Friday, March 27, 2015

Super Mario To Go Mobile As Nintendo Ventures Into Smartphone Games

Japanese video game maker Nintendo Co Ltd will venture into smartphone games, heeding calls from investors to boost revenue by taking iconic characters like Super Mario to players increasingly shunning its consoles. Nintendo, which already warned its annual operating profit would halve on weak console sales, said on Tuesday it was teaming up with online gaming firm DeNA Co Ltd to develop and operate gaming apps. The two companies will also launch later this year an online membership service accessible on mobile devices as well as Nintendo’s existing Wii U console and the portable 3DS. “This will allow us to build a bridge between smart devices and gaming consoles,” Nintendo President Satoru Iwata told reporters. “It doesn’t mean smart devices will eat away at gaming consoles, it will create an entirely new type of demand.” Investors have long called on Nintendo to shift its focus to mobile devices after losing customers to both smartphone gaming app makers and console rivals like PlayStation maker Sony Corp and Xbox maker Microsoft Corp. The company had so far resisted these calls, pinning its hopes on hit games such as “Mario Kart 8″. But in January, it halved its operating earnings target for the fiscal year through March to 20 billion yen ($169 million), citing weak 3DS sales in the year-end holiday season. Under the partnership, Nintendo and DeNA would buy 22 billion yen worth of shares in each other. As a result, Nintendo will acquire a 10 percent stake in DeNA while DeNA will acquire a 1.2 percent stake in Nintendo. Although Iwata didn’t disclose any details about Nintendo’s first mobile game, he said it would not be a hand-me-down from the company’s famed console titles. He also said Nintendo was currently developing NX, a new gaming platform, but declined to give further details. For DeNA, which grew from a startup launched in 1999 to a major online gaming company, a tie-up with Nintendo will help it regain momentum lost in the past two years as users moved on to more popular gaming apps. DeNA mainly develops games played on browsers. As a result of the capital alliance, Nintendo will become the second largest shareholder of DeNA after its founder, Tomoko Namba, who has a 13.1 percent stake. http://perfectbrandsng.com/super-mario-to-go-mobile-as-nintendo-ventures-into-smartphone-games/

Apple In Talks To Launch Online TV Service: WSJ

Apple Inc’s much-hinted-at TV service may soon become a reality as the iPhone maker is in talks with programmers to offer a slimmed-down bundle of TV networks this fall, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The service would have about 25 channels, anchored by broadcasters such as ABC, CBS and Fox, and be available across all devices powered by Apple’s iOS operating system, including iPhones, iPads and Apple TV set-top boxes, the newspaper said. Apple has been talking to Walt Disney Co, CBS Corp, and Twenty-First Century Fox Inc and other media companies to offer a “skinny” bundle with well-known channels like CBS, ESPN and FX, leaving out the many smaller networks in the standard cable TV package, the Journal said. Apple, which is aiming to price the new service at about $30 to $40 a month, plans to announce the service in June and launch it in September, the newspaper said. (http://on.wsj.com/1GOgcrv) Apple spokesman Tom Neumayr said the company does not comment on rumor and speculation. Fox and CBS declined to comment. Several media companies are considering joining streaming-only services, or launching their own like HBO and CBS, to attract young people who do not subscribe to traditional pay TV packages. But programmers also fear the packages could become so popular that they undercut current, more profitable deals with cable companies. In January, Dish Network Corp unveiled its long-anticipated video streaming service, named Sling TV, targeted at younger consumers who shun pricey cable and satellite subscriptions. Dish’s $20 a month service, the first from a distributor, will be available through Internet-connected devices such as Amazon Fire TV, Roku and Google Nexus Player for TVs, tablets, computers and smartphones and will include TV programming from ABC, ESPN and Maker Studios, Time Warner’s TNT, CNN, TBS, Cartoon Network and Adult Swim, and Food Network, HGTV and Travel Channel. Others like Sony are also rolling out competing services. Apple is not in talks with NBCUniversal, owner of the NBC broadcast network and cable channels like USA and Bravo, because of a falling-out between Apple and NBCUniversal parent company Comcast Corp, the Journal said. Apple and Comcast were in early-stage discussions last year to offer a streaming-television service that would allow Apple set-top boxes to bypass congestion on the web. (Reporting by Supriya Kurane in Bengaluru and Jennifer Saba in New York; Editing by Anupama Dwivedi) http://perfectbrandsng.com/apple-in-talks-to-launch-online-tv-service-wsj/

Cable Tv Monopoly; For How Long? Nigerians In Dire Need Of A ‘Pay-As-You-Go’ Billing!

We had been anticipating the game days before the D-day. The Super Eagles were to pounce on endearing preys that evening. Expected, the PHCN guys let us down but of course our generator sets were set to serve that evening. Not minding the deafening noise generated from a thousand generators within the small neighbourhood, we were all glued to our TV sets. One would really have thought that because my Pay TV is not an ATM machine or telecom network or power generating company, quality service would not be such an unaffordable luxury for them, but I was mistaken. Shortly after the game started, the unimaginable happened; the licenced cable TV I’ve subscribed to with my hard earned money went blank. Though this popular cable TV had been disappointing for years, but would they let the whole nation down on this vital day? Yes they did and nothing happened! Although this international brand cannot try a bit of what they do here in their home soil, sadly Nigeria has become a haven where they do unimaginably disgusting things and escape the necessary regulatory sanctions. While “Pay-as you-watch” is ideal in South Africa, it is yet to be implemented in the highly profitable market, Nigeria. Years ago, a leading telecom in this country would make us believe that per second billing wasn’t possible. Nigerians were swindled in their home country until an indigenous operator made per second billing a thing of the past. Consumer they say is king but that’s never true of a monopolistic market like the pay TV; producer is the king because he dictates everything in the market, price, class of people that patronize that market, when to sell and when not to sell and so on. This removes the power of choice possessed by every consumer, so you’re either forced to patronise poor service or get a better one from nowhere. For me, monopoly is our worst enemy. Agreed, pay TV market is highly monopolised, the market shouldn’t be a win-lose situation between service provider and consumer. It is apt to quickly remind this cable TV operators that their brand is a promise to the consumer to deliver a particular desired experience most of the time. They need be reminded that Nigerian consumers offer their trust and loyalty with the implicit understanding that the brand will behave in certain satisfying ways through excellent/quality service, appropriate pricing and promotion. More importantly, in our social media crazed world, venting out broken promises made to consumers has instant ramifications to the credibility and trajectory of their brand’s perceived value. If you’re operating ‘pay-as-you-go’ or ‘pay-per-view’ somewhere else and fail to implement such in Nigeria because our interests are not well protected by law, it is cheating and you are stealing from people’s hopes. It is troublingly that as consumers we’ve remained silent for too long. But for how long would our government remain silent over the misdemeanour of this cable TV? Where are the regulatory agencies? For how long would I continue to pay for poor services without compensations? For how long would I continue to pay for TV channel that keep running even when there is no electric power or my decoder is switched off? Its high time pay TV buyers cried out to all who care to listen. Let’s start putting pens to papers. Let’s start making loud noise for every silent dissatisfaction we experience from using this pay TV. One day, somehow and sooner than expected, willing investors would come. Then, we all would rather walk away to a better or best competition and part, never to meet with the ‘suffering and smiling’ situation that cable TV providers subject us to. Jide Ayegbusi is a Marketing Professional Twitter: @jideayegbusi http://perfectbrandsng.com/cable-tv-monopoly-for-how-long-nigerians-in-dire-need-of-a-pay-as-you-go-billing/

Laundry Show: The Stars And Clothes Shine As OMO Embarks On The Ultimate Showdown Challenge Across The Streets Of Nigeria

Omo, Nigeria’s top detergent brand for over fifty years, is embarking on the ultimate showdown challenge on streets across major cities in the country to prove that it in fact removes the toughest stains in just one wash. At these “Wash Demos”, members of the public will be invited to participate in the challenge and also express their observations as Omo Fast Action detergent goes head to head with competition to settle once and for all which brand is the fastest tough stain remover. Sarah Adoki, Unilever Nigeria’s Brand Manager for Omo said that the challenge will provide a firsthand experience for the public and help obtain vital and immediate feedback on the cleaning power of Omo Fast Action: “Anyone can come out with a product and make all sorts of claims about its capabilities. At Omo, we know and believe in the product we have and by staging these Challenges, we present the evidence of Omo Fast Action’s cleaning power to the public and let them pass their verdict.” To add pizazz to these Washes, Omo’s celebrity ambassadors and Nollywood stars – Funke Akindele, Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha and Ali Nuhu are billed to act as emcees and help feel the pulse of the people at select locations. Beyond the thrill factor, these celebrities literally lay their reputation on the line when they tell their admiring public what products can best meet their needs. Omo is doing a similar thing by staking our reputation of being tested and trusted for over fifty years: when we come to them saying, ‘Let us show you what Omo can do, no tricks, no effects’, we had better be certain of our claims – and we are.” The Ultimate Showdown Challenge is already running and will cover many major Nigerian cities. Details are available in Posters, Flyers and Newspapers & on www.facebook.com/myomonigeria http://perfectbrandsng.com/laundry-show-the-stars-and-clothes-shine-as-omo-embarks-on-the-ultimate-showdown-challenge-across-the-streets-of-nigeria/

Microsoft introduces Lumia 430: The most affordable Lumia smartphone Begins rollout in India, the Middle East and Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Eurasia

Microsoft Corp. on Thursday unlocked the promise of smartphone ownership for many more people with the introduction of Lumia 430 Dual SIM, the latest addition to its affordable range of Lumia smartphones. Built with the latest Windows Phone 8.1 software, a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor featuring a dual-core CPU running at 1.2GHz, and with Microsoft Office, Skype and OneDrive pre-loaded, the Lumia 430 Dual SIM was designed to help people achieve more at work, at play and on the go. Microsoft continues to expand its affordable smartphone portfolio, which now spans a diverse range of price points and capabilities, from the super-affordable Lumia 435 with Lumia Camera to the recently announced Lumia 640 and Lumia 640 XL, which come with a one-year subscription to Office 365 Personal. People can have their choice of Lumia device to suit their everyday needs and budget. Windows Phone 8.1 devices like the Lumia 430 Dual SIM will benefit from further innovation, with the ability to upgrade them to Windows 10 when the service debuts later this year. The Lumia 430 Dual SIM features a compact, durable and colorful design with a vivid 4-inch WVGA display that brings all the latest apps, games and videos to life. With Lumia 430, people can instantly achieve more every day, and they can use Microsoft Office and Outlook for work and personal productivity. They can access up to 30 GB of free cloud storage on OneDrive for safekeeping important content. People can experience the fun of video calls with Skype-integrated calling and a front-facing camera. Smart Dual SIM allows people to assign unique profiles to their SIM cards, such as “work” or “family,” to help them better manage daily communication. Favorite apps like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Candy Crush Saga and Instagram are available, with more apps and entertainment just a click away on the Windows Phone Store. Speaking on this, Corporate Vice President for Phones at Microsoft, Jo Harlow, says “People around the world have responded enthusiastically to our affordable Lumia range. We continue to invest in this segment to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy signature Microsoft experiences, regardless of budget. “The Lumia 430 Dual SIM continues our commitment to combining the right hardware, software, services and apps with the right price to give people a smartphone they can afford and be proud to use.” The Lumia 430 Dual SIM will begin rolling out in select markets in the Middle East and Africa, Asia-Pacific, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Belarus starting in April 2015, and in India toward the end of April 2015. It will be available in two colors: bright orange and black. http://perfectbrandsng.com/microsoft-introduces-lumia-430-the-most-affordable-lumia-smartphone-begins-rollout-in-india-the-middle-east-and-africa-asia-pacific-and-eurasia/

Ford Showcases 2015 Mustang at Maiden Eko Atlantic Polo Tournament

Guinness’ MD’s first official outing to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) … conducts closing gong ceremony

The recently appointed Managing Director of Guinness Nigeria Plc., a prime player in the brewery industry in Nigeria, Mr. John O’Keeffe, will on Tuesday 24th March 2015 lead his Executive Team and other officials of the company to the prestigious Nigerian Stock Exchange, where he is expected to conduct the closing gong ceremony. The gong closing ceremony is an event that is used to signify the end of the day’s trading activities at Stock Exchanges across the globe and an invitation to beat the gong is considered by many to be an honour and an acknowledgement of a corporate’s market standing and achievement. Mr. O’ Keeffe has remarked on the import of the occasion, “Guinness Nigeria has been invited to beat the gong to signify the close of the day’s trade and we are pleased that the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has deemed it fit to honour us in such a manner”. “Guinness Nigeria has been listed of the Nigerian stock Exchange since 1965 and we are the 7th largest company by market capitalization on the exchange. We are aware of the history that we have in this country and we are committed to implementing our strategic plans to grow within the market as signaled by major investments that we have made in areas of capacity expansion amongst others,” he added. Guinness Nigeria was established in 1950 and listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1965 and has such popular brands like Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, Guinness Extra Smooth, Harp Lager, Malta Guinness and Malta Guinness Low Sugar, Smirnoff Ice, Snapp, Dubic lager and Orijin under its belt. The NSE, a registered company limited by guarantee, was founded in 1960 and it is licensed under the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) and regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The Nigerian Stock Exchange is committed to adopting and encouraging the highest levels of international standards. http://perfectbrandsng.com/guinness-mds-first-official-outing-to-the-nigerian-stock-exchange-nse-conducts-closing-gong-ceremony/

50,000 Students Sat For NASSMAC First Stage Exam

Over 50,000 junior and senior secondary students sat for the first stage examination of this year’s Cowbell National Secondary School Mathematics Competition (NASSMAC) across the country on Saturday. Mr. Abiodun Ayodeji, Category Manager of Promasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of Cowbell Milk, disclosed this in an interview at Immaculate Heart Secondary School, Maryland, Lagos, one of the 184 examination centres of the NASSMAC in Nigeria this year. According to him, 600 students sat for the examination at the Immaculate Heart Secondary School alone with many other students allocated to the 18 other centres located in different parts of the state. Ayodeji expressed concerns about the mass failure the nation usually records in the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC’s) mathematics examinations. He said the urge to develop the students’ interest in the subject formed the basis upon which Promasidor initiated the concept of NASSMAC 16 years ago. He was impressed that the annual competition has increasingly spurred the interest of secondary school students in the subject in Nigeria as Promasidor records yearly increase in the number of participating students in the competition. The Category Manager said the Promasidor’s determination to rekindle the interest of students in the competition informed the improved cash prizes provided this year. The overall best student in the junior and senior categories will win N750,000; while the first and second runners-up will smile home with N500,000 and N250,000 respectively. Ayodeji also stated that teachers of the best students for the junior and senior categories will get N250,000 as those in the second and third positions will win N200,000 and N150,000. Poised to add value to the competition, he said Cowbell included a radio programme this year, which is already running on 15 stations pan-Nigeria. On the programme, he stated, a five-minute mathematics class is held on radio between Monday and Friday. According to him, topics discussed on the programme are in sequence with the school syllabus to help the participating students excel in their mathematics. Satisfied with the way the examination was conducted, the English Teacher of Caleb British Academy, Mrs Adaobi Muonagor; who led the school’s team to the examination centre, commended Cowbell for the initiative meant to improve students’ interest in the subject. She said the competition is a credible platform through which recognition is given to commitment to excellence in mathematics. http://perfectbrandsng.com/50000-students-sat-for-nassmac-first-stage-exam/

Employees Delighted As Promasidor Rewards Commitment

Employees of Promasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of Cowbell, Onga, Toptea and Loya Milk who have served the company for a minimum of 10 years were on Saturday honoured by the company. The employees, who have worked for 10, 15, and 20 years were honoured for their hard work and meritorious service to the company. Speaking at the Long Service Award event held at the firm’s Headquarters in Isolo, Lagos on Saturday, Managing Director, Promasidor Nigeria, Olivier Thiry, commended them for their commitment to service. He said their commitment over the years cannot be underestimated as it lubricates the strategic direction of the management. Thiry stated that the reward to the affected employees was just a token from the management to dedicated and committed employees who strive to place Promasidor ahead of competition in the market. His words: “This is just a gesture to reciprocate your support for Promasidor over the years. Without your invaluable commitment, there would not be Promasidor. The management considers today as a memorable day in the life of all the affected employees and in our corporate life”. The event was filled with fun, laughter and glamour as the affected employees were rewarded with gifts ranging from refrigerators, to electricity generators, and plasma TV sets. Other activities included a raffle draw which saw guests carting away gifts such as mini-ovens, pressing irons, rice boilers, sandwich makers and other cooking appliances. Satisfied with the honour given to them, the recipients of the awards expressed appreciation and love for the company, reiterating that if given another chance to choose a company to work for, they would again choose Promasidor Mrs. Mukaila Lilian Bisi being presented an Award for having served Promasidor Nigeria Limited for 10 years by Mr Andrew Enahoro, Head, Legal and Public Relations; at the Long Service Award ceremony held at the company’s premises in Isolo, Lagos One of the recipients, Lovejoy Oluchukwu, an employee who joined Promasidor as a young girl and was rewarded for having served for ten years thanked the company for celebrating her. In her words “I have always been in love with Promasidor. This is the first and only place I have ever worked (I joined in January 2004) and I started here when I was in my early twenties. They treat and respect all their staff well and are very safety conscious. Working here, I have undergone a lot of trainings from health, to stress management, and facility management training…they have a lot of facilities that help ensure that the staff work effectively. I never believed I could stay this long in a company but with all I have experienced, I tell my friends that I can work for this company without getting paid.” Lovejoy, who started off working in the production department, has served the company in various capacities ranging from volunteering to working in the Sales Department to working as a Receptionist, acting as the PA to the GM, and Office Assistant to the Managing Director, and currently functions as an officer in the Human Resources Department. http://perfectbrandsng.com/employees-delighted-as-promasidor-rewards-commitment/

ANSP Use Sports to Preach Against Election Violence

The Association of Nigeria Sports Professionals (ANSP) held another press conference in Portharcourt on Monday16th March 2015 with the presence of top journalists and representatives of able and disabled sports men, The press conference is in line with the upcoming rally of the association scheduled for 25th of March 2015 in Portharcourt tagged “Sports people against Election Violence”. It was in line with the last rally held in Gombe state by the same association, The Spokesperson of the organization Mr. Adesiyan Ayodeji stated that the president of the association Mr Bayonle Ahmed Arashi who is currently in the United States will arrive on time to be part of the rally, He will be coming with the necessary supporting materials and some interested partners for the rally. Mr. Adesiyan spoke extensively about the need for youths to be part of the rally he said “the Sportsmen of Nigeria are not cowards and that they are ready to fully participate in the elections”. He further told the people present that “Nigerians should understand that these politicians have houses and families overseas where they can be safe if there is post-election violence so no one should be used by any politician”. He summarily passed across the association’s president commendation for Nigeria’s commander in chief Dr. Goodluck Jonathan for cheques issued to the families of immigration job scandal but Bayonle Arashi insisted that the company that held the recruitment scam be exposed and the minister sanctioned accordingly. The association had two of its members (LUKMAN J. MOHAMMAD and ABDULJALAL A DAUDA) murdered last week in Gombe state where ANSP had their last rally, they are strong members of the association in the Northern region, Abdul was also an active member of the Civil Society Organization while Lukman Mohammad is a member of National Youth Council Gombe State Chapter. Both had a stronghold for ANSP in the Northern part of Nigeria but we lost them both and we are still grateful to God that we can continue to fight the cause they fought for till they died concluded Adesiyan.

Tara Fela-Durotoye, Audu Maikori, Opeyemi Awoyemi to Mentor Winners of Microsoft Mobile’s “From Passion to Empire” initiative

Microsoft Mobile Devices and Services has announced that it will be working with three highly successful indigenous entrepreneurs to mentor eventual winners of the ongoing ‘From Passion to Empire’ campaign to ensure full attainment of the goals of the initiative. The selected mentors include, top Nigerian beauty entrepreneur, Tara Fela-Durotoye, entertainment mogul and founder of the Chocolate City Group, Audu Maikori and founding partner of leading careers and jobs website, Jobberman, Opeyemi Awoyemi. They are throwing their weights behind the ongoing Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM activation ‘From Passion to Empire” and would be screening entries made to ensure that only worthy business ideas are picked for the next phase. According to the organisers, entries for the competition remains open till March 31, 2015. ‘From Passion to Empire’ initiative is aimed at testing the viability of young entrepreneurs’ ideas, sharpening their skills and expanding their frontiers through intensive business coaching aimed at helping them transform their business ideas to empires. Tara Fela-Durotoye is a trained lawyer who pursued her dream of becoming a successful make-up artist is the CEO of House of Tara International and designer of the Tara “Orekelewa” Beauty range, Inspired Perfume and the H.I.P Beauty range. She emphasizes the role of passion in attaining success in these words: “When you want to succeed as much as you want to breathe, that’s when you will be successful.” Multi-talented Nigerian entrepreneur, Audu Maikori, is famous for his globally acclaimed record label, Chocolate City, which represents a number of international artistes. Also a trained lawyer, Maikori is an entrepreneur, social activist and poet. An example of one that has transformed his passion to a business empire. One of his abiding aspirations is to build the biggest entertainment empire in Africa. Awoyemi is the co-founder of Nigeria’s leading job search-engine, Jobberman. The groundbreaking job search site began as the dream of young Awoyemi and a couple of friends. Dream turned to reality for him during the 2009 industrial action of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). An eloquent testimony to the empire Awoyemi has made of his passion is that the Forbes Magazine has listed Jobberman as one of the Top 20 Tech Startups in Africa. According to the Senior Marketing Manager, Microsoft Devices and Services, Olumide Balogun, “Lumia is for inspired people who do not recognize boundaries in the quest to reaching for their goals. We know that such people abound in Nigeria and we are happy to work with established entrepreneurs and the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of the Pan Atlantic University to offer them the opportunity to soar through the ‘From Passion to Empire’ initiative.” Lumia smartphones and tablets, including the Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM, specifically, provide business tools every entrepreneur needs to achieve the extraordinary. The Lumia 535 Dual SIM offers five great integrated Microsoft experiences, a wide-angle 5 megapixel front facing camera, and a spacious 5 inch display protected with Gorilla Glass 3, unique selling propositions that make it a perfect device for entrepreneurs who want to do more on the go. At the end of Passion to Empire, five people with the most brilliant business ideas would be awarded the sum of N3.5m each, in addition to being mentored by these successful entrepreneurs. They will also undergo three days of training at the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of the Pan Atlantic University. To participate in the campaign, all you need is a great and innovative business idea, then log on to www.microsoft.com/mobile to pitch your entry.

‘Promasidor Quill Awards is open to all journalists in Nigeria

Promasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of Cowbell, Onga, Toptea and Loya Milk and organisers of the prestigious Promasidor Quill awards today said the Award is not meant for journalists based in Lagos and its environs alone but for all practicing journalists across the country. In an interview in Lagos, the company’s Head of Legal and Public Relations, Mr. Andrew Enahoro, said the information on the Promasidor Quill Awards has always been for journalists to enter and also for media houses to encourage their staff to participate. His words: “This has not changed. We have judiciously done what we are supposed to do. It is now left for the target audience of the awards to realize that this is a credible platform with adequate rewards. If you feel that the work you have done is good enough to merit an award then, put it in. That is what it is all about – to recognise and reward excellence”. The 2015 edition of the awards was flagged off January 2015 and prospective contestants have until April 30, 2015 to submit their entries. Contestants are expected to upload their entries online to participate in the awards. Reacting to query by some prospective contestants that uploading entries online has been difficult, Enahoro said “in the unlikely event that you cannot upload your entries, you can send your entries to our PR Agency, TPT International. What we want is the word format, and a scanned copy of the published work. Commenting on the e-platform entry submission process of the awards, Enahoro said the reason for using the e-platform is to take care of media men/journalists who are outside Lagos and South West. “We don’t want a situation where the scope will be limited to any specific geographical zone”, he stated. Moreover he stated that with the e-platform, there is an instant acknowledgement of entry. The website also has helplines and email addresses where any issues are promptly attended to. Share.

Dell Named As a 2015 World’s Most Ethical Company by the Ethisphere Institute

Dell today announced that it has been recognized by the Ethisphere Institute, the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, as a 2015 World’s Most Ethical Company. The World’s Most Ethical Companies designation recognizes those organizations that have had a material impact on the way business is conducted by fostering a culture of ethics and transparency at every level of the company. Dell was also recognized as a 2014 World’s Most Ethical Company by the Ethisphere Institute. Being a second-year honoree underscores Dell’s commitment to leading ethical business standards and practices, and ensuring long-term value to key stakeholders, including customers, employees, suppliers and regulators. Ethisphere this year recognized 132 companies spanning 21 countries on five continents. Dell is one of only eight companies in the computer hardware, services and software industries honored this year. Ethisphere’s chief executive officer, Timothy Erblich said “The World’s Most Ethical Companies embrace the correlation between ethical business practice and improved company performance. These companies use ethics as a means to further define their industry leadership and understand that creating an ethical culture and earning the World’s Most Ethical Companies recognition involves more than just an outward facing message or a handful of senior executives saying the right thing”. “Earning this recognition involves the collective action of a global workforce from the top down. We congratulate everyone at Dell for this extraordinary achievement.” The chairman and CEO of Dell, Michael Dell said, “Our team members worldwide are responsible for driving this recognition. I’m proud of our team’s ongoing commitment to engaging ethically with all our stakeholders and to winning with integrity in all we do.” The World’s Most Ethical Company assessment is based on the Ethisphere Institute’s Ethics Quotient™ (EQ) framework developed over years of research to provide a means to assess an organization’s performance in an objective, consistent and standardized way. The information collected provides a comprehensive sampling of definitive criteria of core competencies. The EQ framework and methodology is determined, vetted and refined by the expert advice and insights gleaned from Ethisphere’s network of thought leaders and from the World’s Most Ethical Company Methodology Advisory Panel. The award from the Ethisphere Institute adds to previous Dell corporate governance recognition. The company in 2013 was presented the Principled Performance Award by OCEG, an industry-leading, non-profit think tank dedicated to assisting companies in achieving their governance, risk and compliance objectives, and in 2014, Dell received an innovation award from TRACE for Dell’s innovative third-party program. Dell is committed to a culture of integrating ethics and compliance into daily decision-making. Dell believes acting ethically in all we do is good business and important to our customers, suppliers and strategic partners. As a result, critical programs have been developed to address key risks across the enterprise. These programs operate under the oversight of the Dell Global Risk and Compliance Council (GRCC), which includes members of the Dell Executive Leadership Team and strategic functional heads such as Ethics, Audit and Accounting. This Council ensures both top-level leadership support and appropriate resources are available for Dell’s risk and compliance programs, and that ethical decision making informs strategic decision-making at the company. Dell’s chief ethics and compliance officer, Michael McLaughlin said, “Doing the right thing, and winning the right way is personal at Dell. It’s the way we do business. This award, and the other recognition Dell has received, recognizes Dell’s commitment to integrity and our promise to continue to strive to live our purpose and values in all we do.”

Intel Encourages Science Education Among Nigerian Youths … Sponsors National Festival of School Science Fair

Intel Corporation will sponsor the 11th edition of the National Festival of School Science Fair taking place in Ado -Ekiti, Ekiti State from March 15th through 17th, 2015. The National Festival of School Science was conceived in November, 2004 as an Initiative of Genius Illumina with the clear objective of encouraging the teaching and learning of Science and as a catalyst for sustainable national development. Intel has been a corporate sponsor of the Science Fair since 2008 and will once again sponsor this year’s fair. Intel is directly involved in education in Nigeria and indeed around the world in order to expand elementary and secondary students’ knowledge of and enthusiasm for science, mathematics and engineering. Country Manager, Intel Nigeria, Olubunmi Ekundare while explaining the mechanics of the competition stated, “Intel is directly involved in education today to inspire and enable innovation tomorrow and to expand elementary and secondary students’ knowledge of and enthusiasm for science, mathematics and engineering” “This is also why Intel sponsors a number of maths and science competitions including Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, a Program of Society for Science & the Public which brings together hundreds of young scientists to share ideas, showcase cutting-edge science, and compete for scholarships” Ekundare added. Explaining further on the reason for the Fair, Genius Illumina, Executive Director, Dr Jerry Orhue, said, “For us at Genius Illumina, it’s been eleven years of unbroken commitment to the promotion of excellence in Science and Technology Education. Over ten years ago, we stood alone, but today, we are grateful to have giants standing by us. We remain highly indebted to our financial partners who through their commitments to the Nigerian child have continued to put their money behind our noble dream. We look forward to many more years of working together with them for the glory of our great country”. Interestingly, NAFESS organized by Genius Illumina is affiliated to Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (INTEL-ISEF) in the United States. Winners of the best 3 projects at this year’s fair will be sponsored to attend the Intel (ISEF) in the US in May, 2015 while the teachers of students with winning projects would be recognised at the award ceremony. The Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF) is the world’s largest pre-college science competition, bringing together hundreds of young scientists to share ideas, showcase cutting-edge science, and compete for scholarships. The competition encourages students to solve problems and tackle challenging scientific questions through authentic research. Intel assumed sponsorship of Intel ISEF in 1996, and in October 2008 extended its commitment to the program through 2019. Apart from attendance at the Intel-ISEF, Genius Illumina kids have also been opportune to feature in notable International events such as the International Sustainable World Project Olympiad (I-SWEEEP) based in Houston Texas, (since 2010), the Expo Science International (ESI), a programme of the international Movement for Leisure Activity in Science and Technology, MILSET (since 2011). Intel is determined to use the platform of the National School Science Fair to gradually transform every Nigerian student into a researcher and to help them see themselves as part of solutions to societal problems.

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Guinness Nigeria Applauds Lagos Government For Planting Five Million Trees In 6 Years

Over six million trees have been planted in Lagos state since the state government initiated tree planting campaign as part of measures to reduce the impact of global climate change. Governor of the state, Babatunde Raji Fashola made the disclosure on Monday during the commemoration of the 2014 edition of the annual tree planting day. The 2014 Industrial Tree Planting Day with the theme “Life is better with tree” was jointly organized by Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency in partnership with Guinness Nigeria Plc. He added that besides aesthetic, health and environmental values of tree planting, the campaign has generated over 75,168 employment opportunities for horticulturists, gardeners, pruners, welders, tanker drivers, security personnel as well as water hawkers and sellers. Fashola spoke through the General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Engineer Adebola Shabi. According to the Lagos State Governor,” apart from aesthetic value of the trees, the health and environmental benefits are also innumerable. This exercise has also generated over 75,168 employment opportunities for horticulturists, pruners, gardeners, welders, tanker drivers, security personnel, down to the water boy, all of who help to keep the trees alive”. In his remarks, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Seni Adetu who was represented by Director, Supply Chain, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Cephas Afebuameh, noted that Guinness Nigeria Plc was honoured to partner the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) on environmental preservation and restoration through this year’s industrial tree planting exercise.

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Annie Idibia, Ini Edo Others ‘Walk Against Rape

Ini Edo, Annie Idibia and a host of other female celebrities walked against rape in a campaign tagged ‘Walk against Rape’ in Lagos. The campaign is identified on social media platforms with #Walkagainstrape, #Speakup and #BreakTheSilence http://perfectbrandsng.com/annie-idibia-ini-edo-others-walk-against-rape/

NUJ Set To Picket Thisday, Newswatch Times

Nigerian Union of Journalists has said that it will picket the headquarters of ThisDay and Newswatch newspapers over non-payment of journalists’ salaries. In separate letters to Nduka Obaigbena and Jimoh Ibrahim, the owners of ThisDay and Newswatch Times Newspapers respectively, the NUJ urged the management to “urgently” offset the backlog of salaries of journalists in the organization. While ThisDay journalists have not been paid for seven months, those at Newswatch Times (formerly known as Newswatch) are being owed about six months. The NUJ stressed, in their letter, that the successes recorded by THISDAY and Newswatch Times Newspapers could be attributed to the hard work of its members who toil daily to ensure the Newspapers never fail to hit the news stand. “It is thus imperative to note that in order to maintain a harmonious working relationship, staff salaries should not be allowed to accumulate,” the NUJ stated in the letter dated March 3 and signed by Shu’aibu Usman, the National Secretary. Speaking over the phone, Mr. Usman said that the union will not disclose the dates for picketing the companies. http://perfectbrandsng.com/nuj-set-to-picket-thisday-newswatch-times/#prettyPhoto

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Life Has Taught Me That The Key To Success Is Discipline- Femi Adeniran, Head PR Airtel, Nigeria

Cute, dynamic and handsome, Femi Adeniran is sure an embodiment of a cosmopolitan career personality of sterling qualities. The show-stopping-dapper who hails from one of the notable ruling houses in Oshogbo, Osun State has had quite a commendable track records criss-crossing between the corporate world and politics. The quiet and intelligent public relations connoisseur who rarely entertains the klieglight’s bug succumbed to pressure when he obliged News Editor, Faith Irabor into his very private life to speak on his forays and experiences as a banker, politician and Telecoms expert. You would enjoy the interesting chats. How best can we describe Femi Adeniran? Well, how do I start to answer that question? Often times people try to define themselves from the angle of what they do for a living, family background, religion etc. In my own case, I try to run as much as possible from defining myself from the angle of my career so I would simply say first and foremost, that I am a Nigerian, a committed one for that matter with keen interest in the Nigerian conversation and the course of the ordinary man. This same commitment reflects in everything that I do, be it my career or my personal life. http://perfectbrandsng.com/life-has-taught-me-that-the-key-to-success-is-discipline-femi-adeniran-head-pr-airtel-nigeria/

Thursday, March 5, 2015

CHALLENGE UP! – Cisco, Deutsche Telekom and Intel Announce Joint Startup Program

Today at Mobile World Congress, Cisco, Deutsche Telekom and Intel announced Challenge Up! a joint Internet of Things (IoT) accelerator for startups from the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. The program aims at helping innovative IoT startups go-to-market faster through joint projects, mentoring, high-value networking and corporate assets. Selected companies would also be opportune to receive strategic investment and support commercializing their product or service for global markets. Speaking on this, Senior Vice President in charge of Europe B2B at Deutsche Telekom, Elias Drakopoulos, stated that “With Challenge Up! We are giving a great signal to the startup world, bringing together the resources and know-how of three corporations. We will use our combined experience for the benefit of the Challenge Up! Program and the support of the startup community”. http://perfectbrandsng.com/challenge-up-cisco-deutsche-telekom-and-intel-announce-joint-startup-program/

BJAN Unveils Plans To Mark 2015 Consumer Rights Day

Determined to foist the widely accepted mantra that ‘consumer is king’ in the country, Brand Journalists’ Association of Nigeria (BJAN) has concluded plans to join the rest of the world to mark World Consumer Right Day celebration, which will hold with the theme ‘Healthy Diet.’ The event, which is scheduled to hold on Friday, March 13, 2015, at White House Hotels, GRA, Ikeja, will also be used to honour individuals who have contributed to the nation’s marketing communication industry and consumer empowerment in 2014. According to the chairman of the association, Mr. Goddie Ofose, the decision to join the rest of the global community in celebrating consumers is to deepen conversation on issues affecting consumers with particular focus on the plight of consumers in Nigeria. “We are using this forum to reawaken stakeholders in the industry that they have a duty to protect consumers. Our role as journalists is to educate, inform and entertain. It also includes agenda setting,’’ he stated. http://perfectbrandsng.com/bjan-unveils-plans-to-mark-2015-consumer-rights-day/

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Etisalat-Sponsored Nigerian Idol 5 Premiers

As a build up to the March 1st telecast of episode one of Nigerian Idol season five, Nigeria’s most innovative telecommunication, Etisalat treated members of the press and guests to an exclusive episode of the show. The event held at Oriental hotel, Lagos was to give guests a peek of the auditions held in five cities across the country. Head Events and Sponsorships, Etisalat Nigeria, Modupe Thani disclosed that Etisalat has packaged an interesting show for viewers and audience. “As a brand, we consider the youths as a critical audience and we are passionate about what drives them. This year’s edition promises to be one of the best shows ever, because we have put so much in place to give the audience and viewers an all-round exciting experience.” This season, the winner of Nigerian Idol will be rewarded with N7.5 million cash reward, a brand new car, a recording deal with Universal Music Company worth N7.5 million amongst other prizes. The show is scheduled to begin airing on March 1st on TV stations across the country. Such as NTA, STV, Hip TV, Superscreen TV, WAP TV, Smash TV, AMC TV, Rave TV, Cool TV Wazobia TV and V.Channel TV. http://perfectbrandsng.com/etisalat-sponsored-nigerian-idol-5-premiers/

For Brands, 2015 Is Shaping Up To Be The Year Of Positivity …Why Dove, Coca-Cola And Mcdonald’s Are Smiling At Millennials- By kristina Monllos

Can a brand help improve a consumer’s state of mind or even dare to make them happier? That’s what marketing for brands like Coca-Cola, McDonald’s and Dove is attempting in 2015. These big brand marketers are using various campaigns to make the world a kinder, happier place—whether that’s combating hate online or making consumers smile with a new love-inspired currency. Though the brands’ motives aren’t entirely altruistic, the overall happiness goal will help position these brands for better engagement with the much sought-after millennial segment. According to a recent study by ZenithOptimedia, The Pursuit of Happiness, brands that can help millennials achieve happiness stand the best chance of securing long-lasting and profitable relationships with that consumer group. “By understanding how millennials find fulfillment in their lives, brands can play a meaningful role to support and enhance their pursuit of happiness,” said Linda Tan, strategic insights director for ZenithOptimedia Worldwide. http://perfectbrandsng.com/for-brands-2015-is-shaping-up-to-be-the-year-of-positivity-why-dove-coca-cola-and-mcdonalds-are-smiling-at-millennials-by-kristina-monllos/

British Airways Announces $394 Special Fares to London for Easter Celebration

With flowers in bloom, warm weather coming, and nature readying itself for spring, British Airways in celebration of Easter has announced a special bumper fares in its World Traveller and World Traveller Plus to an exciting range of worldwide destinations. Whether you choose to take a break, embark on an adventure or celebrate with family and friends abroad during the Easter season, British Airways World Traveller and World Traveller Plus cabin offer fantastic fares as low as $394 for everyone who book from either Lagos or Abuja from 1st March to 31st March 2015. According to British Airways Regional Commercial Manager, West Africa, Mr Kola Olayinka, the special fares apply to all existing and potential customers of British Airways who desire to get great deals on flights to the UK, Europe or to major gateways in the US during the Easter season. “With our new special Easter offer, our World Traveller and World Traveller Plus customers can fly from Abuja or Lagos to London with a budget as low as $394, to Europe with a minimum of $420 budget and $773 to North America.” “Easter marks the kickoff for something unique in every culture. This season, we are offering our existing and potential customers a privilege to travel abroad with low budget. We want to further reinstate that we care about our customers and we are always committed to giving them best airline service across board.” Olayinka disclosed. http://perfectbrandsng.com/british-airways-announces-394-special-fares-to-london-for-easter-celebration/

Orijin Vs Ace Roots: Who Wears The Crown? By Fisayo Ajibola

A Japanese Soldier, Hideki Tojo said “…when survival is threatened, struggles erupt between peoples, and unfortunate wars between nations result”. The saying of this Japanese soldier best describe the battle field set before two big players in brewery industry in Nigeria, Guinness Nigeria Plc and Nigeria Breweries Plc. The survival of Guinness Nigeria Plc’s Ready to drink (RTD) herb drink, Orijin is now threatened by the launch of Ace roots from the stables of Nigeria breweries. The herb drinks industry which was dominated by ‘back door’ producers some years back now enjoys the acceptance of A-class makers of alcohol drink. While Orijin was launched in 2013 amidst funfare to the delight of its esteemed consumers, the alcohol with blend of African herbs and fruits targets all categories of fun seekers. Speaking at the launch, Mr. Seni Adetu, EX-Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, said Orijin is a drink that will appeal to the modern African who wants to enjoy the best things of life while still holding on to their African roots. He added that the herbs and fruits combination is to give a refreshing bitter-sweet taste. Orijin acceptance spreads like wild fire across the country and contrary to the belief in some quarters that it was created to meet some certain health benefits, the Marketing Manager, Innovation, Orijin, Ms.Omosefe Odaro, said that the product was to cater for consumers yearning for a drink that could identify with the African roots. While its kingship reign was at its peak, another contender in the industry, Nigeria breweries launched an “attack” with the introduction of Ace Roots. http://perfectbrandsng.com/orijin-vs-ace-roots-who-wears-the-crown-by-fisayo-ajibola/