Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Federal Government Introduces Pneumonia Vaccine in Nigeria

The Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) was launched in Lokoja Kogi State on December 22, at the launch were National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the arm of Federal Ministry of Health responsible for Routine Immunization in Nigeria, also at the event were representatives of The World Health Organization (WHO), The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), The Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN), Clinton Health and Access Initiative, GlaxoSmithKline and other partners in the routine immunization landscape in Nigeria The Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Capt. Idris Wada described the introduction of the new pneumococcal conjugate vaccine as an essential response to reducing pneumonia in Nigeria. The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Arch. Yomi Awoniyi, said the newly introduced vaccine is a laudable initiative that is capable of protecting young children against pneumonia and other diseases, and disclosed that it is another strategy aimed at reaching every child at risk of pneumonia. He further called on stakeholders who are in the fore front of disseminating information on immunization and other health sectors to influence the acceptance of the newly introduced vaccine. Speaking at the launch, the Executive Director, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Ado Muhammad said by the time the nation achieves full time national coverage of the vaccine, Nigeria will avert over 600,000 childhood deaths over 3 years. He assured that the Federal government will ensure the availability of the “lifesaving” vaccines for the Nigerian child towards achieving the Millennium Development Goal 4 (MDG4 L-R: Executive Director/CEO, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Ado Muhammad, Executive Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Architect Yomi Awoniyi and the Managing Director,GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Mr Lekan Asuni at the National Launch for Pneumonia Vaccine introduction in Nigeria by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency held in Lokoja Kogi State on 22nd December,2014. According to WHO Country Director, Dr. Rui VAS, “The introduction of PCV in Nigeria will ultimately improve the Child Health outcome of the country and accelerate the progress of the country towards achieving the MDG4 Goal”. The Country Director who was represented by Dr. Musa Omotosho said over 177,000 children under five years of age die from Pneumococcal diseases annually in Nigeria, and that “The introduction of PCV into the country EPI schedule will ultimately improve the health outcome of children in the country” http://perfectbrandsng.com/federal-government-introduces-pneumonia-vaccine-in-nigeria/

Monday, December 29, 2014

Olympic, Peter Okoye Fete Blue Santa Selfie Challenge winners

Nutricima Limited has rewarded consumers who emerged winners in the ‘Blue Santa Selfie Challenge,’ a Facebook competition which required participants to take a selfie picture imitating the pose of Olympic brand Ambassador, Peter Okoye. The winners were selected based on the numbers of likes for the selfie pictures on the Facebook page and the creativity of the pose. A total of 10 consumers emerged winners in the Blue Santa Selfie Challenge and they were rewarded with gifts and a special surprise visit by Peter Okoye who was dressed as the Blue Santa. Speaking on the reason behind this initiative, Category Marketing Manager, (Standard Milk), Nutricima, Mr. Raphael Agbaje, stated that Christmas is a season for caring and sharing, the brand decided to give gifts that will make the season memorable for its consumers. http://perfectbrandsng.com/olympic-peter-okoye-fete-blue-santa-selfie-challenge-winners/

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Microsoft Mobile To Reward Customers With 12 Cars

With the holiday right around the corner, Microsoft Mobile Devices and Services has announced the commencement of the ‘Lumia Christmas’ promotion. Aimed at making this holiday season special for its customers, it runs from November 24th to December 31st 2014 will see 12 lucky Lumia smartphone and tablet buyers drive away with a brand new Ford Figo car as well as lots of instant gifts. Joseph Umunakwe, General Manager, Microsoft Mobile Devices and Services, West Africa commented that “We are very proud of our Lumia smartphones and tablets and how it continues to connect more people to our suite of productivity services, whilst providing them a rich smartphone experience at amazing price points. This is our little way of rewarding our consumers, ensuring they close this year and begin the New Year on a high note.” He explained that “Everyone stands a chance of winning one of the 12 brand new Ford Figocars on offer. All they need to do is buy any Lumia smartphone or tablet and SMS keyword LUMIA your NAME and IMEI number to 38680” http://perfectbrandsng.com/microsoft-mobile-to-reward-customers-with-12-cars/

Friday, November 21, 2014

Yahoo To Acquire Brightroll For $640m

Yahoo is to acquire BrightRoll, the programmatic video advertising platform, for $640 million (£402.7 million) in cash. Following the deal, Yahoo will combine its existing desktop and mobile video advertising with BrightRoll’s programmatic video platform and publisher relationships. Yahoo said the acquisition will “dramatically strengthen” its video advertising platform, “making it the largest in the US”. BrightRoll’s net revenue is expected to exceed $100 million this year. The acquisition is expected to close within the first quarter of 2015. Marissa Mayer, the chief executive at Yahoo, said: “Video, along with mobile, social, and native, is driving a surge in digital advertising. “Here at Yahoo, video is one of the largest growth opportunities and BrightRoll is a terrific, strategic and financially compelling fit for our video advertising business. “This acquisition will accelerate the growth of both companies. We can help BrightRoll scale to even more advertisers globally and they can bring its tremendous platform offering to Yahoo’s advertisers. “The combination builds positive momentum for Yahoo’s broader display advertising business in 2015.” http://perfectbrandsng.com/yahoo-to-acquire-brightroll-for-640m/

Friday, October 31, 2014

Orijin: The Brand That Came, Saw and Conquered By Temidayo Badmus

Few years back, consumers of alcohol preferred local herbal concoctions in the name of bitters to well brewed alcoholic beer of international standard. The age-long tradition of beer consumption was on its way out of fashion. This is because consumers of bitters believe that it contains body purifiers, anti-malaria components and ingredients that strengthen the virility of men. Big brands were struggling for sales and manufacturers of smaller beer brands were closing business due to drastic drop in sales. Manufacturers of the local herbal contents were smiling to the banks on a daily basis. There was serious crisis in the marketing of most beer brands. Many big brands in the alcohol business battles with branding and rebranding of various new products while ‘herbalists’ who have taken over the alcoholic beverage industry continue to swell in numbers. However, it took the ‘divine’ intervention of big multinational brand, Guinness to rescue the market from the ‘hoodlums’ who were making swift business from the illegal supply of purported ‘poison’ into the market. After its entry into the market, the ORIJIN brand which registered the Orijin word and its associated logos as trademark, took the industry by storm, sending the dominant products out of the market and making an instant impact in the alcoholic beverage market. Before Orijin’s arrival mid last year, there have been products like Alomo Bitters, Kerewa, Kogbebe, Ibile, Durosoke, Dadubule, Action Bitters, Koboko, Ogidigba, Pasa Bitters, Osomo among others. Despite initial fears over the hygiene level of the products and the composition, their usual sex energy boosting appeal continues to lure customers to patronize them in mass. http://perfectbrandsng.com/orijin-the-brand-that-came-saw-and-conquered-by-temidayo-badmus/

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Management Crisis Hits Globacom ..Staffs Absconded Enmass

This is undoubtedly not the best of times for Mike Adenuga’s Globacom as key staffs of the company have absconded from duty largely because of lack of corporate governance. Findings revealed that the Group Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the company, Mohammed Jameel and the Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Sanjib Roy both Indians have absconded from the company because of what sources termed as Mike Adenuga’s ugly and very high-handed managerial style. Our investigations further revealed that in order to leave unhindered, the two most senior staffs of Globacom left the country without tendering their resignation letters. While the CTO left about five months ago, the COO left the country about five weeks ago Also, the Chief Information Officer (CIO), Mr. Cesar Camara, an African expatriate, has tendered his resignation letter. Unlike the Indians, who left without notice, Camara gave the statutory notice. It is however feared that in line with Otunba Adenuga’s well-known practice, he might not be given his severance pay. “In Adenuga’s companies, you either get sacked or you abscond. There is no room for niceties like resignation because if you do, you will definitely not get your severance pay. The usual practice is that as you get your salary, you take off without informing anybody”, a source said. http://perfectbrandsng.com/management-crisis-hits-globacom-staffs-absconded-enmass/

Monday, August 18, 2014

Etisalat Nigeria And IHS Sign Tower Sale And Lease Back Agreement For Nigeria Portfolio

Etisalat Nigeria today announced the sale of 2,136 of its towers to IHS Holding Limited (“IHS”) as part of a broader strategy to drive improvements in the quality of its network performance and to accelerate roll out of 2G & 3G coverage and new services to its customers. The transaction, the first by a major GSM operator in Nigeria, is expected to close later this year. Etisalat currently has the highest quality network in Nigeria and the partnership with IHS is designed to promote network sharing, ensure higher quality, sustain reliable mobile services, lower overall costs and also promote a cleaner environment through reduced diesel usage and increased investments in alternative energy solutions. Over the past 18 months, IHS has installed a large number of alternative energy sites in Nigeria. These investments in addition to further investments in its state-of-the-art Network Operations Centre mean that uptimes of over 99% are achieved on its owned sites. Under the terms of this transaction IHS has committed to investing a further USD100 million in the towers acquired, on advanced generators, efficient batteries and alternative energy solutions to reduce diesel consumption and improve efficiency of grid use. Matthew Willsher, CEO of Etisalat Nigeria, said: “Continued demand for mobile connectivity along with increased consumption of data requires reliable and effective networks that are also cost efficient for network operators. The decision to sell our passive infrastructure to an experienced commercial partner, such as IHS, is part of our strategy to increase network coverage and capacity which is already rated number 1 for quality of service by the NCC. http://perfectbrandsng.com/etisalat-nigeria-and-ihs-sign-tower-sale-and-lease-back-agreement-for-nigeria-portfolio/

GE Oil & Gas COO calls for More Investment in Infrastructure

Global infrastructure giant, GE has identified infrastructure deficiency as one of the challenges militating against the oil and gas sector in Africa. Chief Operating Officer of GE Oil & Gas for West Africa Uzo Nwagwu made the declaration at the 38th Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition of Society of Petroleum Engineers held in Lagos recently. Uzo Nwagwu said the obvious paucity in infrastructure on the continent should be given immediate priority so that private investors could be encouraged to invest in the industry. “Infrastructural challenges continue to be a deal breaker in discussions so far; with respect to the inadequate gas and pipeline networks and lack of incentives to be able to invest in gas facilities by private investors.” With the projection that Africa’s population which is currently 820 million, will by 2025 increase to one billion, he said the time to improve on the existing infrastructure is now. His words: “the middle class is at 320 million; by 2030, we expect that to be about 420 million. By 2030, we’ll need additional 1000 new aircraft to transport people from point to point. With respect to power generation demands, it will grow at about 10 percent annually from now till about 2025.” For Africa to harness all the opportunities available, Uzo Nwagwu stated investors and companies like GE need to be on ground with a deliberate localisation policy hinged on local investments, technology and skills transfer as well as job creation. He said GE already employs over 500 employees in Nigeria alone with a commitment to invest $1billion in total in Calabar – $250million of which has been earmarked as capital expenditure for a multi-modal manufacturing and assembly plant in Calabar. When completed, this facility will help create at least 2,300 direct and indirect jobs. http://perfectbrandsng.com/ge-oil-gas-coo-calls-for-more-investment-in-infrastructure/

P&G, Awesome Communications’ Forum Educates Women In Marketing Profession

Women in marketing profession in Nigeria have been advised to give due priority to networking if they really want to succeed in their career. The former Managing Director of Africa Magic and Principal Partner of Biola Alabi Media, Mrs Biola Alabi gave the advice at the maiden edition of Women in Marketing Conference & Awards (WIMCA). The event, which held at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos was sponsored by the World’s leading fast moving consumer packaged goods (FMCG) manufacturers, Procter & Gamble (P&G) Nigeria Limited in conjunction with Awesome Communications. Mrs Alabi said for any woman in the marketing profession to succeed, the person must pay due attention to three basic principles – networking, courage/boldness and focus. According to her, these are ingredients aspiring woman-marketers must imbibe as innate character if they must succeed. “Networking is one of the most important things in this industry. If you can’t network, you can’t be in this industry. You must find a way to build your own circle of friends; you must build your own support group. Nobody is going to do it for you,” she said. She added that self development through reading, learning from others and being adventurous with knowledge acquisition are also essential prerequisites to attaining success in the industry. “You have to read any and every available materials relating to the industry. You have to pick interest in every marketing event in and around your world to keep yourself up to date always in order to be on top of your game; you have to learn. There is no other way to it”, she stated. http://perfectbrandsng.com/pg-awesome-communications-forum-educates-women-in-marketing-profession/

Osolo of Isolo applauds Promasidor’s CSR

In recognition of the enormous contributions of Promasidor Nigeria Limited to the Isolo community in the Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area of Lagos State, the Osolo of Isolo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Kabiru Kolawole Agbabiaka and his Council of Chiefs have commended the company for its outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) drives. Speaking during their visit to the Headquarters of Promasidor on Thursday; the Royal Father described Promasidor as a pace setter for others to follow in terms of CSR. According to him, Promasidor has successfully carved out a niche for itself with its exceptional CSR which is so impactful on all the people living in the community. Oba Kolawole therefore described the visit which is part of the plan to create awareness for the planned 10th year anniversary of his coronation as the Osolo of Isolo as a necessary thing to reciprocate the goodwill of Promasidor for its host communities. His words: “The community appreciates your corporate social responsibility campaign as the most excelled. I personally cherish what you have been doing for the community.” http://perfectbrandsng.com/osolo-of-isolo-applauds-promasidors-csr/

Intel and Microsoft co-launch tablet with Brian Computers …Launches the BrianTab iw10

Technology giants, Intel and Microsoft have partnered with Brain Integrated Systems Limited to introduce into the Nigerian market BrainTab iw10. The tablet is powered by Intel Atom processor and has the windows 8.1 with office 365 in built. “The BrainTab iw10 is designed to help people experience the power of Intel Atom processor and Windows 8.1 easily with the main objective to being to make work easy and play hard.” Said Chairman of Brain Integrated Systems Limited (BISL), Mr, Tunji Balogun. Country Manager, Intel , Bunmi Ekundare stated that the BrainTab 1w10 is a world class device which combines the technology of Microsoft and Intel. The device boasts of enhanced features including Intel Quad –Core 1.33-i.8 GHz Bay Trial –T processor, Intel HD Gen 7 graphics, 10 point capacitive touch screen, to make switching between favourite apps more fluid. It also has eight hours of battery life. Industry Information Communication (ICT) Technology stakeholders at the launch described the device As a novel innovation from an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in Nigeria. Also commenting on the BrianTab iw10 General Manager Microsoft, Kabelo Makwane said “The tablet is much more than an ordinary tablet. The Brian Tab iw10 Windows Tablet gives you the power of touch and exciting ways to share, play, create, interact and enjoy. All the great apps you need are in the Windows Store and you can surf the web with the touch-perfect Internet Explorer. The USB Ports lets you connect to external devices while your Microsoft Accounts lets you share your tablet with other users but not your personal information, helping you keep things separate.” http://perfectbrandsng.com/intel-and-microsoft-co-launch-tablet-with-brian-computers-launches-the-briantab-iw10/

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Microsoft Gears-Up Mobile Devices With Range Of Accessories

In a bid to enhance mobile phone users’ experience Nokia, now known as Microsoft Devices Group, at a media event in Lagos, Nigeria unveiled its range of colourful and portable mobile communication accessories tagged gears. The accessories include car chargers, wireless chargers, JBL speakers, power banks, coloured headphones, speakers, Nokia sensors treasure tags, Nokia wireless charging plates, wireless screen mirroring adapters, portable and affordable Bluetooth speakers with built-in mic, wireless charging stands, Nokia purity pro wireless stereo headset by monster, Nokia purity stereo wired headset, Nokia car holder with wireless charging capability, Nokia low cost wireless charging plates, and universal USB portable charger, amongst others. Addressing pressmen, Business Manager, Gear, Nokia West and Central Africa, Mario Okonya highlighted the unique functions of each gear and stated that they can be used with Nokia devices as well as other mobile device brands. “With our range of unique accessories, customers can actually experience the innovation we put in our devices either it’s a mobile phone or gear. Just like our mobile devices, the gears also come in different colours and are available at our authorized distribution outlet, Ematic Mobile Solution (EMS). http://perfectbrandsng.com/microsoft-gears-up-mobile-devices-with-range-of-accessories/#prettyPhoto

P&G is leading the race for increased American investments in Nigeria – Consul-General Jeffrey Hawkins … says Nigerian babies start their lives on P&G’s quality products

The United States Consul General to Nigeria, Jeffrey Hawkins, has said that Procter & Gamble (P&G) Nigeria Limited is leading the race for increased American investment in the Nigerian economy. Hawkins stated this while visiting the brand new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant of the company in Agbara Industrial Estate in Ado-Odo, Ota, Ogun State recently. Consul-General Hawkins who expressed satisfaction with the quality and standards of the manufacturing facility disclosed that the United States of America is in Nigeria, not only as one of world’s fastest growing economy and Africa’s biggest economy, “it is very clear that the United States is very much interested in Nigeria and the Nigerian market and economy as an investment destination. That’s why our government has been actively involved in driving more American investment in Nigeria. We continue to encourage American companies to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria and motivate existing American companies to increase their investments in the country. “Procter & Gamble Nigeria Limited is one American company that has consistently display confidence in the Nigerian economy and investment climate and has been at the forefront of increased American investments in Nigeria. It is also quite clear that American businesses, particularly Procter & Gamble in this case, is quite interested in the Nigerian market. As you can see, with this plant, Procter & Gamble has made Nigeria the hub of its business in this region,” he said. With about 6 million Nigerian babies been raised, Hawkins expressed that Nigerian babies start their lives on a comfortable note because they are weaned and raised on Procter & Gamble (P&G) products particularly the company’s range of quality diapers and other global renowned baby care products. According to Consular-General Hawkins, the importance of diapers cannot be overemphasized while raising babies. “I am a father myself, I know what it means to raise babies, so I know the importance of diapers and other baby care products” he said adding that “Procter & Gamble in particular very much understood the importance of establishing relationship with the customer early in life. Anyway, for a company with wide products range like Procter & Gamble, they understood that they need a relationship that will go a whole lifetime with the customer. And Procter & Gamble also understands that if you provide quality products at quality prices, you can keep that customer throughout his/her lifetime. It means that almost every Nigerian baby is already Procter & Gamble customers,” he said. http://perfectbrandsng.com/pg-is-leading-the-race-for-increased-american-investments-in-nigeria-consul-general-jeffrey-hawkins-says-nigerian-babies-start-their-lives-on-pgs-quality-products/

RMD, Aluwe, 32 Others In Glo New Campaign

Commissioner for Arts and Culture, Delta State and Nollywood big boy, Richard Mofe-Damijo and Sunday Omobolanle popularly known as Aluwe are among top Nigerian artistes recently signed to feature in a new campaign by Globacom. The new theme campaign “Go Ahead’ depicts the essence of the network and also communicates the dynamism of its services in voice, data and fixed lines. Others include legendary Chika Okpala, Zebrudaya alias 4:30 and his telly-wife, Lizzy Eveome, Ovuleria of New Masquerade series. Others are Bolaji Amusan a.k.a Mr Latin, Madam Ibidun Allison known as Amebo, an actress in rested television series, Village Headmaster and Madam Kofo Abiola who, as an actress, is popular for her accurate sculpting of sky-scraper headgears. Also in the campaign are Saheed Mohammed (Funky Mallam), Morocco Maduka,Charles Awurum and Victor Osuagwu. The list also includes Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, another Fuji act, Saheed Osupa; former Super Eagles striker, Daniel Amokachi and King of Galala Beats, Daddy Showkey. Chief Executive Officer of Ovation magazine, Dele Momodu and Delta State both represent the upwardly-mobile new Aristocrats on the list. Four of the celebrities namely John Okafor (Mr Ibu) and Bishop Ime,(Okon Lagos) both comics in the nation’s theatre industry; Chinwetalu Agu, a veteran Nollywood actor and comedienne and television presenter, Helen Paul were designated as brand ambassadors. As brand representatives, the 34 celebrities are vested with the responsibility of positively motivating their followers from all strata of life not only to join the Globacom network but to recommend its products and services to others in their circles of influence. http://perfectbrandsng.com/rmd-aluwe-32-others-in-glo-new-campaign/

Thursday, July 17, 2014

NCDMB Commends General Electric For Technology Transfer

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), on Thursday, gave thumbs up to General Electric (GE) Nigeria for the kind of high-end technologies the company has brought into the country and for promoting capacity development among Nigerians. The NCDMB team gave the commendation in Lagos when it paid a visit to “The Garage” – GE’s innovation and manufacturing centre where aspiring makers and entrepreneurs can go to develop new skills and learn about advanced manufacturing technologies. Speaking during the inspection of the GE Garages, Mr Okey Egbuta, Manager, Projects and Operations, NCDMB said his Board had come a long way with the General Electric. According to him, the NCDMB and GE have embarked on a journey with a common goal of giving prominence to local content. He noted The National Content Development and Monitoring Board was encouraged by GE’s sustained efforts in prioritizing indigenous human capital in its operations across critical sectors in the country. http://perfectbrandsng.com/ncdmb-commends-general-electric-for-technology-transfer/

Guinness Nigeria Reward Distributors For Outstanding Performance

In recognition of the importance of trade partners, particularly distributors, to its continued growth, Guinness Nigeria Plc., held its 2014 Distributors’ Conference and Awards Night on Friday, July 11, 2014. The event was a platform for Guinness Nigeria to reward outstanding distributors, announce new incentives to all trade partners, as well as receive feedback on its brands and innovation pace from its trade partners. At the event, distributors from the company’s sales division across the country were rewarded for outstanding performances in volume sales and distribution of various products. Some of the award categories include: Divisional Highest Volume Award, National Highest Growth Award, and National Highest Volume Award. In his welcome address at the event, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Seni Adetu commended the trade partners for their contributions to the growth and success of the company’s business in the previous year. He noted that their individual efforts have helped the company to sustain its leadership position in the brewery sector. “We are excited to have this ceremony once again to show our appreciation to you our esteemed partners who have persistently pushed the Guinness brand to a great level. It has not been an easy journey but one way or the other we’ve worked together to achieve great results and we are proud to be partners with you and we hope to further entrench this rewarding relationships in the next year so we can achieve even better results” he stated. Prizes given to partners include plaques, certificates, tricycles, 10KVA generators, 1.5 ton Tata trucks, 3 ton Hyundai trucks and 6 ton Mitsubishi trucks among many others. http://perfectbrandsng.com/guinness-nigeria-reward-distributors-for-outstanding-performance/

Dell CR Reports Highlights Progress Toward Company’s 2020 Legacy of Good Goals

Dell recently announced key corporate responsibility achievements with the release of its Fiscal Year 2014 (FY14) Corporate Responsibility Report. The report provides the first progress update on the goals outlined last fall in the company’s 2020 Legacy of Good plan, a strategic roadmap for bringing sustainability and business objectives together, creating social and environmental benefits while enabling better customer outcomes. The plan outlines an ambitious, long-term strategy for Dell’s solutions, processes and people, and strives to measure the ripple effect of how its technology is helping customers and others to benefit the world. It contains 21 goals Dell is committed to reaching by 2020. Key goals include making Dell’s entire product portfolio 80 percent more energy efficient, its packaging 100 percent waste-free, and applying its technology and expertise to directly help three million youth in underserved communities. “As a private company, our entrepreneurial spirit and bold long-term goals are fueling new, innovative ways to solve problems and create positive change,” said Trisa Thompson, vice president of Corporate Responsibility at Dell. “I’m proud of the progress we’re making toward our 2020 Legacy of Good commitments and the resulting impact we’re having for our customers, team members, communities and the planet.” • Dell reduced the energy intensity of its product portfolio by 23.2 percent over the last two years – and that of its server portfolio by approximately 50 percent. Customers who purchased products in FY14 can expect to spend $449 million less on electricity to power their products over their lifetime compared to those purchased in 2012. The company’s 2020 goal is to reduce the energy intensity of its portfolio by 80 percent. • Dell’s Connected Workplace program helped the company avoid 6,700 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions last year, equivalent to eliminating nearly 16 million miles driven. The flexible work programs make it easier for team members to do their best work while saving the company an additional $12 million this year. Approximately 20,000 team members or about 20 percent of Dell’s workforce participate officially in the Connected Workplace program, bringing Dell almost half way to its goal of 50 percent global participation by 2020. An estimated additional 20 percent take advantage of the program tools and participate in an unofficial or occasional manner. The company’s flexible solutions earned Dell the No. 3 spot on Forbes’ Top 100 Companies Offering Flexible Jobs In 2014. http://perfectbrandsng.com/dell-cr-reports-highlights-progress-toward-companys-2020-legacy-of-good-goals/

Mandela’s Daughter: His Suffering Was Excruciating To Watch

In an exclusive interview with CNN, Nelson Mandela’s daughter Maki has talked about her father’s suffering in the final months of his life. Speaking to CNN’s Robyn Curnow – the only international journalist to broadcast live from Nelson Mandela’s funeral – Maki asserted that while his medical team treated him with dignity and respect, his death came as a relief after the agonising struggle his health had faced. “There were times I was telling the doctors I think enough is enough,” she said. “As doctors they had their duty to try everything up to the last moment, but for me as a daughter it was excruciating watching that.” Maki also talked about plans for the family to open Mandela’s grave to visitors in a year or so, with plans in place for a visitors’ center and memorial garden, where tourists will be able to walk around the grave and see it from a viewing point. http://perfectbrandsng.com/mandelas-daughter-his-suffering-was-excruciating-to-watch/

Friday, June 27, 2014

Promasidor Re-Iterates Commitment To Partnership With Thomson Foundation On Media Training

Promasidor Nigeria Limited has re-iterated its commitment to partner with the world’s longest established international media development organisation, Thomson Foundation, for media training. The company described the media as a very important platform for dissemination of information to different target audiences. Following presentation of awards to winners in this year’s Promasidor Quill Awards for journalists, the company promised that the overall winner, Kunle Falayi, will be sent to the London-Based Thomson Foundation for training on multi-media journalism. Mr. Olivier Thiry, Managing Director, Promasidor Nigeria who made the assertion said the decision hinged on the premise that the news media constitute an important sector in any economy whether developed or developing. According to him, the media can help disseminate specific messages to the target audience for optimum results as they provide publicity and exposure for not only news, announcement, event or request – but for group or organisation as well. For this, Thiry stated that Promasidor is committed to its partnership with Thomson Foundation as he disclosed that Falayi will this August in London join journalists from other countries for training by the Foundation. The Managing Director explained that gaining coverage in the news media by either any group or institution gives credibility as it has a lot to do with the thought processes of the public which monitor and “consume” the media each day. He stated that one of the most significant powers the media has is that of being able to shape opinions; pointing out that every organisation should actively seek out positive publicity through positive media coverage. However, he stated: “every group should also remember that any positive opinions generated from positive media coverage can be blunted or reversed by negative opinions generated through negative media coverage.” http://perfectbrandsng.com/promasidor-re-iterates-commitment-to-partnership-with-thomson-foundation-on-media-training/

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

SUNLIGHT BUBBLEMAN SPREADS DELIGHT ACROSS LAGOS

As part of efforts to spread light-hearted fun and happiness amongst the general public, Sunlight detergent, a leading detergent brand from the stable of Unilever Plc, has released the Sunlight Bubbleman on all major motorways in the Lagos Metropolis Accompanied by his gorgeous fairies, Sunlight Bubbleman is spreading the beautiful fragrance of Sunlight detergent across various traffic laden streets, at homes and offices; bearing free packs of the detergent amongst other exciting prizes. Sunlight Bubbleman tour is part of Unilever’s continued commitment to work together to create a better future everyday for Nigerians and make people feel food, look good and get more out of brands and services that are good for themselves and for others as well. People are expected to Hashtag #SpotTheBubbleman to participate in this thrilling experience to win great prizes, members of the public are endeared to like the SunlightNigeria Facebook page and follow @SunlightNigeria on twitter for real time location updates Sunlight detergent not only comes in two fragrant variants namely: Spring sensations and Tropical sensations, but is also available in a range of sizes from 26 grammes sachets to 2 kilogrammes packs. Gentle on all fabrics and colours, Sunlight assures its consumers of sensational cleaning and long lasting fragrance. http://perfectbrandsng.com/sunlight-bubbleman-spreads-delight-across-lagos/#prettyPhoto

Why PR Agencies Should Never Mark Their Own Homework- KAREN PRICHARD

PR agencies have too much control over their clients, and surprisingly enough, it’s not all to their clients’ benefit. It starts out justifiably, with professional communicators crafting the most compelling, clear and consistent messaging to express clients’ points of view on the issues that matter to their stakeholders in a clearly differentiated way. Journalists may dismiss this as spin and manipulation, but there are more winners than losers in a world of more effective communication. Having contracted out message and news development, many companies also instruct PR agencies to be their representatives in media and stakeholder relations. When a company speaks – particularly on corporate and financial issues – the person doing the speaking is very often a consultant not an employee. Experienced, senior and well-briefed consultants often do a good job in this role, although this practice is known to ratchet up the frustration among journalists who want a direct line into company thinking. This trend certainly appears to have increased in recent years, and many companies – and their external PROs – make it very difficult for outsiders to speak to anyone who actually works for the company. This is particularly true of the bigger, listed corporations – the very organisations who make most of the news, most of the time – as Guardian journalist Nick Davies points out in his book Flat Earth News. Where I believe PR agencies overstep the mark is when they started measuring and evaluating the impact of the work they do for their clients, when they start to mark their own homework. First they create the messaging, then they communicate it, and finally they assess how well it has landed. For me, there are a pretty un-magnificent seven reasons why this growing stranglehold is not in PR agency clients’ best interests; why media analysis conducted by PR agencies is a false economy. 1. Media analysis conducted by any organisation of its own work lacks independence and objectivity, 2. PR agencies often put their most junior (and cheapest) staff, armed with the most basic tools – and often no rigorous methodology – on the media analysis beat. Too often, it’s a menial task farmed out to interns. 3. PR agencies usually only measure outputs (traditional or social media coverage), not outtakes (how attitudes and beliefs have changed), let alone business outcomes. They’re not looking for business impact, insights or learnings of how the client’s communications outreach – or indeed the agency’s own performance – could improve. http://perfectbrandsng.com/why-pr-agencies-should-never-mark-their-own-homework-karen-prichard/#prettyPhoto

Monday, June 16, 2014

Dove Creates Father’s Day Film

Unilever launched an ad to coincide with Father’s Day for its Dove Men+Care range, which portrays the emotional role dads play in their children’s lives. The film, entitled “calls for dad”, features 27 moments where children of all ages reach out to their fathers for support. The one-minute film shows real fathers, none of which is played by actors, providing care for their children, from potty training to soothing them at night. A grown woman on her wedding day dances with her father and a man contemplates a scan of his unborn baby before calling his dad to tell him the news, conveying the concept that fathers are needed throughout a child’s life. A study commissioned by Dove found that three-quarters of dads say they are responsible for their children’s emotional well-being, but only 20 per cent of those surveyed felt this was accurately portrayed by the media. Marcus Buck, the assistant brand manager for Dove Men+Care at Unilever UK, said: “The video is designed to reflect on the moments that children call on their fathers for help, and show that these moments continue to occur throughout a father’s lifetime, no matter how old his children are. “We have chosen to launch the video online to reach our target audience in a relevant environment and ultimately drive consumer engagement.” The ad is currently on YouTube but will be shown on television “in some countries”. A spokesman for Unilever said it was designed to “live online and be shared” on social media. http://perfectbrandsng.com/dove-creates-fathers-day-film/#prettyPhoto

Mario Batali Teams With Ogilvyentertainment To Create New Shows

OgilvyEntertainment, the entertainment marketing arm of Ogilvy & Mather, and celebrity chef Mario Batali have formed ccMF Productions, a new company that will create food and lifestyle programming aimed at millennials. And in a twist for OgilvyEntertainment, the TV and online content won’t be branded. For Batali, ccMF is just the latest extension of a business empire that includes restaurants, books, a charitable foundation, food and kitchen products and a retail store. Batali is quite the familiar face on TV as well, appearing on Food Network’s reality competition Iron Chef and ABC’s daytime talker The Chew; he also owns Via Alta Productions, which produces food prep shows. The mandate for ccMF will be to address broad topics and explore their impact on what we eat and how we live, according to Batali. Content will range from five-minute video clips and reality shows to long-form documentaries. “It’s going to be relatively progressive, but we’re not preachy,” Batali said. “We’re interested in all the details, whether it’s climate change, overfishing, [the]Fukushima [nuclear reactor meltdown in Japan]. How the world affects what we do, how we do it, how we enjoy it and how healthy, delicious and nutritious things can be.” Batali added that the programming will delve into the human component of food and food production. “Things that relate to how food is affected, how people feed each other, how they nourish each other and how they share their love,” he said. Food shows that tell a global story aren’t exactly new—especially those hosted by celebrity chefs. CNN airs Anthony Bourdain’s well-rated Parts Unknown, which looks at food through the lens of a city or region’s culture, customs and history. What might differentiate Batali’s programming is who it targets. To reach millennials, ccMF will feature young faces on its shows (Batali plans to be on camera only 20 percent of the time) and will tailor most content for online and mobile consumption. Talent will include new chefs at Batali restaurants, YouTube stars, bloggers and other experts, said OgilvyEntertainment president Doug Scott. Batali chose OgilvyEntertainment as a production partner because they’ve successfully collaborated before, such as last year’s online video series celebrating the 100th birthday of Hellmann’s mayonnaise. “[Ogilvy] knows what’s out there, what feels fresh, what is fresh,” Batali said simply. http://perfectbrandsng.com/mario-batali-teams-with-ogilvyentertainment-to-create-new-shows/

Heritage Bank Ambassador, Zuriel Oduwole Launches New Project in Brazil

As the 2014 FIFA World Cup fiesta got underway in Brazil, much of the world’s attention would be on the 32 countries whose footballing talents are on display in the Samba country for the one-month duration of the competition. On the sidelines however, Heritage Bank’s brand ambassador and world acknowledged most influential teenager, Zuriel Oduwole, has arrived in Brazil to shoot her next documentary as well as launch her newest project on children education. Tagged #FollowTheBallForEducation, the project would take Zuriel to 6 countries across 3 continents. On her arrival in Brazil, the child education rights activist lodged at the impressive Sheraton Hotel & Resorts in Rio De Janeiro and the General Manager, Marcelo Moretti was glad to personally welcome his youngest VIP guest to the flagship property which is perched right on the edge of the South Atlantic Ocean. She was later invited for a photograph with the official FIFA Mascot and also made a brief appearance as special presenter for Brazilian TV. The events in Rio and around her travel would also be featured in her new documentary, currently in shoot and due in the fall season. http://perfectbrandsng.com/heritage-bank-ambassador-zuriel-oduwole-launches-new-project-in-brazil/#prettyPhoto

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Evelle Emerges Winner of Etisalat Sponsored Nigerian Idol IV

The Etisalat-sponsored Nigerian Idol Season IV has come to an end. This season, 23 year old Zibili Evelyn Ibhade also known as “Evelle” emerged winner of the competition, smiling home with the star prize of N7.5million, a brand new SUV and a mouth watering recording deal with Universal studio. The competition which began Januray 2014 lasted about 19 weeks. The Nigerian Idol train explored four cities in the quest for the most talented singer. Lagos, Benin, Calabar and Makurdi hosted the auditions that produced 100 contestants who were given passes to Lagos for a second round of screening. Congratulating Evelle on her win, Director, Brands and Communications at Etisalat Nigeria, Enitan Denloye said ”It has been great for us at Etisalat to be a part of this show, Evelle consistently put up a commendable performance on a weekly basis and the audience did not disappoint her as they voted accordingly. She indeed impressed everyone right from when she auditioned; it is indeed a well deserved win.” Obviously filled with joy, Evelle could not control her happiness; with tears rolling down her eyes, she smiled and laughed intermittently amid flashing lights from cameras as everyone present attempted to get pictures of her. Asked what she felt about emerging the 4th winner of the competition, Evelle noted that she didn’t expect to be announced winner. “I am still in shock” she said, “all this feels like a mirage to me. I know I gave my best all through the competition but it was a fierce contest. I want to thank every single person out there who voted for me from the beginning of the competition. It is because of their votes that I am being celebrated today, and I give God the glory for letting me win.” she said. On what she would do with the prize money, Evelle said she would invest most of it in her music career to ensure she does not leave the entertainment scene and also take part of it to her church for thanksgiving. http://perfectbrandsng.com/evelle-emerges-winner-of-etisalat-sponsored-nigerian-idol-iv/#prettyPhoto

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Nigerian’s Tea drinking Habit Is On The Rise – Onubogu

Drinking tea plays such a central part in human lives, it is such a universal phenomenon with millions of people the world over enjoying their tea on a daily basis, that it’s hard to imagine a world without tea and yet while the Eastern world has been using tea for more than 4500 years, for most of this time tea was unknown in the Western world. Tea was only introduced into the West a relatively recent 400 years ago. Discovered in China, tea has exerted a profound influence on societies and cultures throughout the world so that there are unique ceremonies in various cultures and most parts of the world have social etiquettes concerning the preparation and drinking of tea as well as social customs regarding how, when and where to drink it. Quenching African taste and passion for tea, Promasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of notable brands of tea, Top Tea recently launched four new variants of the tea into the Nigerian market. In this interview with Mr. Onyekachi Onubogu, Marketing Director, he spoke on the company’s efforts to inculcate the act of drinking more tea daily by consumers and new corporate projection of Promassidor in years to come. http://perfectbrandsng.com/nigerians-tea-drinking-habit-is-on-the-rise-onubogu/

WE HAVE AMBITIOUS INVESTMENT PLAN TO EXPAND P&G BUSINESS IN NIGERIA -MANOJ KUMAR-MD P&G

P&G as a global company is over 170 years old – this makes it older than most UN member countries in the world and certainly older than almost every multinational company. Indeed, worldwide, it’s the world’s leading manufacturer of high quality consumer goods. With over 300 brands sold in over 160 countries, 4.2 billion times a day P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. In Nigeria, P&G is 18 years this month and within this span of time, P&G has evolved into a company with a strong portfolio of leading brands such as Always Sanitary Pads, Ariel Detergent, Pampers diapers, Vicks Throat Drops, Gillette personal care products, Duracell batteries, Oral B toothbrushes and Bonux Detergent. In this interview the Managing Director, West Africa of the company, Manoj Kumar, revealed the secret of the company’s success and its reason for pioneering social responsibility to Nigeria community. Congrats on your 18th anniversary, how is the journey so far We have invested well over N10 billion ($87 million) in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. We started local production of our Always sanitary pads in 1993, expanded into producing Pampers diapers and Vicks throat drops in 1994. In 2002, we built a new Pampers Diaper factory to produce an upgraded Pampers product. In 2004, we commissioned an ultra modern unique Always Sanitary Pads line in Ibadan. In 2006, we commissioned a new world-class Detergent factory in Ibadan. It is worth noting that this factory is P&G’s first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa and I am proud to say that its Quality Assurance laboratory is judged as one of P&G’s best in the whole of Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. Also, over the past two years, we have further expanded production capacity across all of our Pampers, Ariel, Always and Vicks lines. We have a business office in Senegal and distributors across West Africa in countries such as Ghana, Cameroon and Cote D’ Ivoire and Nigeria has become our business hub for the entire West Africa region as we expand into all West African countries. At P&G, we are dedicated to supporting children-in-need through our global social responsibility platform, Live, learn & Thrive – focusing on the development of children in need between the ages of 0 – 13.At P&G we consider our people to be our biggest asset and in Nigeria we have grown to be leaders in technology transfer and capability building We employ about 1800 people either directly or indirectly in our general office, manufacturing plants, distribution, logistics, advertising etc. It is worth noting that 95% of all our managers are highly talented Nigerian men and women working here in Nigeria but also on international assignments at other P&G locations. We are dedicated to local employee development with a budget of over $l million per year for local and international training and on-the-job coaching. We have created over 120 new successful entrepreneurs with sustained training and marketing support in rural and semi-urban areas over the past 5 years. This is a very exciting time in P&G’s history in West Africa. Why is it exciting? … because we have a very ambitious investment plan to expand P&G’s business in this region. On a global level, Africa is a major focus for P&G and within Africa Nigeria is among the fastest growing markets. Its strong, dynamic and growing population – currently over 140 million people is an enormous source of strength and potential wealth. http://perfectbrandsng.com/we-have-ambitious-investment-plan-to-expand-pg-business-in-nigeria-manoj-kumar-md-pg/#prettyPhoto P&G as a global company is over 170 years old – this makes it older than most UN member countries in the world and certainly older than almost every multinational company. Indeed, worldwide, it’s the world’s leading manufacturer of high quality consumer goods. With over 300 brands sold in over 160 countries, 4.2 billion times a day P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. In Nigeria, P&G is 18 years this month and within this span of time, P&G has evolved into a company with a strong portfolio of leading brands such as Always Sanitary Pads, Ariel Detergent, Pampers diapers, Vicks Throat Drops, Gillette personal care products, Duracell batteries, Oral B toothbrushes and Bonux Detergent. In this interview the Managing Director, West Africa of the company, Manoj Kumar, revealed the secret of the company’s success and its reason for pioneering social responsibility to Nigeria community. Congrats on your 18th anniversary, how is the journey so far We have invested well over N10 billion ($87 million) in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. We started local production of our Always sanitary pads in 1993, expanded into producing Pampers diapers and Vicks throat drops in 1994. In 2002, we built a new Pampers Diaper factory to produce an upgraded Pampers product. In 2004, we commissioned an ultra modern unique Always Sanitary Pads line in Ibadan. In 2006, we commissioned a new world-class Detergent factory in Ibadan. It is worth noting that this factory is P&G’s first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa and I am proud to say that its Quality Assurance laboratory is judged as one of P&G’s best in the whole of Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. Also, over the past two years, we have further expanded production capacity across all of our Pampers, Ariel, Always and Vicks lines. We have a business office in Senegal and distributors across West Africa in countries such as Ghana, Cameroon and Cote D’ Ivoire and Nigeria has become our business hub for the entire West Africa region as we expand into all West African countries. At P&G, we are dedicated to supporting children-in-need through our global social responsibility platform, Live, learn & Thrive – focusing on the development of children in need between the ages of 0 – 13.At P&G we consider our people to be our biggest asset and in Nigeria we have grown to be leaders in technology transfer and capability building We employ about 1800 people either directly or indirectly in our general office, manufacturing plants, distribution, logistics, advertising etc. It is worth noting that 95% of all our managers are highly talented Nigerian men and women working here in Nigeria but also on international assignments at other P&G locations. We are dedicated to local employee development with a budget of over $l million per year for local and international training and on-the-job coaching. We have created over 120 new successful entrepreneurs with sustained training and marketing support in rural and semi-urban areas over the past 5 years. This is a very exciting time in P&G’s history in West Africa. Why is it exciting? … because we have a very ambitious investment plan to expand P&G’s business in this region. On a global level, Africa is a major focus for P&G and within Africa Nigeria is among the fastest growing markets. Its strong, dynamic and growing population – currently over 140 million people is an enormous source of strength and potential wealth. http://perfectbrandsng.com/we-have-ambitious-investment-plan-to-expand-pg-business-in-nigeria-manoj-kumar-md-pg/#prettyPhoto P&G as a global company is over 170 years old – this makes it older than most UN member countries in the world and certainly older than almost every multinational company. Indeed, worldwide, it’s the world’s leading manufacturer of high quality consumer goods. With over 300 brands sold in over 160 countries, 4.2 billion times a day P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. In Nigeria, P&G is 18 years this month and within this span of time, P&G has evolved into a company with a strong portfolio of leading brands such as Always Sanitary Pads, Ariel Detergent, Pampers diapers, Vicks Throat Drops, Gillette personal care products, Duracell batteries, Oral B toothbrushes and Bonux Detergent. In this interview the Managing Director, West Africa of the company, Manoj Kumar, revealed the secret of the company’s success and its reason for pioneering social responsibility to Nigeria community. Congrats on your 18th anniversary, how is the journey so far We have invested well over N10 billion ($87 million) in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. We started local production of our Always sanitary pads in 1993, expanded into producing Pampers diapers and Vicks throat drops in 1994. In 2002, we built a new Pampers Diaper factory to produce an upgraded Pampers product. In 2004, we commissioned an ultra modern unique Always Sanitary Pads line in Ibadan. In 2006, we commissioned a new world-class Detergent factory in Ibadan. It is worth noting that this factory is P&G’s first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa and I am proud to say that its Quality Assurance laboratory is judged as one of P&G’s best in the whole of Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. Also, over the past two years, we have further expanded production capacity across all of our Pampers, Ariel, Always and Vicks lines. We have a business office in Senegal and distributors across West Africa in countries such as Ghana, Cameroon and Cote D’ Ivoire and Nigeria has become our business hub for the entire West Africa region as we expand into all West African countries. At P&G, we are dedicated to supporting children-in-need through our global social responsibility platform, Live, learn & Thrive – focusing on the development of children in need between the ages of 0 – 13.At P&G we consider our people to be our biggest asset and in Nigeria we have grown to be leaders in technology transfer and capability building We employ about 1800 people either directly or indirectly in our general office, manufacturing plants, distribution, logistics, advertising etc. It is worth noting that 95% of all our managers are highly talented Nigerian men and women working here in Nigeria but also on international assignments at other P&G locations. We are dedicated to local employee development with a budget of over $l million per year for local and international training and on-the-job coaching. We have created over 120 new successful entrepreneurs with sustained training and marketing support in rural and semi-urban areas over the past 5 years. This is a very exciting time in P&G’s history in West Africa. Why is it exciting? … because we have a very ambitious investment plan to expand P&G’s business in this region. On a global level, Africa is a major focus for P&G and within Africa Nigeria is among the fastest growing markets. Its strong, dynamic and growing population – currently over 140 million people is an enormous source of strength and potential wealth. http://perfectbrandsng.com/we-have-ambitious-investment-plan-to-expand-pg-business-in-nigeria-manoj-kumar-md-pg/#prettyPhoto P&G as a global company is over 170 years old – this makes it older than most UN member countries in the world and certainly older than almost every multinational company. Indeed, worldwide, it’s the world’s leading manufacturer of high quality consumer goods. With over 300 brands sold in over 160 countries, 4.2 billion times a day P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. In Nigeria, P&G is 18 years this month and within this span of time, P&G has evolved into a company with a strong portfolio of leading brands such as Always Sanitary Pads, Ariel Detergent, Pampers diapers, Vicks Throat Drops, Gillette personal care products, Duracell batteries, Oral B toothbrushes and Bonux Detergent. In this interview the Managing Director, West Africa of the company, Manoj Kumar, revealed the secret of the company’s success and its reason for pioneering social responsibility to Nigeria community. Congrats on your 18th anniversary, how is the journey so far We have invested well over N10 billion ($87 million) in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. We started local production of our Always sanitary pads in 1993, expanded into producing Pampers diapers and Vicks throat drops in 1994. In 2002, we built a new Pampers Diaper factory to produce an upgraded Pampers product. In 2004, we commissioned an ultra modern unique Always Sanitary Pads line in Ibadan. In 2006, we commissioned a new world-class Detergent factory in Ibadan. It is worth noting that this factory is P&G’s first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa and I am proud to say that its Quality Assurance laboratory is judged as one of P&G’s best in the whole of Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. Also, over the past two years, we have further expanded production capacity across all of our Pampers, Ariel, Always and Vicks lines. We have a business office in Senegal and distributors across West Africa in countries such as Ghana, Cameroon and Cote D’ Ivoire and Nigeria has become our business hub for the entire West Africa region as we expand into all West African countries. At P&G, we are dedicated to supporting children-in-need through our global social responsibility platform, Live, learn & Thrive – focusing on the development of children in need between the ages of 0 – 13.At P&G we consider our people to be our biggest asset and in Nigeria we have grown to be leaders in technology transfer and capability building We employ about 1800 people either directly or indirectly in our general office, manufacturing plants, distribution, logistics, advertising etc. It is worth noting that 95% of all our managers are highly talented Nigerian men and women working here in Nigeria but also on international assignments at other P&G locations. We are dedicated to local employee development with a budget of over $l million per year for local and international training and on-the-job coaching. We have created over 120 new successful entrepreneurs with sustained training and marketing support in rural and semi-urban areas over the past 5 years. This is a very exciting time in P&G’s history in West Africa. Why is it exciting? … because we have a very ambitious investment plan to expand P&G’s business in this region. On a global level, Africa is a major focus for P&G and within Africa Nigeria is among the fastest growing markets. Its strong, dynamic and growing population – currently over 140 million people is an enormous source of strength and potential wealth. http://perfectbrandsng.com/we-have-ambitious-investment-plan-to-expand-pg-business-in-nigeria-manoj-kumar-md-pg/#prettyPhoto P&G as a global company is over 170 years old – this makes it older than most UN member countries in the world and certainly older than almost every multinational company. Indeed, worldwide, it’s the world’s leading manufacturer of high quality consumer goods. With over 300 brands sold in over 160 countries, 4.2 billion times a day P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. In Nigeria, P&G is 18 years this month and within this span of time, P&G has evolved into a company with a strong portfolio of leading brands such as Always Sanitary Pads, Ariel Detergent, Pampers diapers, Vicks Throat Drops, Gillette personal care products, Duracell batteries, Oral B toothbrushes and Bonux Detergent. In this interview the Managing Director, West Africa of the company, Manoj Kumar, revealed the secret of the company’s success and its reason for pioneering social responsibility to Nigeria community. Congrats on your 18th anniversary, how is the journey so far We have invested well over N10 billion ($87 million) in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. We started local production of our Always sanitary pads in 1993, expanded into producing Pampers diapers and Vicks throat drops in 1994. In 2002, we built a new Pampers Diaper factory to produce an upgraded Pampers product. In 2004, we commissioned an ultra modern unique Always Sanitary Pads line in Ibadan. In 2006, we commissioned a new world-class Detergent factory in Ibadan. It is worth noting that this factory is P&G’s first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa and I am proud to say that its Quality Assurance laboratory is judged as one of P&G’s best in the whole of Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. Also, over the past two years, we have further expanded production capacity across all of our Pampers, Ariel, Always and Vicks lines. We have a business office in Senegal and distributors across West Africa in countries such as Ghana, Cameroon and Cote D’ Ivoire and Nigeria has become our business hub for the entire West Africa region as we expand into all West African countries. At P&G, we are dedicated to supporting children-in-need through our global social responsibility platform, Live, learn & Thrive – focusing on the development of children in need between the ages of 0 – 13.At P&G we consider our people to be our biggest asset and in Nigeria we have grown to be leaders in technology transfer and capability building We employ about 1800 people either directly or indirectly in our general office, manufacturing plants, distribution, logistics, advertising etc. It is worth noting that 95% of all our managers are highly talented Nigerian men and women working here in Nigeria but also on international assignments at other P&G locations. We are dedicated to local employee development with a budget of over $l million per year for local and international training and on-the-job coaching. We have created over 120 new successful entrepreneurs with sustained training and marketing support in rural and semi-urban areas over the past 5 years. This is a very exciting time in P&G’s history in West Africa. Why is it exciting? … because we have a very ambitious investment plan to expand P&G’s business in this region. On a global level, Africa is a major focus for P&G and within Africa Nigeria is among the fastest growing markets. Its strong, dynamic and growing population – currently over 140 million people is an enormous source of strength and potential wealth. http://perfectbrandsng.com/we-have-ambitious-investment-plan-to-expand-pg-business-in-nigeria-manoj-kumar-md-pg/#prettyPhoto P&G as a global company is over 170 years old – this makes it older than most UN member countries in the world and certainly older than almost every multinational company. Indeed, worldwide, it’s the world’s leading manufacturer of high quality consumer goods. With over 300 brands sold in over 160 countries, 4.2 billion times a day P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. In Nigeria, P&G is 18 years this month and within this span of time, P&G has evolved into a company with a strong portfolio of leading brands such as Always Sanitary Pads, Ariel Detergent, Pampers diapers, Vicks Throat Drops, Gillette personal care products, Duracell batteries, Oral B toothbrushes and Bonux Detergent. In this interview the Managing Director, West Africa of the company, Manoj Kumar, revealed the secret of the company’s success and its reason for pioneering social responsibility to Nigeria community. Congrats on your 18th anniversary, how is the journey so far We have invested well over N10 billion ($87 million) in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. We started local production of our Always sanitary pads in 1993, expanded into producing Pampers diapers and Vicks throat drops in 1994. In 2002, we built a new Pampers Diaper factory to produce an upgraded Pampers product. In 2004, we commissioned an ultra modern unique Always Sanitary Pads line in Ibadan. In 2006, we commissioned a new world-class Detergent factory in Ibadan. It is worth noting that this factory is P&G’s first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa and I am proud to say that its Quality Assurance laboratory is judged as one of P&G’s best in the whole of Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. Also, over the past two years, we have further expanded production capacity across all of our Pampers, Ariel, Always and Vicks lines. We have a business office in Senegal and distributors across West Africa in countries such as Ghana, Cameroon and Cote D’ Ivoire and Nigeria has become our business hub for the entire West Africa region as we expand into all West African countries. At P&G, we are dedicated to supporting children-in-need through our global social responsibility platform, Live, learn & Thrive – focusing on the development of children in need between the ages of 0 – 13.At P&G we consider our people to be our biggest asset and in Nigeria we have grown to be leaders in technology transfer and capability building We employ about 1800 people either directly or indirectly in our general office, manufacturing plants, distribution, logistics, advertising etc. It is worth noting that 95% of all our managers are highly talented Nigerian men and women working here in Nigeria but also on international assignments at other P&G locations. We are dedicated to local employee development with a budget of over $l million per year for local and international training and on-the-job coaching. We have created over 120 new successful entrepreneurs with sustained training and marketing support in rural and semi-urban areas over the past 5 years. This is a very exciting time in P&G’s history in West Africa. Why is it exciting? … because we have a very ambitious investment plan to expand P&G’s business in this region. On a global level, Africa is a major focus for P&G and within Africa Nigeria is among the fastest growing markets. Its strong, dynamic and growing population – currently over 140 million people is an enormous source of strength and potential wealth. http://perfectbrandsng.com/we-have-ambitious-investment-plan-to-expand-pg-business-in-nigeria-manoj-kumar-md-pg/#prettyPhoto vvvvv

Brand Ambassador: Who Really Does The Cap Fit?

Everyday, consumers are exposed to thousands of voices and images in magazines, newspapers, on billboards, websites, radio and television. Every brand attempts to steal at least a fraction of a person’s time to inform him or her of the amazing and different attributes of the product or brand at hand. The challenge of the marketer is to find a hook that will hold the subject’s attention. In helping to achieve this, brand custodians sometimes deploy the marketing devise of using celebrity endorsement or brand ambassadors to achieve their goal. Thus, celebrity endorsement in advertisement and its impact on the overall brand is of great significance. In this process, the brand owner hires celebrities from a particular field to feature in its advertisement campaigns. These celebrities are called Brand Ambassadors. A brand ambassador is usually actresses, actors, sports players, singers and similar celebrities who symbolize a brand in a positive manner and carries the message of the brand out to the public. Brand ambassadors endorse products for which they get huge royalties. They also participate in marketing and launching campaigns of the product. The management board of a company connects its product with certain qualities of the celebrities figure. The promotional features and images of the product are matched with the celebrity image, which tends to persuade a consumer to fix up his choice from a variety of brands. Although this sounds pretty simple, but the design of such campaigns and the subsequent success in achieving the desire result calls for an in-depth understanding of the product, the brand objective, choice of a celebrity, associating the celebrity with the brand, and a framework for measuring the effectiveness. http://perfectbrandsng.com/brand-ambassador-who-really-does-the-cap-fit/

OMO Multiactive Mix: Just another Breakaway Brand?

According to the book “The Breakaway Brand- How Great Brands Stand Out” by Francis Kelly and Barry Silverstein, qualities of breakaway brands include being positioned for success, and connecting with its audiences among others. The emergences of breakaway brands are never new even in an under developed economy like Nigeria, but their success is what really lies in their ability to build the qualities highlighted by the writer of the above mentioned book. The detergent industry in the country is saturated with different products, either homemade or imported. Though some of these detergent brands died at birth, some are positioned to take the lead in the market place considering their years of existence. One of such detergent is Omo detergent from the stable of Unilever Nigeria Plc. OMO, one of the best stain removals in Nigeria recently marked its 50th year Anniversary with an event filled with glitz and glamour. Local production of OMO began in Nigeria in 1962 at the Lever Brothers Factory, Aba. The brand has grown with Nigeria over the years, and has made several improvements on its formulation to bolster its cleaning properties and ensure that it is consumers’ detergent of choice. Speaking at the re-launch and its Jubilee celebration, the Managing Director of Unilever Nig Plc, Mr Thabo Mabe; stated that OMO has had a unique history in Nigeria, and has over the years been the detergent of choice for numerous Nigerian families. In his words, “Unilever places a very high premium on the satisfaction of our consumers; that is why we never compromise on quality. http://perfectbrandsng.com/omo-multiactive-mix-just-another-breakaway-brand/

Ken Onyeali Ikpe Appointed MIPAN VP, Ada named Mediacom GM

Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN) has elected Dr. Ken Onyeali Ikpe as the Vice President of the association even as his agency, Allseasons mediacom promoted a seasoned media strategist, Mrs. Ada Adheke to the position of general Manager (strategy and Implementation). MIPAN, an association of registered media independents operating in Nigeria has continued to grow from strength to strength since it started May 1999 with seven member companies. Dr Ken Onyeali Ikpe who holds a Ph.D degree in Development Economics is the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Allseasons Mediacom Nigeria; a position he has held since 2005. The association will certainly benefit from his wealth of experience and leadership capacity. He cut his advertising teeth at Insight Communications Limited, where he was employed as an Account Manager in 1995. He worked assiduously and rose through the ranks to the position of Account Director in 1998. He joined Mediacom, a sister company in the Troyka Group as General Manager/Chief Operating Officer in April 2000. As head of the pioneer Media Independent company in Nigeria, his creativity and professionalism in media strategy, planning, buying and negotiations have endeared him to numerous clients, while his leadership qualities have made him a role model to aspiring young people. http://perfectbrandsng.com/ken-onyeali-ikpe-appointed-mipan-vp-ada-named-mediacom-gm/