Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Ambassador Deal: Where Is The Synergy Between Squadron And Ruggedman?

Nature has a peculiar way of stating its facts and one of such facts is the symbiotic relationship between a Shark and Remora. Sometimes called suckerfish, the Remoras’ job is to eat not just the crumbs from the Sharks food but to eat parasites surrounding the shark to keep it clean in turn the shark gives protection to its guest. Like Remora, a brand Ambassador’s characteristics should involve the ability to give good reputation to the brand he/she represents, not a controversial personality who will drag the name of the brand into mud. It is a common sight to see Nigerian celebrities who are making waves in their choosen field and with commendable reputations been used as brand ambassadors. Most recent of such signing is that of Korede Bello, Dija and Reekado banks as Glo brand ambassadors. The employment of Michael Stephen a.k.a Ruggedman as a brand ambassador to Intercontinental Distillers Limited, IDL brand, Squadron Dark Rum is generating huge controversy with some giving kudos to the initiative while others frown as it with the opinion that Ruggedman lacks qualities that tally with Squadron dark rum. http://perfectbrandsng.com/ambassador-deal-where-is-the-synergy-between-squadron-and-ruggedman/

Monday, July 20, 2015

Skye Bank’s “Reach For The Skye” Draw Millionaires Finally Emerge

One of Nigeria leading banks, Skye Bank Plc has elevated three lucky customers to the status of Millionaire with the banks’ ‘Reach for the Skye’ reward scheme which was held at the bustling Bodija Market in Ibadan, Oyo State on Thursday, July 16, 2015 The fortunate winners who were selected during an electronic draw conducted in the presence of officials of the National Lottery Commission are Damie Morrison of Garki Junction Branch in Port Harcourt, Innocent Oguabi of Katako Branch in Abuja and Donatus Okoro of Badagry Branch in Lagos. Some Four other customers were made richer with 250, 000 naira each while 10 others smiled home with 100, 000 naira each during the 1st round of the bank’s draw where the total prize money redeemed by the bank was Five million naira. Skye Bank’s Head of Retail Banking Group, Nkolika Okoli, said” the Bank would continue to encourage adoption of the savings culture by its existing and prospecting customers” The ‘Reach for the Skye’ Millionaire Reward Scheme is initiated to help assist customers to a better life. While encouraging Nigerians to take advantage of the reward scheme, Okoli said, ‘’Our target is to disburse 60 million naira before we conclude the draw and it is open to existing and prospective customers who qualify for the scheme by opening a Skye Save Plus account with a minimum of two thousand naira but their chances at becoming millionaires increase with additional deposits of the same amount. The public draws would hold every month for as long as possible baring in mind the capability of the Bank to sustain the Draws” http://perfectbrandsng.com/skye-banks-reach-for-the-skye-draw-millionaires-finally-emerge/

Friday, July 17, 2015

South Africa MTN, workers agree on deal to end 2-month strike

South African mobile operator MTN Group and union leaders reached a deal over bonuses on Thursday, ending two months strike by the workers. About 2,000 workers led by the Communications Workers Union (CWU) downed tools in May at Africa’s biggest mobile phone operator, demanding eight per cent pay rise and 16 per cent bonus payment. The CWU said it had agreed to an eight per cent bonus payment this year and 12 per cent next year. Both payments are guaranteed and not related to the performance of the company. “Members are expected to go back to work within two days after the signing of the agreement”, CWU General Secretary Aubrey Tshabalala said. The two parties failed to reach a deal on monthly wages, but the CWU has said it would accept MTN’s eight per cent offer if performance conditions are removed. MTN, along with its rivals in South Africa, is trying to contain costs in the face of tough competition that has hit profit margins. http://perfectbrandsng.com/south-africa-mtn-workers-agree-on-deal-to-end-2-month-strike/

Thursday, July 16, 2015

Top-More Ginger Ale Health Drink Berths by EECON Global

EECON Global Services Limited, a major player in the food and beverage sector in Nigeria, has introduced a wellness product called Top More Ginger Ale drink into the Nigerian market. Top More Ginger Ale is made purely from natural herbal supplements including ginseng and ginger extract which assist in the overall stimulation and anti-inflammatory effects of human body functions. Inclusive among the nutrients are Ginseng and ginger known to protect the heart and arteries, relief stress and help to control weight and blood sugar in the body. Engr. Nnamdi Unachukwu, Chairman of EEcon Global said the introduction of TopMore Ginger Ale health drink into the Nigerian market will re-ignite the waning culture of drinking ginger ale among health conscious Nigerians. Speaking at the media launch of TopMore Ginger Ale in Lagos at the weekend, “The fear of falling ill due to rising cases of diabetes, obesity and cancer is responsible for the decline in consumption of beverages especially fizzy drinks among Nigerians who are increasingly becoming health conscious. We decided to introduce Top More in this market because of its amazing health benefits. Ginseng extract in Top More is known to promote relaxation by reducing stress while giving energy and acting as a mental stimulant. “Another major natural herbal supplement contained in Top More is Ginger extract. Ginger is known to aid digestion and helps in reducing the risk of diabetes. It also contains antioxidant compounds which play a role in prevention of heart diseases” http://perfectbrandsng.com/top-more-ginger-ale-health-drink-berths-by-eecon-global/

Thiry identifies Tree planting as recipe for global warming

The Managing Director of Promasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of Cowbell, Onga, Toptea and Loya milk, Mr. Olivier Thiry, has said tree planting is a global phenomenon used to create a green environment that can protect our earth from the drastic effects of global warming. Thiry made the declaration in Lagos yesterday as the company collaborated with the Lagos State Government to mark the Tree-Planting Day. As part of the collaboration, Promasidor provided space within its premises where a tree was planted by the State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, assisted by Thiry. Speaking at the occasion, Thiry explained that the partnership with the Lagos State Government and Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) was to re-affirm Promasidor’s commitment to best global environment practices. “We are very proud to host and be associated with this noble project,” he said. He added that Promasidor operates within an eco-friendly environment as its principal alternate source of power is gas generators. To run these generators, he stated, is more expensive than diesel generators but they are confirmed to be environment-friendly owing to its less offensive emissions. His words: “In this regard too, all our extractor fans in the factory are wind-powered consuming zero electricity and our street lights are solar-powered. All these and more testify to our love and respect for the environment.” Governor Ambode, represented by Mrs Adetola Onisarotu, Director, Laboratory Services in LASEPA, said the collaboration between Promasidor and the LASG was aimed at renewing commitment to the preservation of environment, mitigation of global warming and its attendant climate change through annual tree planting exercise. http://perfectbrandsng.com/thiry-identifies-tree-planting-as-recipe-for-global-warming/

Etisalat PR account goes to Chain reaction

With information at our disposal, we can authoritatively revealed that the juicy public relations account of one of Nigeria telecommunication company, Etisalat is now in the custody of Chain Reactions. The Jaiye Opayemi’s led Chain reaction emerged the winner of the celebrated Etisalat’s Public Relations business which according to participants has been relatively fair. Etisalat threw the PR account out for agencies to proof their competency, granting contenders a fair playing field and equal opportunities. http://perfectbrandsng.com/etisalat-pr-account-goes-to-chain-reaction/

Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Monumental Banking Fraud: FCMB Exposed in Diversion of over 1 Billion Naira of Customer’s Funds

Is it true that the”evil men do lives after them?” Well the brazen conduct of this Monumental banking fraud has finally caught up with it! FCMB, one of the numerous new generation banks has been found wanting. Apparently Zumax Nigeria Limited has caught FCMB dipping its fat hands into its small Jar. Zumax Nigeria Limited took some time out of no time to look into the books of the Bank in question and compare it with its own. Reiterating that Financial Book Keeping is essential, either individual or corporate body, keeping your books can save you from heartaches. Here are few excerpts from the Hearing which was held both in Federal and Lagos High Courts. During the course of the hearing FCMB’s own documents have exposed self of diverting ₦250 million from its customer’s account, and then having done this; had the brazen cheek to complain to the customer that it was an overdrawn by more than the agreed limit of ₦200 million, charged extortionate interest in excess of ₦69 million on the resulting overdraft (all of the ₦69 million in interest was accrued in under a year), further debited the customer over ₦113 million in bogus charges arising from unauthorised and illegal Bankers Acceptance instruments initiated by the bank and then not content with this; Placed the customer in receivership when the customer disputed the bank’s demands that the customer should “repay” over ₦465 million! http://perfectbrandsng.com/monumental-banking-fraud-fcmb-exposed-in-diversion-of-over-1-billion-naira-of-customers-funds/

USAID Partners with Bayer Healthcare to make Microgyon Contraceptive Affordable

The world’s most widely used oral contraception; Microgynon® Fe is now available in local pharmacies at a significantly lower price after its recent launch in Sheraton Hotels Abuja. The product comes as a result of an innovative public-private partnership between Bayer HealthCare and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The reduced price enables middle-income couples to access a quality, affordable family planning product. The partnership is designed to make more affordable family planning choices available to women through the private sector and address the growing demand for contraceptives and the overall sustainability of supply. Family planning allows couples to plan their families as they desire, reduces the risks from unintended and/or high-risk pregnancies, and improves the health of mothers and their children by allowing time between pregnancies. With the introduction Microgynon® Fe in Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Rwanda, Ghana, and Kenya, the Bayer-USAID partnership will expand the initiative to several more Sub-Saharan countries by 2016. USAID Nigeria’s Director, Health, Population and Nutrition office, Dr. Nancy Lawenthal, emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in helping governments meet their Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). http://perfectbrandsng.com/usaid-partners-with-bayer-healthcare-to-make-microgyon-contraceptive-affordable/

South African Wines Tasting Fiesta Live In Lagos

Wines of South Africa (WOSA), producers and exporters are holding a Wine Tasting exhibition in Nigeria at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos this Saturday, July 18th, 2015, and this event happens to fall with the Nelson Mandela Day which is celebrated around the globe. The one day event which is opened to 18 years and above, designed to showcase quality wines from over 25 wine producers and over 200 wine brands from different regions in the Cape Wineland of South Africa. Guests are expected to trade, taste and attend the exclusive South Africa Wine course, which must be pre-registered. With Brad Coetzer (Wine Advisor to the Beverage Intelligence) leading the grand tasting event , the course is opened to only Trade businesses such as importers, distributors, hotels F& B managers, retailers, portfolio managers, gourmet and brand reporters and general food and beverage service provider. http://perfectbrandsng.com/south-african-wines-tasting-fiesta-live-in-lagos/

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Interswitch and PCI Partners on Global Payment Data Security

Interswitch teams up with one of the world best Data Security Council PCI on the improvement of data security globally. Interswitch transnational will work with the Council to achieve and improve payment data security worldwide through the ongoing development of the PCI Security Standards including the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), PIN Transaction Security (PTS) requirements and the Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS). Endorsed by American Express, Discover Financial Services, JCB International, MasterCard Worldwide and Visa Inc., the PCI Security Standards require merchants and service providers that store, process or transmit customer payment card data to adhere to information security controls and processes that ensure data protection. To enhance payment data security globally whilst embracing new technologies as they are develop. The Council relies on involvement of those across the payments processing chain, merchants and service providers, payment device manufacturers and software developers as well as financial institutions and processors. http://perfectbrandsng.com/interswitch-and-pci-partners-on-global-payment-data-security/

Announcing Dell Command Suite 8.1 with Expanded Analytic Reporting to Office 365 and Cisco Unified Communications Manager

Dell Software announced its newest Unified Communications Command Suite 8.1, with added analytic reporting for Office 365 for Exchange Online and Cisco Unified Communications. The Unified Communications Command Suite 8.1 is the market’s numero uno solution to offer analytics and diagnostics across both Microsoft Exchange and Lync. This will be expanding the organization’s capability to harnessing the valuable intelligence in its unified communications systems to increase user productivity, encourage adoption, and protect sensitive information also with increased ROI, and plan for future growth and migrations. Organizations today invest heavily in unified communications and thus have a variety of systems in place across the organization. They barely have insight into who its users are what platform and how it’s being used. These always results in lost productivity, increased support man-hours and millions of dollars in software costs and renewals. With the looming end of support for Windows Server 2003, increased adoption of Office 365, and Exchange 2016 on the horizon, organisations are considering multi-UC platform migration paths that will support evolving business needs and better prepare for future growth. UC Command Suite delivers accurate insights into the already deployed various UC communication platforms – including which offices, departments, and cities are using specific platform features – to help businesses determine where to increase investment and where to eliminate platforms not being used. These insights help organizations better prioritise, anticipate capacity planning for the future environment, and enforce better communications and data loss prevention policies as they plan for their next migration path. Additionally, these UC insights help drive the cross-platform adoption and usage to realize the maximum return on investment. http://perfectbrandsng.com/announcing-dell-command-suite-8-1-with-expanded-analytic-reporting-to-office-365-and-cisco-unified-communications-manager/#prettyPhoto

MTN Nigeria’s CMO, Bayo Adekanmbi , Wins PhD Fellowship Award

Bayo Adekanmbi, the Chief Marketing Officer of MTN has won a global inter-school PhD research competition; an initiative driven by the research and development units of many leading global companies, with a common objective of identifying new ideas that will shape the future. The fellowship focuses on academic doctoral research that solves real world problems. Bayo’s thesis, Algorithmic Pricing Optimization for the Emerging Digital/Social Business Model was adjudged the most industry-relevant PhD research work because of its profound theoretical construct and very simple real-world application. For attaining this laudable feat, Bayo has been awarded a grant and consequently requires dedicated time to further develop his proposed model with simulated market experimentation. He is expected to execute the field work of his doctoral research work in London and Mumbai. Bayo’s decision to participate in this prestigious Ph.D programme is driven by his desire to better understand how emerging trends in the converging digital space will shape future competiveness especially in the area of real-time analytics and prescriptive customer behavior. He will therefore proceed on sabbatical to enable him concentrate on his studies. http://perfectbrandsng.com/mtn-nigerias-cmo-bayo-adekanmbi-wins-phd-fellowship-award/

Diamond Bank Donates Vehicle, Communication Gadgets to the Nigeria Police

Speaking during the presentation of a Toyota Hilux van and sophisticated communication gadgets to the Command Headquarters in Lagos, Ayona Trimnell, Divisional Head, Corporate Communications of the Bank, stated that the donation is one of the ways that Diamond Bank gives back to the society. According to her, the aim of the donation is to contribute towards a better and well equipped Police force. She said: “We believe that a better equipped Police will do a better job at containing crime and providing a more effective security in the society. Therefore, ensuring that the police force is better equipped should be the collective responsibility of every citizen, we at Diamond Bank constantly strive to give back to the society in ways that impact positively”. Speaking further, she said that the donation represents Diamond Bank’s token of appreciation to the Police Force for their patriotism and selfless service to the society while at the same time encouraging them to do even better. http://perfectbrandsng.com/diamond-bank-donates-vehicle-communication-gadgets-to-the-nigeria-police/

Spectranet Introduces Amazing Offer, with Free Gigabytes

Internet service provider (ISP) Spectranet4G LTE, has announced an amazing offer of 30GB FREE for every new modem purchased on the network even as existing subscribers enjoy rollover of unused data to the next month. Speaking on the consumer promo, Mike Ogor, Spectranet’s Head of Marketing explained that the promotion is part of the company’s repositioning strategy to ensure that its customers experience the “new spirit of Spectranet”. “Based on our aspiration of bridging the communication gap as well as building and deepening relationships and connectivity among families, businesses, etc we have introduced this amazing offer to encourage Nigeria to access the internet at an amazing cost that will enable families and organizations be more active on the net,” said Mr. Ogor. With this offer, customers can own a high speed internet modem at a very affordable price. They can buy a modem at N16, 000 and get 30GB FREE or N12, 000 and get 5GB FREE. Unused data can be rolled over to the next month. Isn’t that a wonderful arrangement? Mr. Ogor added that, to make internet services affordable and easily accessible, the network has one of the most affordable data plans in the industry. “We are providing the best offer in the market: Our 20GB plan costs only N7000 per month while the night N6, 000 monthly data plan allows 40 GB translating only N150/GB. http://perfectbrandsng.com/spectranet-introduces-amazing-offer-with-free-gigabytes/

Harpic Unveils New ALL-IN-ONE toilet Solution, Picks Helen Paul as Brand Ambassador

Reinstating its commitment in the hygiene and home care segment, Harpic tripled its powered impact with a new campaign tagged “Harpic All in One”. To this end, a new Television Commercial (TVC) and a new Brand Ambassador has equally been unveiled to flag-off the new campaign. This is expected to give the much needed impetus to the brand and campaign as it new Harpic All-In-One challenges our traditional cleaning methods. The Brand Ambassador, delectable comedienne, Helen Paul will be actively involved in this new campaign with her “baby-soprano” voice as she stared in the new TVC. Speaking at a media conference in Ikeja, Lagos where the new TVC and The brand Ambassador were unveiled, Reckitt Benckiser’s Marketing Director -West Africa, Mr. Oguzhan Silivrili revealed that the main goal of the new campaign was to enlighten consumers on the superiority of Harpic over traditional toilet cleaning techniques. In the words of Silivrili, “we know that consumers need products that can remove tough stains, kill germs and freshen up their toilets. They will now realize they can conserve their cash for other things since they do not need to buy three different products for their toilets. Now, they can get all they need in Harpic- “All in One product”. http://perfectbrandsng.com/harpic-unveils-new-all-in-one-toilet-solution-picks-helen-paul-as-brand-ambassador/

Friday, July 10, 2015

NB Plc Manager Gives Reason For Maltina Teacher’s Award Extension

A teacher is likening to a compass that activates the magnets of curiosity, knowledge, and wisdom in the pupils but unfortunately many of them are neglected either by the government or the society. In celebrating teachers, Nigeria leading brewing outfit, Nigeria Breweries Plc is staging a first of its kind initiative to honour great teachers who spent time helping others learn about themselves and the world. The initiate which has been on for months has been extended for others to participate. Speaking at press briefing held few days ago, the CSR/Sustainability Manager of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Emete Tonukari disclosed why the organization has given a new deadline for teachers across the country to submit their entries for the Maltina Teacher-of-the-Year Awards. According to her, the deadline for submission of entries is now Friday, July 24th, 2015; a three-week extension from its earlier June 30th deadline.

Thursday, July 9, 2015

Peter Ndegwa Becomes Guinness Nigeria Managing Director

Guinness Nigeria Plc, a subsidiary of Diageo Plc, has announced that Peter Ndegwa will assume the post of the managing director of the company with effect from July, 1, 2015. Peter Ndegwa, who is currently Managing Director of Guinness Ghana Breweries Limited replaces John O’Keeffe, the former MD. Soren Lauridsen, who was previously announced as O’Keeffe’s replacement, has decided to leave his position due to personal, family related reasons effective end of June. Ndegwa holds an MBA from the London Business School and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Nairobi and is also a qualified accountant. He has over 10 years working experience in East Africa and the United Kingdom with the global accountancy and consulting firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers. Ndegwa joined Diageo in 2004 in East Africa as Strategy Director for East Africa Breweries Limited, a Diageo’s subsidiary. He was then appointed Sales Director in 2006 and Group Finance Director in 2008. EABL is a high profile £1.8 billion market capitalisation locally listed business with a turnover of £470 million and 1, 500 employees. Ndegwa was appointed Managing Director of Guinness Ghana Breweries Limited in 2011 with end to end (supply and demand) accountability for the P&L and commercial priorities of the business. He has overseen a complete reframe of the business despite some very tough external operating conditions – substantial currency devaluation, slowing GDP growth and high cost of doing business. Ndegwa is a highly effective and accomplished business leader with a proven track record in strategic and commercial leadership spanning over 20 years. He excels in orchestrating strategic change, driving organisational and team alignment and building momentum around business priorities and delivering superior business results. He leverages both his natural authenticity and strong diverse experience across a set of functional areas (strategy, sales, finance, consulting) to create impetus in organisations and teams. He has been particularly successful in creating highly engaged teams and organisations. Ndegwa is excited at the opportunity to lead a truly iconic business like Guinness Nigeria at this time and looks forward to working with the board, executives and management of the company to deliver its performance ambition. O’Keeffe will continue as a non-executive director of Guinness Nigeria and, as the Diageo executive responsible for Diageo’s Africa business, will continue to stay involved with the Nigerian business. http://perfectbrandsng.com/peter-ndegwa-becomes-guinness-nigeria-managing-director/

Thursday, July 2, 2015

Billionaire Peter Lim’s Company Acquires Ronaldo’s Image Right

Billionaire Peter Lim’s company Mint Media has acquired the image rights for football star Cristiano Ronaldo, the firm announced on Monday (Jun 29). Under the deal, Hong Kong-based Mint Media will own and administer all of Ronaldo’s image rights, except for those related to his club Real Madrid, for six years. Ronaldo has an existing management contract, which will be retained by Mint Media, the company added. Image rights are the proprietary rights a person has in his or her image, akin to a trademark for a logo or a company’s name, or a copyright for artistic work, said Mint Media. Mr Lim said the partnership with the Portuguese forward will provide further growth and exposure for Ronaldo’s brand in Asia. “Ronaldo is not just a great soccer player, he is also a very popular personality. I am confident that the Cristiano Ronaldo brand will continue to grow,” he said. “I have always admired Peter’s entreprenerial savvy and his ability to grow businesses,” Ronaldo said. “He is also a good friend whom I have known for a while. I believe he will be a good partner and a good value adds for my brand.” Mr Lim also has a stake in Spanish football club Valencia. http://perfectbrandsng.com/billionaire-peter-lims-company-acquires-ronaldos-image-right/

Mantrac Kick Starts Power System Campaign with Convenient Acquisition Plan

In order to achieve optimal power solution, Mantrac Nigeria, the authorized Caterpillar dealer has flagged off Power System Campaign for its consumers with the aim of providing cutting-edge power solutions that come with convenient acquisition plan. The unique offer comes with free labour cost for first service, delivery within Lagos, 20% down payment with installments for 24 months with as low as N78,000 per month added with special discounts. Speaking at the campaign flag off,Managing Director, Mr. Edmund Martin-Lawson,disclosed that Nigeria is one of the fastest growing markets in the World. As a result of the business needs, it is important for every business to have back up supply for power. The need for constant power supply for large, small and medium scale businesses as well as home consumption is on the increase. He added that“the result is that there is a growing competition from players in the industry, the competition is stiff across all segments of the market from the little sets popularly referred to in local parlance as ‘I better-pass-my-neighbor’ to the very industrial sets suitable for IPPs. To this end, Mantrac is offering the opportunity for easy and convenient acquisition of CAT generators through the Caterpillar Financial (CATFIN) scheme. CATFIN, officially launched in 2013 in Nigeria, in collaboration with Stanbic IBTC, is a financing solution that assists customers acquire Caterpillarproducts.Caterpillar products are very reliable and durable.” In his comments,General Manager, Power Systems, Ibrahim El Bassiouny, said Mantrac Nigeria, for which providing Power solutions is one of its core areas, is looking toassistbusinesses in general to keep their services running so that they in turn can satisfy their customers. “So we are reaching out to restaurants, hotel owners, schools/education institutions, even places of worship as they also need electricity supply.” He added. The offer is in collaboration with Stanbic IBTC Bank so that customers can stretch payment systems ina way thatwould be convenient for them, financially, to own a generator. The integrated purchasing solutions are backed by CAT Financial(CATFIN) which is tailored to meet various needs, with low interest rates. Mantrac Nigeria Limited (formerly Tractor & Equipment) has represented Caterpillar for about 64 years and remains the sole authorized dealer for Caterpillar products; includingthe full range of CAT construction equipment; Wheel Loaders, Skid Steer Loaders, Dump Articulated Trucks, Backhoe Loaders, Excavators, Motor Graders, Track-Type Tractors and BCP products. Moreover, Mantrac Nigeria Limited distributes Mining, Power Systems, Material-Handling & Warehousing equipment for a wide range of industries and applications. Mantrac Nigeria Limited is also the sole approved supplier of genuine Caterpillar parts, which are available at competitive prices. The company is part of the Mantrac Group which is the Caterpillar official dealer in nine countries including Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Iraq and in parts of Russia. Employs over 500 highly qualified and well trained professionals, it operates through a network of branches in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, Warri, Enugu, Benin and Ibadan, thereby ensuring greater accessibility, prompt and professional service and the fulfillment of our customers’ needs and expectations. http://perfectbrandsng.com/mantrac-kick-starts-power-system-campaign-with-convenient-acquisition-plan/

Media Reach Explains Partnership with Google

The West and Central Africa’s number one independent media specialist, mediaReach OMD has given further insight into its partnership agreement with Google Global Services Nigeria Limited on brand marketing. The agreement, which was consummated last Thursday at an event christened “Google Day” at the mediaReach office in Lagos, will see the two companies collaborate on survival strategies for different brands in the face of stiff competition not only in Nigeria but across the world. MediaReach said the effort will also result in building more digital capabilities, both within the Agency and within the marketing team of clients, while focusing on new products demonstration like Google cards, Google Now, Cromecast, etc. The Agency also explained that the partnership will take the relationship between the two companies to the next level on various Google products; and shall leverage for instance, on Youtube beyond advertising and creating content from the consumer context. It will equally stimulate “brand-connect in the area of Hygiene, Hub and Hero content which consumers would like to see coming from the brand. In addition, the agreement will strengthen the role of Digital as the line between Offline and Online is blurring because of the ease at which consumers now travel within the Physical and Virtual world. The objective of this effort, the Agency noted, is to strengthen the collaboration between the companies and harvest maximum benefits to their clients. Juliet Chiazor, the Country Manager of Google, said it is imperative for any organisation that will survive to develop a strategic marketing campaign that can stand out in the competitive market. She noted that customers are faced with a minimum of 2,000 marketing messages streamed on different communication platforms every day. Chiazor therefore said for any player to excel, its communication must be appropriate and target the right audience. She declared that television viewership is slowly declining as audiences are shifting online. Specifically, she stated that there is an increase of 60 percent of online video streaming that customers are faced with. “Brand building elements still entail awareness and emotional engagement just as the case with traditional marketing platforms”, she said. Based on this, she advised that video should be seen as an integral part of brand building and should be used more in brand communication. Corroborating her view, Tolu Ogunkoya, the Chief Executive Officer of mediaReach OMD averred that there are still many players who are undecided about the relevance of digital brand marketing despite its importance in today’s marketing communication. His words: “It is high time we decided to take active steps in the interest of our corporations”. http://perfectbrandsng.com/media-reach-explains-partnership-with-google/

Thursday, June 25, 2015

R&B Picks Havas Worldwide Chicago As Creative Agency

R&B Foods, Inc., makers of Ragu® and Bertolli® Italian sauces, has named Havas Worldwide Chicago Creative as their digital creative agency. In a statement released by the company, Havas Worldwide Chicago’s successful track record of modernizing iconic American brands has seen the agency chosen by Ragu and Bertolli Italian sauces to tell the brands’ stories. This includes amplifying their heritage of quality and authenticity in order to win back consumers’ hearts and minds and grow the brands’ share of millennial and Hispanic customers. “Since acquiring Ragu and Bertollilast year, we at R&B Foods have been very excited about the untapped potential of these iconic Italian sauce brands,” said Dan O’Leary, VP of Marketing, R&B Foods. “We’re excited to partner with Havas Worldwide to reinvigorate these beloved sauces by creating engaging connections to the brands for new generations of consumers.” Havas Worldwide will assume creative stewardship responsibilities for the brand, developing 360-degree integrated campaigns across TV, radio, print, digital, packaging and in-store promotion. The win follows a competitive creative review run by the R&B Foods’ Marketing Team in conjunction with Joanne Davis Consulting, New York. Speaking on the agency’s new assignment, Chief Executive Officer, Havas Worldwide Chicago Group, Paul Marobella said, “Our team couldn’t be more excited and grateful to do what we love and help reinvigorate these iconic heritage sauce brands. There are so many amazing stories waiting to be told about the quality of these delicious sauces and their rich heritage that we are anxious to co-create with the Ragu and Bertolli teams.” Havas Worldwide Chicago, a subsidiary of leading integrated marketing company, Havas Worldwide have a repertoire of clients including Citi, Craftsman, Cracker Barrel, DISH, Hefty, Reynolds and Sears. The agency specializes in partnering with brands that maintain a place in American culture and are struggling to connect with emerging consumers (millennia’s and centennials), or create relevance with the multicultural buyer. http://perfectbrandsng.com/rb-picks-havas-worldwide-chicago-as-creative-agency/

XLR8 Becomes Guinness Nigeria Corporate Brand Handler

Leading communications management consultancy, XLR8 has been appointed by Guinness Nigeria to handle its corporate brand. The appointment follows an extensive selection process that included an open pitch for credentials presentations followed by panel discussions. According to the Corporate Relations Director, Mr. Sesan Sobowale, “Throughout the selection process, we were impressed by XLR8’s industry and market knowledge and we feel confident that the organisation possesses the wherewithal to add value and provide support as we partner to achieve our business objectives.” Chief Executive Officer of XLR8, Calixthus Okoruwa enthused that XLR8 is both delighted and honoured to have Guinness Nigeria join its impressive roster of blue-chip brands. “Any organisation that has been able to build a brand and sustain its iconic status for more than 250 years deserves all the respect and adulation it gets,” said Okoruwa. “We are indeed, humbled by this opportunity to be of service to this formidable organization and will continue to seek to justify the confidence which it has reposed in XLR8.” With a solid track-record of market performance, Guinness Nigeria has been in Nigeria since 1960 and is a member of the Diageo Plc, the world’s foremost premium alcoholic drinks company. Its robust portfolio of products includes a wide range of premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including Guinness, Foreign Extra Stout, Harp, Malta Guinness and Orijin. XLR8 has since its founding in 2004, consulted for some of the world’s best-known and most respected brands across different industry sectors that include technology, banking and financial services, broadcast and entertainment, fast moving consumer goods, among others. “Guinness Nigeria is the latest addition to the very distinguished clientele for which we are eminently proud to be of service, and as always, we shall strive to ensure that our work speaks for us in the value that we deliver,” said Okoruwa. http://perfectbrandsng.com/xlr8-becomes-guinness-nigeria-corporate-brand-handler/

Airtel’s Advertising Account Finally Clinched

News flirting has it that the creative and media business of Airtel have been clinched. The creative splits between CentreSpread and Noah’s Ark, while the media business also splits between mediaReach and Brand Eye. The highly competitive business involves strategic, profile and financial pitches eventual converged and agreed; a mixture of experience and vibrancy informs Airtel’s decision both for the creative and media business. Chairman, Centrespread, Mr. Ayanwale thirty five years’ experience in the industry and the vibrancy of the less than five year old Noah’s Ark will be tasked to upscale the telecom top notch brand to excel in the new paradigm. Mr. Lanre Adisa, a visionary is vibrant, but certainly not exuberant compliments the tag teams. http://perfectbrandsng.com/airtels-advertising-account-finally-clinched/

Tecno Launches New WinPad 10, 2 in1 PC with Intel and Microsoft

According to Tecno Management, WinPad 10 is a 10.1 inch HD screen device and it is expected to offer consumers an entirely unique watching video and browsing experience. The device comes with a 5.0 MP Back Camera and 2.0 MP Front Camera that give a captivating interface, virtual quality and a smooth operating experience on its preloaded Windows 8.1, while running on Intel Atom Processor Z3735F, Quad Core 1.83 Ghz, a 32GB ROM and 2GB RAM. The broader ROM and RAM also offer space to users to store and run apps at the same time. The Tecno WinPad is more mobile than a laptop, more productive than a tablet and more affordable than an Ultrabook. It has dual “Boom” speakers with amazing surround stereo sound which offers high quality sound and brings a new experience of sound perception to its users, thus offering more than a triple package. Speaking at the launch of the device, the Vice General Manager of Tecno Mobile Nigeria, Chidi Okonkwo said the new WinPad will help to expand the company’s market and provide new opportunities to those who desire to work on the Windows Operating System. According to him, “We are indeed excited to bring this product to the market along with new Windows Operating System and Intel’s very fast Atom Processor. We are offering those whose lives are mobile a smart bouquet of efficiency. With a full charge, the user can surf the web, run different applications, watch movies and even play games at the same time. The Tecno WinPad offer users six hours of video playback time and 150hours of standby time.’’ Speaking in the same vein, the Consumer Manager, Intel Corporation Nigeria, Womiloju Olabanji described WinPad as an efficient device, adding that its Intel processor offer users a brilliant and faster experience. Olabanji noted, ‘’The Atom Processor Z3735F, Quad Core 1.83GHz is a fast and an efficient quad-core. Actually, the 4 cores it operates on, is why the WinPad would be very efficient for multi-tasking in comparison to dual core processors. The Pad, with these processors would be highly-beneficial to those whose businesses involve multitasking.” In addition, the Consumer Channel Group Director of Microsoft Nigeria, Mark Ihimoyan said that, “For full PC power and total tablet fun, there’s nothing like a Windows 2 in 1. Touch, click or type – you choose what fits your style and activity. All the great apps you need are in the Windows Store, plus you can play Xbox games, music and videos. Use Skype to video chat, take notes with Office, and get your photos and files from anywhere with OneDrive.” Tecno has in the past successfully launched smartphones into the Nigerian Market, releasing its first tablet running on the android Operating System into the market in 2013. The new WinPad 10 is expected to provide users with more options. http://perfectbrandsng.com/tecno-launches-new-winpad-10-2-in1-pc-with-intel-and-microsoft/

Sanofi Nigeria Reinforces Its Commitment To Hypertension Management Through New Treatment

With the introduction of APROVASC® , a fixed-dose combination treatment for the management of hypertension, Sanofi reinforces its sustained commitment to healthcare through the provision of affordable medicines that are tailored to the needs of patients. With APROVASC® , Sanofi now offers a wide range of treatment options for patients with hypertension. To better support the patients in the management of their disease, Sanofi continues with its access to healthcare ambition in the opening of diabetes and hypertension clinics in partnership with health authorities. The first clinic was inaugurated at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) on 29th January 2015. In Nigeria, about 28.9% of the population has raised blood pressure while about 82% are not aware of this disease condition. By 2030, up to 39.1 million people aged at least 20 years may live with hypertension1 if nothing is done to reverse the trend. People with uncontrolled hypertension are exposed to many complications including stroke, heart attack, kidney failure and problems with vision, which can be controlled by adopting healthy diets, lifestyle changes and, in many cases, treatment with medications. With over 90 years’ experience in development and manufacturing, Sanofi is a world leader in delivering quality, innovative solutions to meet the needs of patients. The APROVASC® range offers dosage flexibility that allows for individualized treatment. “By introducing a new antihypertensive treatment, Sanofi demonstrates its commitment to patients through improving access to high quality solutions in the field of hypertension management in Nigeria. APROVASC® introduction is another example of Sanofi’s engagement to always provide advanced and innovative treatments in response to patients’ specific needs with the highest efficacy and comfort. This unique combination is the result of years of development, clinical studies and safety proofing” said Abderrahmane Chakibi, General Manager, Sanofi Nigeria-Ghana. “Delivering innovative treatments and a full portfolio adapted to the needs of patients locally is at the core of what we, at Sanofi, have done for nearly a century. But medications alone are not enough. For many years, we have been supporting healthcare professionals in their daily practice through training and other tailored services. Through leveraging APROVASC® availability in Nigeria, Sanofi will continue to contribute to making the lives of Nigerian hypertensive patients healthier” Mr. Chakibi added. The introduction of new APROVASC® range, and the continual support of establishing clinics for the better management of the disease, is in direct response to the healthcare needs of patients with hypertension in Nigeria http://perfectbrandsng.com/sanofi-nigeria-reinforces-its-commitment-to-hypertension-management-through-new-treatment/

Award Winning Poet, Titilope Sonuga is Intel “She Will Connect” Spokesperson 2015

Research findings show that there are 25 per cent fewer women than men online in emerging markets. This is a clear indication of the gender gap that exists in the technology arena. To bridge this gap, Intel Corporation through its “She Will Connect Programme”, has continued to educate young girls and women on how technology can maximally contribute toward economic and social development across the world. This year, Titilope Sonuga has been appointed the official spokesperson of its 2015 “She Will Connect” program in Nigeria. Sonuga will use the platform to share her inspiring story of success and influence the lives of other women across the country in the pan-Nigerian initiative which starts this month and ends May, 2016. Titilope Sonuga is an award winning poet, writer, actor and civil engineer whose work has graced stages and pages across Nigeria and internationally. She has featured on stages across Canada and internationally, and was invited alongside world renowned poets Sonia Sanchez, Jayne Cortez, Yusef Komunyakaa, to perform at the 2011 Achebe Colloquium on Africa at Brown University. Titilope is the creator of Rouge Poetry and a founding member of the Breath in Poetry Collective. Titilope was the winner of the 2013 RISE (Recognizing Immigrant Success in Edmonton) Award for achievement in the arts and the NBCC (National Black Coalition of Canada) Fil Fraser Award for Outstanding achievement in the arts. Titilope performed a stirring inauguration poem at the swearing-in of President Muhammadu Buhari in May 2015; a historic moment for the country and the first time a poet had ever been invited to perform at a Nigerian inauguration ceremony. As the spokesperson, Titilope will visit states across the country. She will appear as a guest in some notable Radio programs and also interact with girls and women online. Working closely with enlisted Non-Governmental Organizations, Titi will participate in training girls and women across Nigeria during the one year campaign. Speaking on her role, Titi said she is glad to have been brought on board to use her talents to communicate the message of technology to girls and women in Nigeria. Expressing her delight on the new role Titilope said: “I am extremely excited to collaborate with Intel to give a voice to the She Will Connect program. I believe giving girls and women access by connecting them to technology creates a world of possibility for them and their communities. Through my personal journey, I have learned that having access gives you options and with those options almost anything is possible” Commenting on the initiative, Country Marketing and Public Relations Manager, Intel West Africa, Mr. Adim Isiakpona expressed Intel’s commitment to bringing positive change in the African Girl Child. Adim added that it was important to educate the girl child, affirming, “We at Intel believe that smart females are the equivalent of a smart world. We want to present Titilope as an icon of the endless capabilities in a woman when she is given the platform to express herself. We want a world where women’s lives are inspiring enough for a change.” The “She Will Connect” initiative has a goal to reach and train 5 million young women in Africa on Information Communication Technology by 2020 and it has successfully hosted several programs to introduce women to technology in Nigeria, through workshops and trainings. The program which works closely with NGOs, government agencies, and other local business partners features three key program elements designed to help girls and women take advantage of the many opportunities provided through technology and Internet access: digital literacy; online peer network; and content and resources. http://perfectbrandsng.com/award-winning-poet-titilope-sonuga-is-intel-she-will-connect-spokesperson-2015/

Etisalat Partners with Federal Ministry of Environment on 2015 World Environment Day Lecture … Reinstates Commitment to Environmental Protection and Sustainability

Nigeria fastest growing and most innovative telecommunications company in the country, Etisalat has reinforced its commitment to environmental protection and sustainability by sponsoring the World Environment Day (WED) Lecture which held recently at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja. Themed: ‘’Seven Billion Dreams, One Planet. Consume With Care’’, the event which was organized by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), is designed to encourage people to adopt more sustainable lifestyles and become change agents to protect and preserve the earth. Speaking on the significance of the World Environment Day, Ibrahim Dikko, Vice President, Regulatory and Corporate Affairs at Etisalat Nigeria explained that ‘’it helps us to identify solutions for re-engineering our culture in order to create a sustainable society in which everyone has an opportunity to live a healthy life. It is time to look seriously at what our appetite-for-more is costing the planet, our health, the future and the future of our children.” Dikko who was represented by Oluseyi Osunsedo, Head, Environment Compliance & Public Relations noted that since inception, Etisalat has been committed to the promotion and support of a sustainable environment through its Community Support Programs and Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives which are hinged on three platforms: Education, Health and the Environment. He noted, “We work in harmony with communities by supporting projects that promote healthy living and we have adopted some schemes which include, the progression from using 50 percent less plastic to produce SIM cards to 0 percent use of plastic and also the electronic recharge which helps to reduce waste generation.” World Environment Day (WED) is the biggest and most celebrated global day for positive environmental action. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972, WED is celebrated every year on June 5 and it is the principal vehicle through which the UN stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and encourages political attention and action. WED gives a human perspective to environmental issues, empowers people to become active agents of sustainable development and advocates multi-stakeholder partnerships in support of the environment. http://perfectbrandsng.com/etisalat-partners-with-federal-ministry-of-environment-on-2015-world-environment-day-lecture-reinstates-commitment-to-environmental-protection-and-sustainability/

Intel’s Effort To Bridge Gender Gap On The Internet

When compared to men, women still have lower access to the internet. A report commissioned by Intel on the access to, and use of the Internet in low and middle income countries indicated women are at a disadvantage. The report shows 25percent fewer women than men are online in developing countries. Intel has emphasized its commitment to bridging this gap with its Intel She Will Connect Programme. The Intel She Will Connect Programme, in recent time, has been in the forefront of educating young girls and women on maximum contributions toward economic and social development across the world. At the recently concluded capacity building workshop on ICT for women journalists in Lagos, Nigeria, the country Managing Director, Intel West Africa, Mr. Olubunmi Ekundare stated Intel’s dedication to bring about positive change in the African Girl Child. Stressing the importance of educating the girl child, he said, “Here at Intel, we believe, and I’m sure we all agree, that smart girls are the equivalent of a smart world. What we seek to do, more than encouraging you all, is to do your best in school and seize the opportunity to build a world where youth are inspired to be advocates for change.” The Corporate Affairs Manager, Mr. Babatunde Akinola, explained that She Will Connect programme aims to close the gap for girls in terms of access to the internet and digital literacy. He restated that the company will provide technical resources and expertise to deliver digital literacy training, online peer networks and gender relevant content to empower young girls and women in Nigeria. Technology and access to the internet is essential to women’s empowerment across the continent, and it is key to overcoming barriers such as poverty, illiteracy, and discrimination. She Will Connect hopes to have reached five million women and girls across Africa by 2020, empowering them to get and stay online and help others like them, thereby reducing the gender gap by 50%. http://perfectbrandsng.com/intels-effort-to-bridge-gender-gap-on-the-internet/

Valmont Premium Water Enters Nigerian Market With Trailblazing Sport Cap

Giant Beverages Limited, a Lagos based state of the art beverage outfit has introduced Valmont, a super-premium water brand, unique in both content and packaging into the Nigerian market. The new product is coming with a new trailblazing Sport cap offering which is the first of its kind in the industry. With this unique offering, the company, a wholly owned Nigerian company is bent on ensuring Nigerian brands join the league of internationally renowned brands. This innovation, according to the General Manager, Mr. Ayo Afolabi, is to ensure that this mark of quality – which comes in a blazing red colour -is stamped on the product from the onset to differentiate it from the pack and ensure it sets the pace in quality and packaging. “What we are doing is making a statement that Nigerians can produce quality product with packaging that can conform to the highest international standards. This is why our Sport cap will make the difference.” To this end, the new product, Valmont is positioned as a super-premium water produced to the best of international standards. “The water goes through our ultra-purification processes without being exposed to air until it enters our unique bottles, thus preserving its freshness and purity. It is called ‘Valmont’ for its strong, rich, luxurious and sophisticated background.” He added that Valmont is natural and produced to accompany fine food and luxurious lifestyle. Its transparent and minimalistic labeling further gives it an extra touch of class which is expected to appeal to discerning consumers who will stop at nothing to enjoy the best that life offers. In order to make maximum market impact to meet consumers’ varying needs, the product comes in, 600ml, 750ml (Sport cap) and 1.5L 100% recyclable plastic bottles. At a later point, it will also be available in750ml glass bottles sold only through high-end restaurants, hotels, international airlines and event outfits Apart from its product quality and packaging, Valmont boasts of widest range of sizes in the Nigerian market: thus providing water to suit different consumer needs. Giving additional information on the brand, Marketing Manager, Mrs. Bose Ogunyemi reinforced the earlier statement that Valmont’s Sport cap (750ml) “is the first in Nigeria and it is suited for on-the-go consumers because it is convenient and would not distract consumers’ from other activities such as driving, walking, etc. Our glass bottle – which will also be the first in Nigeria when it hits the market – provides gourmet water to accompany gourmet food in high profile hotels.” She stressed that Valmont “is a lifestyle brand that delivers much more than hydration to the consumer. Valmont has the red cap which signifies prestige in Nigeria; it also makes the brand striking and outstanding. That is the fundamental reason the brand promises prestigious quality and purity.” Appropriately positioned as a lifestyle brand, it is buoyed by symbolic attributes like sophistication, class, appeal and uniqueness. This wholly Nigerian owned brand with the historic Zuma Rock as its brand iconic symbolism promises to be a market leader as it hits the market. On why the Abuja situated rock formation was chosen as its brand icon, Mrs. Ogunyemi noted that “The intrigue of the rock is that it bears a ‘human face’ on its surface, and this for every Nigerian is an ultimate symbol of purity of nature. The freshness and natural purity of this cultural landmark is relatable to our Valmont. This is because our water is fresh and pure from start to finish. More importantly, it signifies that Valmont is a proud Nigerian brand.” With the tagline “Live Pure,” the brand, which is bottled to the highest standards, provides the refreshing essence that matches discerning consumers’ lifestyle wherever they are found. Whether at a luxury or quick service restaurant, home, work or on the go, Valmont delivers rejuvenation in the most convenient form. Giant Beverages Limited was set-up to focus primarily on the manufacturing of quality healthy alternatives to the traditional sugar sweetened carbonated beverages. With this mandate, it will fill a huge gap in the beverage sector, a gap for healthy and natural beverages. This gap is a result of the increasing awareness of the Nigerian populace about lifestyle and nutritional issues as it affect their health. It is bent on ensuring that Nigerians live healthy lives despite a life expectancy of 51 years for men and 53 years for women. http://perfectbrandsng.com/valmont-premium-water-enters-nigerian-market-with-trailblazing-sport-cap/

Ecobank To Roll Out Mastercard Payment Solutions

Towards increasing the acceptance and adoption of electronic payments in Africa, Ecobank Group has signed a landmark multi-country agreement with global payments technology company MasterCard to bring MasterCard’s payment solutions to more than 32 sub-Saharan African markets. According to a release by both companies, the initiative will see Ecobank issue MasterCard debit, prepaid, and credit cards to millions of its customers over the next 10 years. Ecobank will roll out innovative MasterCard acceptance solutions designed to expand the number of merchant locations that accept MasterCard payment cards on the continent. Commenting on the partnership, Albert Essien, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ecobank, says: “This collaboration with MasterCard will enable us to achieve our vision of contributing to the economic and financial integration and development of the African continent by rolling out convenient, accessible and reliable financial products and services to our customers. Specifically, the initiative enables us to extend our MasterCard acquiring capabilities at thousands of merchants across Africa, grow our e-commerce acquiring business, and expand our service offerings to retail and commercial customers in Africa.” Michael Miebach, President, Middle East and Africa at MasterCard, adds: “Bringing the benefits of electronic payments to markets across Africa and creating a world beyond cash is a primary focus for MasterCard. By collaborating with a leading pan-African financial institution such as the Ecobank Group with its extensive regional reach and established infrastructure, another successful step has been taken in ensuring access to safe, secure and convenient payments via MasterCard payment solutions.” The agreement will also see Ecobank roll out thousands of mobile point of sale devices to retailers in selected African countries, further boosting Ecobank’s current pan-African network. Mobile point of sale devices allow merchants to process MasterCard payment card transactions by connecting their smartphone or tablet to a secure card reader, enabling them to overcome infrastructure and communication challenges that may arise when using traditional POS devices. http://perfectbrandsng.com/ecobank-to-roll-out-mastercard-payment-solutions/

Mediareach OMD, Google Partner On Brand Marketing

The West and Central Africa’s number one independent media specialist, mediaReach OMD has aligned forces with Google Global Services Nigeria Limited over taking brand marketing in Nigeria to a new level. The alignment saw the two companies exchanging ideas on the survival strategies for different brands now that the players are faced with stiff competition not only in Nigeria but across the world. The agency, mediaReach OMD, and Google traded ideas on Thursday at an event christened “Google Day”, organised at the mediaReach office in Lagos. Addressing members of staff of the two companies, Juliet Chiazor, the Country Manager of Google, said it is imperative for any organisation that will survive to develop a strategic marketing campaign that can stand out in the competitive market. She noted that customers are faced with a minimum of 2,000 marketing messages streamed on different communication platforms every day. Chiazor therefore said for any player to excel, its communication must be appropriate and target the right audience. Meanwhile, she said innovation is at the heart of everything Google does as the company is aware of dynamism of different markets the world over. As a result, Chiazor said Google has different solutions that corporations anywhere in the world could use to achieve their goals in the target markets. Some of those solutions, according to her, are: Google Voice Search; Google Maps; Google Now; and Google Photo Sphere. She declared that television viewership is slowly declining as audiences are shifting online. Specifically, she stated that there is an increase of 60 percent of online video streaming that customers are faced with. “Brand building elements still entail awareness and emotional engagement just as the case with traditional marketing platforms”, she said. Based on this, she advised that video should be seen as an integral part of brand building and should be used more in brand communication. Corroborating her view, Tolu Ogunkoya, the Chief Executive Officer of mediaReach OMD noted that there are still many players who are undecided about the relevance of digital brand marketing despite its importance in today’s marketing communication. His words: “It is high time we decided to take active steps in the interest of our corporations”. Meanwhile, Patrick Gomes, the Chief Digital Officer of mediaReach OMD acknowledged that social media has a very important role to play in placing corporations ahead of competition in the market. His words: “At mediaReach OMD, we are aware of the new trend towards digital marketing as the future of brand communication. We already have channeled our process towards the development and our clients have started benefiting from the initiative.” http://perfectbrandsng.com/mediareach-omd-google-partner-on-brand-marketing/

Fraudsters Storm GTbank Branch, Rob Innocent depositors

At a stage in the financial institutions world where all hands are on desk to curb fraudsters and their gimmicks, one of Nigeria banks, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), fall short with its security operatives as fraudsters took advantage of innocent depositors’ right inside the banking hall. Information at our disposal revealed that at Gtbank Allen avenue branch in Ikeja on Friday 19, June 2015, fraudsters utilized the loopholes from Gtbank to defraud some customers. It was gathered that while depositors were on queue to make their transactions, a man who paraded himself as a staff of the GTbank approached some customers and requested for their bank Verification Number, BVN and also their cash with the pretense to ease the long queue. After collecting the money, eye witnesses disclosed that the man walked into one of the bank offices but never return. After waiting endlessly, the customers cried out only to receive the attention of hefty security operatives who led them out of the banking premises. One of the affected customers, who simply identified herself as Rukayat relates her experience. Her words “he claimed to be an official of GTB and demanded if I had a bank verification number, to which I answered no. he collected the money for ease of the transaction and gave me and others verification form to fill. When I was filling it, the man went to the counter to talk to a teller and walked into an office in the bank. That was how we are defrauded inside the bank and no one came to our aid but we’re all driven out”. “The money belongs to my boss. I have just been employed two weeks ago and I don’t know where to get a refund for her. Rukayat cried. This incident is a case of negligence with the Segun Agbaje led GTbank and height of insecurity to customers and their hard earned money. SMS was sent to Jide Sipe of Cooperate communication department of the bank and Cornell of Redgecko, one of PR agencies in charge of GTBank but none responded as at the time of filling this report. http://perfectbrandsng.com/fraudsters-storm-gtbank-branch-rob-innocent-depositors/

Friday, June 19, 2015

Intel, Others Partner to Deliver Affordable Technological Solutions to Small and Medium Businesses

Towards delivering affordable technological solutions and growing small and medium businesses in Nigeria, Intel Nigeria has joined hands with MTN, Microsoft, HP and Diamond Bank to drive an SMB targeted initiative. The SMB targeted initiative was announced Tuesday, June 9, 2015 in Lagos at a Technology Tour event to kick-start the initiative which would offer Nigerian SMB’s the best bundle of PC, Printer and Office for their day-to-day operations and also feature capacity building seminars, conferences and workshops to address other issues confronting them. Speaking at the Technology Tour event, the Marketing and Public Relations Manager, Intel West Africa, Mr. Adim Isiakpona described the initiative as an all-encompassing approach at solving reoccurring issues confronting small and medium businesses in Nigeria. Mr. Isiakpona said, ‘’Technology has done a lot at transforming businesses in advanced countries of the world and we believe we can replicate same in Nigeria SMBs which constitute over 70 percent of the country’s GDP.” Amongst several other benefits, the strategic partnership would afford SMB’s free listing on MTN Y’ello directory, free trial of MTN cloud services, free biz plus and MTN SME messaging with which they can connect with their consumers, while Diamond bank would make different financing options available to participating SMBs. The HP, on its part will make affordable laptops and printers available to SMB’s, all of which are powered by Intel and Microsoft chip set. http://perfectbrandsng.com/intel-others-partner-to-deliver-affordable-technological-solutions-to-small-and-medium-businesses/

Enyi Odigbo’s Casers Group Acquires Mawal Group

Casers Group and Mawal Group have announced a definitive merger agreement under which Casers Group acquires Mawal, the leading marketing communications network in French West and Central Africa. Enyi Odigbo, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Casers Group, explained that “the acquisition of Mawal demonstrates our commitment to prudently deploy resources that will deliver unassailable value to existing and prospective local and multinational clients”. Casers Group is now an unmatched solution for any multinational brand looking for worldclass service delivery throughout West and Central Africa – to either launch or extend within the region. “This strategic combination eliminates the need for businesses who require a regional marketing communications solution to seek partners on a country by country basis, which often results in disparate service levels, in terms of quality and resource deployment” said Odigbo. This merger has developed out of the successful DDB led partnership of Casers Group, Mawal Group and Innova DDB in partnering MTN, the largest mobile telecoms operator in the Middle East and Africa. DDB currently manages MTN in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Cameroun, Cote d’Ivoire, Republic of Benin, Guinea Conakry, Guinea Bissau and Congo Brazzaville. Joel Nettey, MD of INNOVA DDB and President of the Advertising Association of Ghana said “The opportunity to partner on MTN for the past 4 years throughout the region provided the learning curve needed to drastically reduce the teething problems associated with deals of this nature”. Reacting to this development, Bayo Adekanbi, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria said that “This is a commendable feat in Casers’ quest to deliver solutions to the increasing market opportunities, in West and Central Africa. Casers’ experience with MTN will be an added advantage and significant leverage in leap-frogging the challenges of the region, with speed, precision and effectiveness” With the acquisition completed and integration process well underway, the Founder and Executive Chairperson of Mawal Group, Mrs. Mareme Malong will retire but will continue to serve as adviser to the board. She said that she and her team members “are excited at this development because it is the coming together of like-minded Africans to form a more formidable entity that will outperform our individual operations. I cannot wish for a better retirement confident that I have left Mawal in the hands of partners I have come to trust”. http://perfectbrandsng.com/enyi-odigbos-casers-group-acquires-mawal-group/

Life Beer Doles Out N3m To 12 Budding Entrepreneurs In South-East

Life Continental Beer under the stable of Nigeria Breweries on Wednesday doled out N3m cash grant to 12 young entrepreneurs to boost their business ideas submitted as a proposal to the company.
It would be recalled that Life Beer under its current “Life Continental Beer Progress Booster Radio Project’’ had earmarked N12.5 million grant to boost 50 young entrepreneurs, who hails and are residents within South-East States. The states included: Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo. Presenting the cash grant of N250,000 to each of the 12 winners in Nigeria Breweries, Ama, Enugu, the Brewery Manager, Mrs Ethel Emma-Uche, urged the winners, who are among the beneficiaries of the N12.5 million, to utilize the funds wisely. “As you receive these cash grants today, we expect you to succeed in the business line you have chosen. “Make judicious investment of the money given to you and ensure that your investment is yielding returns and your business capable of making you an employer of labour as you trudge on in your business journey. “If you succeed in taking your business idea to the next desirable level, you stand a chance of winning more money (additional N250,000 to be won each by eight prosperous recipients of the initial cash grant). “Let me assure you that we will not be leaving you all to yourself on this journey. “The panel of experts that assessed and judged your business proposals will be monitoring your progress. “They will be there to mentor and provide valuable advice when necessary as we follow up on your progress,’’ Emma-Uche said. She noted that the project was aimed to empower 50 budding entrepreneurs, who have sound and workable business ideas; adding that these entrepreneurs from the South-East extract must be residing in the zone as well as attained 18 years. “Once again, I congratulate all our winners today and wish you success in your propose business endeavour. Life for Progress,’’ the manager added. http://perfectbrandsng.com/life-beer-doles-out-n3m-to-12-budding-entrepreneurs-in-south-east/

Thursday, June 18, 2015

History as Apple Buys a Nigerian’s ICT Firm for $1Bn

Apple has bought Chinedu Echeruo’s HopStop.com, The Wall Street Journal’s publication, AllThingsDigital reports. Founded in 2005, HopStop.com makes mobile applications for both iOS and Android that covers over 300 cities and that helps people get directions or find nearby subway stations and bus stops. Terms of the deal have not been disclosed as at the time of this report but HopStop has been compared to Israel’s Waze which was recently acquired by Google for $1 billion. Chinedu Echeruo, formerly an analyst at investment banks and hedge funds, founded HopStop in 2005. Echeruo is now chairman of the Board for HopStop. The move is seen as Apple’s plan to bolster its map offering especially given Google’s recent acquisition of Waze. A serial entrepreneur, Chinedu Echeruo grew up in Eastern Nigeria and attended Kings College, Lagos. He attended Syracuse University and the Harvard Business School in the United States and founded HopStop.com after working for several years in the Mergers & Acquisitions and Leveraged Finance groups of J.P Morgan Chase where he was involved in a broad range of M&A, Financing and Private Equity transactions. He also worked at AM Investment Partners, a $500 million volatility-driven convertible bond arbitrage hedge fund. He founded and raised nearly $8 million for his two U.S based internet companies: Hopstop.com andTripology.com. Tripology.com was acquired in 2010 by American travel and navigation information company, Rand McNally. True to form, Echeruo is working on yet another venture but this time, focused on small businesses in Africa. According to him, “there is no reason why every entrepreneur should have to reinvent the wheel every single time in all the countries in Africa. My idea is to essentially have one place where a budding entrepreneur can access a template for starting a business, and then customize it to suit their own situation; essentially, a business-in-a-box.” http://perfectbrandsng.com/history-as-apple-buys-a-nigerians-ict-firm-for-1bn/

Monday, June 15, 2015

PR Guru, Alima Attah Dies Of Cancer

PR Guru, educationist, MD of Sesema PR and host of TalkBiz on Smooth 98.1fm, Alima Atta has died. Alima, recently named one of Nigeria’s ‎100 most influential women died on Saturday June 6th after a battle with cancer. Alima Atta studied French and Marketing and had a successful career in Public Relations and Marketing for over 20 years and worked at MMD Marketing Communications and Anderson Soames in the UK before establishing her own PR agency in 2002. She was an inspiring woman who worked hard to get to the top Beautiful and charming Alima also worked in Gtbank corporate communications some years ago. Alima Atta has over eighteen years of experience in the fields of marketing and public relations. http://perfectbrandsng.com/pr-guru-alima-attah-dies-of-cancer/

UBA BOILS OVER N2 BILLION NAIRA ONDO STATE FRAUD UNDER AGAGU +Why EFCC Should Probe The Bank

As the Government of President Muhammadu Buhari begins transformation of troubled Nigeria’s economy, it is also pertinent that he looks deeply into the incessant fraud happening in one of Nigeria’s most fraudulent financial institutions, UBA. READ DETAILS OF PHILLIPS ODUOZA’S ROMANCE WITH GENEVIEVE NNAJI The current nefarious activity hanging on the neck of the Phillips Oduoza’s led-troubled financial institution is the multi billion naira money fraud perpetrated in Ondo State by late former Governor of the State, Olusegun Agagu. The report is messy, but we bring it to you here unedited as reported by the original writers…See below… One of the top staff at the Phillip Oduoza-led mega financial institution, United Bank for Africa, Mr. Lawrence Ehindero has been answering questions from detectives attached to the Ondo State Police Command, Akure to explain what he knows about some fraudulent dealings and illegal withdrawals from a fixed deposit account of N2billion belonging to the Ondo State Government According to sources, Mr. Ehindero who’s UBA’s Regional Manager, Ondo/Ekiti States has been questioned severally over the mega fraud and we gathered the police are closing in on the culprits and might be arraigned as soon as investigations are concluded. We gathered reliably that, some of the bank’s top staff have been operating an account belonging to the Ondo State government without prior knowledge of the State executive to the extent that, millions of Naira were withdrawn before bubble burst recently. READ ABOUT HOW ADULTERY WRECKED PHILLIPS ODUOZA’S HOME CLICK HERE Tracing the genesis of the monumental fraud that’s presently rocking UBA, almost to its very root, we gathered the money, about N2billion (Two Billion Naira Only) was lodged in two separate accounts with the bank’s Alagbaka quarters, Akure branch, in form of fixed deposit investment, by the immediate past governor of the State, Dr. Olusegun Agagu but because the transition between Dr. Agagu and Mimiko was not smooth and official, the incoming governor then, Mimiko didn’t really get wind of the investment thereby giving a leeway for the alleged fraud by the set of “smart bankers’ It would be recalled however that, the immediate past governor of the State, Dr. Agagu had to flee the State hurriedly owing to circumstances surrounding Mimiko’s emergence, and this did not permit the official hand-over, so many properties such as cars and other assets, belonging to the State were said to have been converted to personal use by the former governor and some of his aides. This office was told that, the bank’s management led by one Deolu Olugbenga (formerly the Regional Head), Kemi Johnson (former Business Manager, Akure) and co were said to have kept mum on the status of the investment when the new administration assumed office, and to the chagrin of the State governor, the bank was said to have bailed out the State by giving it a loan of N500m with heavy interest charges sometime ago before the bubble eventually burst. http://perfectbrandsng.com/uba-boils-over-n2-billion-naira-ondo-state-fraud-under-agagu-why-efcc-should-probe-the-bank/

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

Access Bank MD, Herbert Wigwe in Adultery Mess, Wife Threaten To Pack Out

A Famous quote from an Italian author, Natalia Ginzburg, says “No adultery is bloodless”. With information at our disposal, there might be bloody fight in the household of Access bank Managing Director, Herbert wigwe as he is allegedly involve in an adultery mess. The bank MD is claimed to be in ‘cloud Nine’ with a pretty Corp member who goes by the name, Eniola Ogunlade. It was gathered that the rosy relationship between the bank MD and the corp member is to the detriment of Mrs Chioma Wigwe, the legal wife, as her husband rarely come home this days. Those close to Eniola revealed that she’s been getting expensive gift from her ‘new catch’ not to talk of frequent travelling to the queen’s land. Those privies to reliable information claimed the relationship that is barely 6month old started when Herbert Wigwe visited Abuja on a facility tour to Access bank branches, Eniola works in Access bank Branch in Abuja. Immediately “the eagle sighted the carcass”, Mr Wigwe ordered his personal assistant to hook her up for him and immediately there was an agreement between the two, Eniola was transferred to Lagos. The love birds are said to be regular visitor to a guest house in Olabode George street in Victoria island, Lagos in Eniola’s 2012 Range Rover Evoque, one of several gifts from Mr. Wigwe. The adultery adventure has gotten to the ears of Chioma Wigwe with her watchdogs informing her of her husband escapades with the young lady, Eniola. Those close to the family alleged that Chioma is not taking it lightly with her husband as she confronted him seeking explanation for his action but it was said that Mr. Wigwe ignored her. It was also gathered that Chioma has threatened to leave the house if her husband continue with the relationship with Eniola. http://perfectbrandsng.com/access-bank-md-herbert-wigwe-in-adultery-mess-wife-threaten-to-pack-out/

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Eradicating Anemia: The Unilever, Nutrition Society of Nigeria kind gesture

A healthy woman is central to a healthy country; it is probably because of this that Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN) in conjunction with Unilever Nigeria has come up with a sensitization programme to highlight the dangers that Micro-nutrients and anemia portends for the women folk writes ‘Fisayo Ajibola and Babajide Okeowo. What is Nutrients-deficiencies and Anemia Iron deficiency which leads to Anemia is the most common and widespread nutritional disorder in the world. This is a condition in which the red blood cells or their oxygen-carrying capacity is insufficient to meet physiological needs of the body. The symptoms of anemic condition includes, fatigue, dizziness, weakness, drowsiness, shortages of breath and all these militate against active living and human productivity as iron is critical to learning process and energy for day to day activities. As well as affecting a large number of children and women in developing countries, it is the only nutrient deficiency which is also significantly prevalent in Industralized Countries. This deficiency affects more people than any other condition, constituting a public health condition of epidemic proportions. More subtle in its manifestations than, for example, protein-energy malnutrition, iron deficiency exacts its heaviest overall toll in terms of ill-health, premature death and lost earnings. Iron deficiency and Anemia reduce the work capacity of individuals and entire populations, bringing serious economic consequences and obstacles to national development. If you think this is scary, wait for this. Nigeria faces one of the largest burdens of micro-nutrient deficiencies with anemia the most common with a big impact on health of women and children, specifically, 49 per cent of women of reproductive age have anemia, 24.3 per cent have low iron stores and 12.7 per cent of them are iron deficient. These figures indicate that majority of the adolescent girls and women did not meet the iron requirements of 20 milligrams per day as recommended by the Food and Agricultural Organisation and the World Health Organisation. The above is the summation of The Nutrition Society of Nigeria. This is however raised serious concerns among relevant stakeholders led by the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, NSN, who said that iron is one of the most prevalent micronutrient deficiencies globally, with almost one of every two women of reproductive age being anemic in Nigeria. Unilever to the rescue With the danger that mico-nutrients deficiencies and anemia portends to the society, leading manufacturer of leading brands in foods, home care and personal care, Unilever Nigeria has taken up the gauntlet by sensitizing the public on this menace through the organization of a seminar to tackle the dangers anemia portends. http://perfectbrandsng.com/eradicating-anemia-the-unilever-nutrition-society-of-nigeria-kind-gesture/

Sahara Group’s Kola Adeshina Living Large! …Acquire Mansions, Goes Underground

Information filtering has it that the table has turned around on the celebrity status of Sahara group front man, Kola Adeshina. A report has it that the aide to President Goodluck Jonathan has gone underground for the fear of probe over his debauchery lifestyle. This development is attributed to multiple allegations against him which include his huge benefits in foreign currency as Goodluck Jonathan’s right-hand man and also a front for Sahara group. It was gathered that his illimitable riches overflow when he was contacted among those who worked for the re-election bid of President Jonathan. Though the bid failed woefully in the last election, Kola Adeshina was reported to have made more money and contacts while working on the project. Immediately after elections, Kola was said to have gone underground with the fear of being probed. His boundless wealth has made him a house owner in highbrow areas in the country including neighboring Africa countries. According to reliable sources, latest of his acquisition is the fascinating structure in Osborne foreshore, Ikoyi. The mansion was said to be lavishly constructed from exterior to interior, a masterpiece referred to as breath taking architectural design. http://perfectbrandsng.com/sahara-groups-kola-adeshina-living-large-acquire-mansions-goes-underground/

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Oil Swap Fraud: Aiteo, Atlantic Energy Faces Investigation

With the oil sector reputed to be highly corrupt, energy companies, Aiteo and Atlantic Energy are heading for a major investigation as the companies have been alleged to have unfairly exploited its Offshore Processing Agreements (OPA) and lifted crude beyond its entitlements from the upstream Strategic Alliance Agreements, SAAs. Aiteo and Geneva-¬based, Nigerian-¬owned trader, Sahara each signed a two–year OPA in November that took effect in January to deliver products against roughly three 950,000 barrel cargoes a month. A general rule of thumb equates approximately 120,000 tons of gasoline or kerosene to each standard cargo of crude. Contracts seen by Energy Compass outline a process requiring the counterparty to specify products and parcel sizes, delivery date range and discharge port within a week of loading the crude. Aiteo’s contract requires products to be supplied within two months of crude loading. Traders and NNPC insiders allege that by late March, Aiteo was more than 20 cargoes in arrears on the new deal. Analyzing these complex arrangements is not easy, but data obtained by Energy Compass for products shipped against January and February loadings indicates some shortfall and suggests Aiteo was casual in following contract process. For example, after loading two cargoes in January, Aiteo nominated 110,000 metric tons of dual purpose kerosene against one cargo but showed few plans to offset the other, listing only product delivery dates, with gasoline and vessels to be arranged later. http://perfectbrandsng.com/oil-swap-fraud-aiteo-atlantic-energy-faces-investigation/

Alibaba Secretly Invested In Amazon Challenger Jet.com

Chinese e-commerce powerhouse Alibaba Group recently invested in Jet.com, a soon-to-launch online retailer that hopes to challenge Amazon.com AMZN 0%, multiple sources confirmed to FORBES. Alibaba’s previously undisclosed investment came as part of Jet’s $140 million round in February, which was led by Bain Capital Ventures and joined by the likes of Accel Partners, New Enterprise Associates and others. The Montclair, N.J.-based company also raised about $5 million last month in a filing disclosed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. With promises that his company will offer cheaper prices than Amazon for products ranging from sporting goods to toilet paper, Jet’s founder Marc Lore has raised more than $225 million, a stunning amount given that his company has not yet unveiled its e-commerce website. Lore previously created Quidsi, the operator of online commerce sites like Diapers.com, before selling it to Amazon for $550 million in 2010. Lore declined to comment on Alibaba’s investment in his company. Alibaba also declined to comment. Alibaba’s investment in Jet gives it a piece of perhaps the most ambitious challenger to Amazon in years. Alibaba has a track record of investing in U.S.-based startups–among them ride-hailing service Lyft, online-shopping service ShopRunner and photo-messaging app Snapchat. It also launched online marketplace 11 Main in June, though that site has since received a tepid reception among American consumers. Those familiar with Alibaba’s investment strategy, which is led in the U.S. by former Liberty Media LMCA +0.62% executive Michael Zeisser, said that its backing of American companies gives it a direct window to Silicon Valley trends. Investments also allow it to develop easier partnerships with U.S. startups, among them a relationship with ShopRunner that allows American brands to sell directly to Chinese consumers. Following it’s $140 million round in February, Lore told FORBES that he didn’t “have any more plans to raise more capital.” “We’re using this money to invest in the value proposition to the customer,” he said in February. “It’s more dollars to invest across the board from product to market to infrastructure and operations.” In the past, Lore was quoted as saying that Jet would have to raise up to $600 million to develop a worthy challenge to Amazon, though he said more recently that those figures were taken out of context. “In order to build a really big business in e-commerce you’re going to need a lot of capital, but there’s no set amount of money,” said Lore. “If you think about it, Amazon early on in its existence raised $1 billion.” http://perfectbrandsng.com/alibaba-secretly-invested-in-amazon-challenger-jet-com/