORATING DANCE, PRODUCTIVE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES all complemented by your favorite WINE and SPIRITS.

The Huawei IdeaHub Experience is an event that introduces tecnology on another level to the corporate world. The event encompasses different kinds of solutions like Smart School Solutions, Board Room Solutions, etc.

SewMeExpo, where Fashion and Art meet. Over 200 Fashion Designers under 1 roof and over 10,000 clients. 

NIGERIA GOLDEN HEARTS AWARD, recognizes and celebrate the achievements of women who leads, inspire, motivate and generally impact on the Society directly or indirectly, women who uses their influence or work space to make a difference in the society.
It also celebrates women of great minds from diverse industries, Women who knows how to balance their home and work space.

LinkedInLocal events are organic meetups, hosted by members all over the world. They provide the platform and opportunity for networking, community building, learning, industry trends, deals making and sharing best practices for using LinkedIn.
Since 2019, LinkedInLocal Abuja has been the biggest networking event for LinkedIn users in the Abuja metropolis, hosting business leaders, public sector executives, young and old professionals, entrepreneurs and all.
It's about making momentous conversations and meaningful connections.
To register: https://braveiconsglobal.com/linkedinlocalabj.html

Make the Zuma Kids FunRun your family tradition!
The course begins at Area 1 Bridge and ends at the Old Parade Ground Area 10 and includes scenic views along nearby residential streets. The race will begin at 9:00 am. The race will conclude with other activities, including local merchants, food trucks, kids’ zone, music and a festive atmosphere etc.

Whether you're a food vendor, guest, food competitor looking to showcase your culinary skills, sponsor, partner, collaborator, or volunteer, UFF is the place to be.
Experience loads of fun activities such as music, game shows, raffle draws, cooking competitions, seminars, and masterclasses at an affordable price. Indulge in delicious food at discount prices and explore fresh produce also available at discounted prices. 

'The Zone' is hosting a games fest on the 26th of May and it's a get together for adults to play a variety of amazing games, socialise, and have an awesome experience! So, if you're a dedicated gamer, looking for a day of excitement, or just looking for an opportunity to defeat your friends in multiple rounds of games and likely win CASH PRIZES and GIFT ITEMS - this event is for you! Come with your friends, play some awesome games, engage in friendly competitions, show off your gaming skills and earn some bragging rights amongst your friend group!

Lagos Freedom Fest 2024 is a live music and cultural event organized to celebrate Nigeria's independence and diversity. The event is hosted by Tenstrings Music Institute in collaboration with Freedom Park Lagos.

The event will assemble a minimum of 1000 guests and will run from 5 pm until 9 pm - flagging off with cultural activities during the day and a live concert in the evening.