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NDLEA companions NPFL on drug check for footballers

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NDLEA companions NPFL on drug check for footballers

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the Nigeria Premier Football League have agreed to partner on the conduct of drug tests for footballers in the country as part of efforts to curb the menace of substance abuse in Nigeria.

A statement signed by the Director of Media and Advocacy of NDLEA, Femi Babafemi, noted that this was one of the high points of discussions between the leadership of the agency and the football league.

This happened when the Chairman of the NPFL board, Gbenga Elegbeleye, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), in Abuja on Friday.

The statement mentioned that an ex-international, Daniel Amokachi; Chairman of Sokoto State Football Association, Mohammed Nasiru; Chief Operating Officer of the NPFL, Davidson Owumi and Head of Legal, NPFL, Uche Egbe, were among the delegates on the courtesy visit.

In his remarks, Elegbeleye acknowledged the inspiring and impactful leadership Marwa has given NDLEA to become a frontline law enforcement agency.

Elegbeleye on national awareness

Elegbeleye said the activities of the agency have not only raised national awareness about the drug scourge but have equally curbed the impunity of drug cartels and barons.

He said part of the problems facing the sports industry in the country especially football is betting and the use of performance-enhancing drugs by footballers.

Elegbeleye said, “The only agency that can save this situation is NDLEA by working with us to carry out random drug tests on our players. Once they know we conduct drug tests, they will refrain from abusing illicit substances. This is why we seek the support and partnership with NDLEA.”

In his response, Marwa commended the NPFL boss for his giant strides and innovations to build the football league.

The NDLEA chief assured him that the agency won’t relent in its action against drug cartels in the country.

He also expressed the willingness of the agency to partner with NPFL to curb the abuse of illicit substances by footballers.

“We are happy with your request for random drug tests for players. This is available in all our commands nationwide and we are ready to work with you in this respect. We are very ready to collaborate and support you in your quest,” Marwa stated.

He said the league should also consider mobilising star footballers to get involved in open advocacy against drug abuse because a lot of youths look up to them as role models.

Drug testing in sports

According Online reports that drug testing in sports is an ongoing effort to maintain a level playing field and promote the values of fair competition, sportsmanship, and the pursuit of excellence.

The effectiveness of these programs relies on the collaboration of athletes, sports organizations, and anti-doping agencies to uphold the integrity of sports.

At the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, some Nigerian players were picked for random testing and the results came out negative.

Nigerian fans have hailed Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, for his fitness and seemingly unending energy after he was cleared alongside teammates Willian Troost-Ekong and Moses Simon following multiple dope tests by CAF.

About a week ago, Juventus player Paul Pogba was banned from football for four years following a failed drug test, according to reports by Italian media.

SMEDAN guarantees help for feminine entrepreneurs

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SMEDAN guarantees help for feminine entrepreneurs

As part of efforts to boost support for women entrepreneurs, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, has revealed a new brand to reposition the agency towards achieving its mission of job creation, rural industrialisation, and livelihood enhancement through sustainable development of the Small Medium Enterprise sub-sector.

In a statement by the SMEDAN Director General, Mr Charles Odii on Friday, the agency emphasised that the new brand aims to ensure prosperity for small business owners, especially women, who constitute over 70 percent of SMEs in the country.

Odii emphasised that the decision to unveil the brand on International Women’s Day underscores the agency’s commitment to women’s empowerment.

Yearly, the International Women’s Day is marked globally on March 8.

The 2024 celebration is themed, #InspireInclusion. Collectively, we can all #InspireInclusion.

The statement read, “As the agency responsible for the transition of nano businesses into micro, micro into small, and small into medium, we understand the importance of change and progress. Not just for the sake of it, but because adaptation and evolution are crucial for relevance and impact.”

“We want to clearly communicate our purpose, strengthen our bond with the entities that we serve, and the local and international stakeholders we collaborate with for success. More importantly, we want to reassure SMEs that we are #HereForProsperity, their prosperity.”

“We’ve created a brand that is closer to the people, modern in its outlook, approachable in its demeanour, and vibrant in its spirit. The backbones of our economy deserve to be catered to by an agency that mirrors the excellence they showcase daily and aspire to.”

“We made the deliberate choice to announce this on International Women’s Day because of the significance of women to our prosperity mission. Women are responsible for almost 75 percent of SMEs in the country, and they have also distinguished themselves as investment multipliers, on whose backs and hard work the economy rests.”

The SMEDAN DG further declared a renewed dedication to empowering women, ensuring they receive deserving support and recognition for their productivity and contributions.

He added that the commitment starts within SMEDAN, acknowledging the significant efforts of the women who have devoted decades to fortify the foundations of Nigeria’s economy.

“As part of our renewal, SMEDAN is rededicating itself to the empowerment of women, ensuring that they get deserved support and recognition for their productivity and contributions. We will start this at home, with the women of SMEDAN, many of whom have invested decades of their lives into building stronger roots for the pillars that hold the Nigerian economy. The new SMEDAN will spotlight them, provide them with the tools and resources to create more impact, and achieve personal progress.”

“While we will continue to deliberately create growth opportunities for women, none will be left behind. Our pledge to SMEs remains. We will enable growth and prosperity, offer guidance, provide resources, connect them to opportunities, and ensure workforce support. No longer will a future-forward, people-government facing agency like ours be seen to work for just a few, but for the good of all.”

“SMEDAN-20 encouraged big dreams, small starts, and fast growth, SMEDAN 2.0 is about prosperity: for the Nigerian businessperson and the country. Because we are convinced that when the Nigerian businessperson prospers, so does Nigeria,” the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, at an event celebrating International Women’s Day, the Director, Partnership and Coordination Department, Mrs Omube-Pepple Linda said SMEDAN is committed to supporting businesses of women in the country to grow and expand.

Customs CG blames unlawful exportation for meals insecurity

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Customs CG blames unlawful exportation for meals insecurity

The Nigerian Customs Service has blamed the current hardship experienced by Nigerians following the economic reform policies undertaken by President Bola Tinubu’s administration on illicit exportation by unpatriotic Nigerians.

The service also noted that the cooperation and collaboration of all stakeholders is needed in tackling the dire food crisis being experienced.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said this when he visited the Lamido of Adamawa, Dr. Barkindo Mustapha in Yola on Thursday.

Adeniyi, represented by the acting Controller in charge of the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘D’, Joseph Adelaja, said they were at the palace to seek the monarch’s collaboration in tackling activities of unscrupulous businessmen behind current food insecurity in the nation.

He explained that the reason for the visit was to seek cooperation, particularly information on the activities of hoarders whose activities have contributed to soaring prices of food commodities.

He said, “Because of the current economic reforms going on in the country, we are confronted with food insecurity. This food insecurity is occasioned by the illicit exportation of essential commodities.

“We are urging all to support us in this fight with the necessary information to tackle the menace of hoarding we have faced which has caused a hike in the potential prices of essential food commodities. Food security is the business of every Nigerian. Prices today have gone up extra-ordinarily like we have never had before because unpatriotic individuals are exporting foods that are meant for Nigerians.”

Adelaja, accompanied by other senior customs officers, decried the activities of unpatriotic businessmen.

He said, “People are hungry and you are exporting food out of the country to feed other nations.
This is not in the best interest of the country and we must all join hands to tackle the menace headlong.”

In his remarks, the Galadima of Adamawa, Mustapha Aminu, who represented the Lamido, said the role of the customs in national food security and sustenance was indispensable.

He urged the customs to remain steadfast in its economic and security role while pledging the support of the Emirate to the customs in achieving its goal of tackling the current economic food crisis.

Sunday According reports that amid the free fall of the naira to the United States dollar, traders who deal in grains have devised a way to sell their wares to neighbouring countries for higher profits.

Many of them, who spoke to our correspondents, claimed that they preferred to sell their wares to the countries because they had stronger currencies compared to the naira.

This, several experts have said, may lead to hoarding and an artificial grain scarcity and can cause the price of the goods to further head north, thereby leading to a food crisis if nothing is done about it.

This is coming at a time when the country is battling severe hunger, as the prices of staples have increased by over 300 per cent.

The country is also witnessing the highest inflation in 28 years, with the food inflation rate in January hitting 35.41 per cent.

Nigeria’s annual inflation rate rose to 29.90 per cent in the same month from 28.92 per cent in December 2023, according to official figures from the National Bureau of Statistics.

For instance, a bag of long grain rice now sells for almost N80,000 as against N45,000, which it sold for in December 2023. A crate of eggs now sells for almost N5,000; in December, it sold for N2,700.

Several other food items have also seen an astronomical increase in prices owing to several market forces, chief of which is the free fall of the naira.

Ex-gov’s spouse seeks extra consciousness in tackling most cancers

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Ex-gov’s spouse seeks extra consciousness in tackling most cancers

Wife of a former Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, has stressed the need for more awareness in addressing the growing burden of cancer.

She said partnerships will effectively help to reach targeted audiences with vital health information on cancer.

In a statement made available to According Online on Friday, she said the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine and Maigaskiya Visuals, recently hosted an ‘Art for cancer,’ curation event aimed at raising awareness about prostate cancer.

The event, titled, ‘Brushing off the silence,’ served as a platform to convey the message about the significant impact of prostate cancer in Nigeria through various art forms such as painting, dance, and craftwork.

Shinkafi-Bagudu said the ‘Art for Cancer’ event exemplified how partnerships could leverage art to promote awareness in an engaging and ambient environment.

She said, “Despite challenges such as underreporting and limited access to healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa, initiatives like this underscore the importance of education and awareness in addressing the growing burden of cancer within the region.”

The Director of Government Affairs and Policy at Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Mr Ikechukwu Ofuani, said Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine was committed to educating men over 40 about prostate cancer screening and urged active participation in examinations, emphasising the partnership’s dedication to supporting initiatives that raise awareness about prostate cancer.

Also speaking for Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Nkechi Ukaiwe, Country Manager for the organisation in Nigeria and Ghana, reiterated the importance of ongoing support for such initiatives, highlighting their leading role in Nigeria.

Convener of Maigaskiya Visuals, Abdullah-Uthman Maigaskiya, said the exhibition’s focus was on depicting the societal impact of prostate cancer.

He announced that proceeds from the auctioned artworks would contribute to the campaign against cancer.

Maigaskiya said with innovative collaborations and creative initiatives like the Art for Cancer event, organisations like the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, and their partners were making significant strides in raising awareness and promoting early detection of prostate cancer, and working towards reducing its impact on society.

FRC to unveil roadmap report on sustainability disclosure

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FRC to unveil roadmap report on sustainability disclosure

The Financial Reporting Council has stated its readiness to launch the roadmap report for the adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards one and two in two weeks.

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the council, Dr Rabiu Olowo, stated this during a signing ceremony with the Nigeria Integrated Reporting Committee on Friday in Abuja.

According to Investopedia, IFRS is set of accounting rules for the financial statements of public companies that are intended to make them consistent, transparent, and easily comparable around the world.

IFRS S1 standards are designed to facilitate disclosures from entities, as part of their general‑purpose financial reports, about sustainability risks and opportunities, while IFRS S2 standards encourage companies to disclose information about how an entity manages potential negative effects of climate change.

He said, “This could not have come at a better time considering the fact that the roadmap report for the adoption of the IFRS S1 and S2 will be launched on March 22, 2024, just precisely two weeks during the visit of Mr Emmanuel Faber, Chair, ISSB and his team to Nigeria as part of his three-nation African tour.”

Recall that Nigeria through the council declared its intent to early adopt the International Sustainability Standards Board standards at CoP 27 in Egypt in 2022 and followed the declaration by setting up the Adoption Readiness Working Group, hosted the launch of IFRS S1 and S2 in collaboration with the NGX Regulations Ltd on June 26, 2023, and issued the Roadmap report for 2 comments on February 1, 2024, demonstrate the determination to lead in this endeavour.

Continuing, Olowo stated that the agreement was one of the critical steps the Financial Reporting Council is taking towards ensuring effective and seamless implementation of sustainability reporting in Nigeria.

The FRC boss also emphasised that the council, driven by digitisation, operational excellence, stakeholder engagement, and enforcement agenda, is committed to fulfilling its mandate adding that the strategic approach is expected to elevate FRC to new heights, unlocking capital for the country and subsequently fostering employment opportunities.

He stated, “This event today is to demonstrate the commitment of the Council to ensure adequate and comprehensive advocacy to herald effective corporate behavioural change that will drive the sustainability reporting in Nigeria.

“In line with the statutory provision of the FRC Act 2011 as amended, which empowers the Council to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding towards the achievement of her mandate, we could not have gotten a better partner for our advocacy drive than the Nigeria Integrated Reporting Committee, an independent forerunner in the corporate reporting journey.”

Speaking in his address, the NIRC chairman, Dr Innocent Okwuosa said it is truly delightful to witness another milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards implementing sustainability reporting.

“This event signifies our country’s strong commitment to adopting sustainability reporting, and it’s a testament to the dedicated efforts put forth by the Nigerian Integrated Committee.

“I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the agendas and work programmes we have established are effectively realized. We will collaborate closely with the FRC to ensure the actualisation of these goals,” he said.

Employees demand totally different minimal wage throughout geopolitical zones

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Employees demand totally different minimal wage throughout geopolitical zones

The Tripartite Committee on the National Minimum Wage, on Thursday, put forth recommendations for a new minimum wage across the six geopolitical zones.

Chaired by the Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission, Ekpo Nta, the committee called for the active involvement of stakeholders in the process.

A public hearing was scheduled for March 7, with venues in Lagos, Kano, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Adamawa, and Abuja.

“We invite state and local governments, labour unions, employers of labour, civil society groups, small and medium enterprises and other stakeholders in the six geo-political zones to attend,” the statement quoted the chairman as saying.

The chairman urged the stakeholders to present a memorandum which should include the proposed new national minimum wage for workers.

According Online gives a breakdown of the recommendations from across the six zones.

North West new minimum wage demand

The presentation was made by the Kano State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Kabir Inuwa, on behalf of the North West leadership of the congress.

He said the proposed minimum wage of N485,000 was necessary considering the dynamics of the national economy.

The NLC boss noted that the Minimum Wage Act has given all the protection required to ensure compliance.

North East new minimum wage demand

Labour unions in the North East proposed a monthly national minimum wage of N560,000.

During the North East Zonal Public Hearing of the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage, both the NLC and Trade Union Congress branches across the six states in the region jointly recommended the amount.

In contrast, the Adamawa and Bauchi State Governments suggested N45,000.

The NLC chairman in Adamawa State, Emmanuel Fashe, presented the joint recommendation, advocating for a biennial review of the minimum wage instead of the current five-year cycle.

The Christian Association of Nigeria in Adamawa State similarly recommended N486,000 per month, considering various family expenditures.

Other groups, including the Nigeria Medical Association and the National Council of Women Societies, aligned with the NLC’s position.

The hearing, chaired by NLC President Joe Ajaero, addressed diverse recommendations, with differing proposed amounts from various groups, including N200,000 by NCWS and N75,000 by the Muslim Council of Nigeria.

North Central new minimum wage demand

The NLC chapter in the Federal Capital Territory suggested a revised minimum wage of N709,000.

The FCT Chairman of NLC, Dr Stephen Knabayi, presented the proposal during the North Central Zonal Public Hearing organised by the Tripartite Committee on the National Minimum Wage in Abuja on Thursday.

In a parallel recommendation, Mr Amaege Chukwudi, the leader of the TUC FCT chapter, proposed a monthly minimum wage of N447,000.

He highlighted the prevailing economic challenges, emphasising that many Nigerian workers are now facing dire circumstances akin to begging due to the hardship.

South West new minimum wage demand

The NLC  demanded N794,000 as the new national minimum wage for workers in the South West geopolitical zone.

The labour union in the South West, through the chairperson of the Lagos State chapter of the NLC, Funmi Sessi, made the demand during her presentation at the public hearing of the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage in Ikeja, Lagos on Thursday.

South South new minimum wage demand

The South-South chapter of the NLC recommended a revised minimum wage of N850,000 for workers across the country.

The chairperson of NLC in Akwa Ibom, Sunny James, made this announcement during a public hearing on the proposed wage structure held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday.

The proceedings of the event were broadcast live on Facebook. James voiced his dissatisfaction with the fact that certain states within the region have not yet implemented the existing N30,000 minimum wage, which was last updated in 2019.

South East new minimum wage demand

The NLC and the TUC in the South-East region jointly recommended N540,000 and N447,000, respectively, as the new minimum wage.

The proposal was presented by organised labour during the South-East Zonal Hearing organised by the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage in Enugu on Thursday.

Representing the NLC in the region, Fabian Nwigbo, the Chairman of the NLC Enugu State Chapter, emphasised that the purchasing power of the 2019 N30,000 minimum wage has been significantly eroded by inflation.

According Online reported on January 30 that the Federal Government inaugurated the tripartite committee on the national minimum wage.

Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima inaugurated the 37-member panel at the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja.

In his opening address, Shettima urged members to “speedily” arrive at a resolution and submit their reports early as the current N30,000 minimum wage expires at the end of March 2024.

Troops able to cope with safety threats throughout Ramadan — DHQ

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Troops able to cope with safety threats throughout Ramadan — DHQ

The Defence Headquarters has said troops deployed nationwide are prepared to address any threats, especially as the Muslim faithful begins the Ramadan period.

The DHQ’s assurance coincides with a statement from the Department of State Services which felicitates Christians for Lent and Muslims for the approaching Ramadan, and urged citizens to remain vigilant, particularly against the threat of Improvised Explosives.

The statement partly read, “The general public is urged to stay informed about potential threats; avoid crowded or suspicious areas and report to relevant security agencies any strange objects, activities, and movements of hostile elements.

“In the same vein, the Service calls for tolerance, bonds of brotherhood, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence among the populace.”

The DHQ, in a statement on Friday by the Director Media Operation, Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, said troops are prepared and capable of handling the security threats during the period.

“Even as Ramadan is about to commence, troops are ready as a formidable force for the threats and know how to deal with them,” the statement partly read.

Buba also vowed that the troops would not relent until terrorists were defeated on the battlefield.

He said, “The military will continue to defeat the terrorist and their cohorts on the battlefield and dislodge them from the safe havens across the country.

“The armed forces is a force of stability seeking to bring stability wherever it may be needed across the country. Accordingly, we are committed and remain strong in our mission of defending the country and protecting the citizens. ”

Speaking on the achievement of troops during the week, Buba said over 210 terrorists were killed and 142 arrested.

“It is against this background that, during the week under review, troops neutralised 210 and arrested 142 of them. Troops also arrested 66 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 46 kidnapped hostages. Furthermore, troops recovered 243 assorted weapons and 5,453 assorted ammunition, ” the statement added.

He also said in the South-South region denied oil theft an estimated sum of N2.2bn.

Buba added that troops in the Niger Delta area discovered and discovered and destroyed 63 dugout pits, 46 boats and 120 storage tanks.

“Other items recovered include 100 cooking ovens, 3 outboard engines, 11 pumping machines, 23 vehicles, 2 tricycles, 6 mobile phones, one generator, and 81 illegal refining sites. Troops recovered 1,932,245 litres of stolen crude oil, 432,150 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 3,500 litres of DPK,” he added.

Mamuda Group: Thriving Amidst Financial Turbulence

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Mamuda Group: Thriving Amidst Financial Turbulence

In the face of economic recessions and inflationary pressures, the resilience of businesses is tested, and their commitment to long-term growth is brought into question. However, amidst these challenges, Mamuda Group a leading multi-industry company in Nigeria comprised of 5 main strategic business units: Mamuda Beverages Nigeria ltd (Carbonated Soft Drinks, Energy Drinks, and Bottled Water), Mamuda Agro & Allied Products Nigeria ltd (Sacks, and Mats), Mamuda Foods Nigeria ltd (Biscuits, Wafers, Candies, and lollipops), Mamuda Industries Nigeria ltd (Leather Tannery), Mamuda Care Nigeria ltd (Soaps and Detergents). stands out as a beacon of unwavering faith in the Nigerian economy. Despite the adversities, Mamuda Group continues to thrive and expand its business operations, showcasing its steadfast belief in the potential and resilience of Nigeria’s economic landscape.

Founded on the principles of innovation, integrity, and dedication, Mamuda Group has established itself as a prominent player in various sectors of the Nigerian economy, with some of its brands such as Pop Cola, Pop Water, Infinite Power, Pick me, Secret Bites, Power up, Too Clean, Mama Joy, Nova, Classy and more. With a rich history spanning several years, the group has weathered numerous economic storms, emerging stronger and more determined each time.

One of the key factors driving Mamuda Group’s success in turbulent times is its adaptability and strategic foresight. Instead of succumbing to the pressures of economic downturns, the group proactively identifies emerging opportunities and adjusts its business strategies accordingly. Whether it’s diversifying its portfolio, streamlining operations, or investing in cutting-edge technologies, Mamuda Group remains agile and forward-thinking, positioning itself for sustained growth amidst uncertainty.

Furthermore, Mamuda Group’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria is deeply ingrained in its corporate ethos. Despite the allure of foreign markets or the temptation to relocate operations in the face of economic instability, the group remains steadfast in its dedication to contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. By creating jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting local communities, Mamuda Group plays a pivotal role in driving inclusive growth and prosperity across the nation.

Moreover, Mamuda Group’s resilience in the face of economic challenges serves as a testament to its strong leadership and sound management practices. With a team of seasoned professionals at the helm, the group navigates complexities with poise and determination, leveraging its collective expertise to overcome obstacles and seize opportunities. Through prudent financial management, effective risk mitigation strategies, and a focus on operational efficiency, Mamuda Group sustains its growth trajectory even in turbulent times.

Looking ahead, Mamuda Group remains optimistic about Nigeria’s economic prospects, despite prevailing challenges. With a resilient spirit, a commitment to excellence, and a firm belief in the nation’s potential, the group continues to forge ahead, driving innovation, fostering growth, and creating value for all stakeholders. As Nigeria’s economic landscape evolves, Mamuda Group stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and faith in the future.

In conclusion, Mamuda Group’s resilience and unwavering commitment to Nigeria amidst economic recessions and inflationary pressures exemplify its status as a cornerstone of the nation’s business community. Through strategic foresight, adaptability, and a steadfast dedication to socio-economic development, the group continues to thrive, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, opportunities abound for those who believe in Nigeria’s limitless potential.

 

How Coca-Cola Nigeria is Championing Girls’s Empowerment and Inclusion

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How Coca-Cola Nigeria is Championing Girls’s Empowerment and Inclusion

As the world unites to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD), a day dedicated to recognizing women’s achievements and advocating for gender equality, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited (CCNL) reaffirms its commitment to empowering Nigerian women. We are a total beverage company, refreshing local economies and making a difference in their lives. This year, in line with the UN’s theme for International Women’s Day, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” we celebrate the women across the Coca-Cola system – from our associates to women entrepreneurs in our value chain who are running small businesses in local communities.

We believe that supporting the success of women-owned businesses creates a ripple effect of positive results in local communities.For decades, Coca-Cola has distinguished itself as a champion for women’s economic empowerment and development. Through diverse and impactful initiatives, the company has driven positive change for Nigerian women, from fostering female leadership within its organization to equipping women entrepreneurs across its value chain.

Women empowerment is deeply embedded in Coca-Cola’s core values, aspiring to a 50% female representation in its leadership by 2030. By nurturing female leadership talent internally and empowering women entrepreneurs externally, Coca-Cola continues to play a crucial role in driving sustainable and inclusive growth across Nigeria.

Recognizing the vital role women entrepreneurs play in the Nigerian economy, Coca-Cola has established a strong commitment to their success. Programs like 5 by 20, Lady Mechanic Initiative, ENGINE, Catalyst for Change and EQUIP 60,000etc offering practical training and valuable resources, propelling women to launch and grow their businesses, leading to flourishing businesses, uplifted families, and empowered communities.

Beyond national initiatives, Coca-Cola through its philanthropic arm, The Coca-Cola Foundation funded the pan-African JAMII Femmes Initiative with Women in Africa (WIA). This ambitious program aims to accelerate the growth of 14,000 women entrepreneurs across Nigeria, Kenya, and Ivory Coast. Chioma Echegwesi, a Nigerian agritech entrepreneur, exemplifies the program’s transformative impact. As a program champion, she received a $10,000 grant which she has transformed into a greenhouse creating employment opportunities, showcasing the program’s far-reaching influence. Chioma’s story is just one out of over 500,000 Nigerian women who has passed through the Coca-Cola System empowerment initiatives in the last decade.

As we celebrate IWD, we are reminded of the countless women strengthened by Coca-Cola Nigeria’s women empowerment initiatives. Speaking on the company’s dedication to women, Nwamaka Onyemelukwe, Senior Director, Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability at Coca-Cola Nigeria, stated ” The Coca-Cola Company is for everyone. We invest to improve people’s lives, including providing jobs, creating economic opportunities for women, and supporting communities where we operate”

Coca-Cola’s commitment extends beyond individual success stories. By equipping women with the right skills and resources, Coca-Cola empowers entire communities, upholding the maxim: When women succeed, their families thrive, leading to a more prosperous and sustainable  society.

 

Guardiola finest supervisor of my lifetime, says Liverpool’s Klopp

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Guardiola finest supervisor of my lifetime, says Liverpool’s Klopp

Jurgen Klopp on Friday hailed Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as the best manager of his lifetime as he prepares his Liverpool team for what could be the final chapter in their captivating rivalry.

City have won five of the past six Premier League titles but Liverpool have been their main rivals, snatching the crown in 2020.

The two teams are once again locked in a tussle at the top of the table, with leaders Liverpool ahead of the champions by a single point before Sunday’s clash at Anfield.

The Liverpool boss said Guardiola, whose team are chasing a second successive treble of the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup was “outstanding in many aspects”.

“I know that I do the job myself so I see excellence when I face it and Pep is definitely that so it’s just so many different things over the years he did with his teams,” Klopp told reporters on Friday.

“How can I judge managers from the past? But in my lifetime he’s the outstanding manager, definitely.”

Klopp has a winning record against Guardiola — coming out on top 12 times against 11 in their 29 meetings.

“In this moment I have a positive record against Pep,” he said. “I have no clue how that happened to be honest but it is all fine.

“I know I’m quite good at what I’m doing as well. I don’t want to sound like somebody happy to be here but you ask me about the best and for me he is the best.”

Liverpool have an eye-catching record against City at their home ground, with the visitors winning just once at Anfield since 2003 – in front of empty stands during the coronavirus pandemic in 2021.

Liverpool vs Manchester City…title decider?

Klopp said playing at home would be a “massive, massive” factor, though he added it was too early to label the match as a title decider.

He was also asked about comments from defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, who said in an interview this week that trophies mean more to Liverpool than to Abu Dhabi-backed City.

“He was born in Liverpool… he played through all the youth teams,” said the Liverpool boss. “What would you think in that situation?

“One of our slogans which I love is ‘This means more’ and it means more to us. We have no clue exactly 100 per cent what it means to other people.

“It’s just how he feels, how we feel and I’ve absolutely no problem with that.”

In January, Liverpool announced that Klopp would step down at the end of the season.

In a short statement on X, the club revealed that the German communicated his decision to leave to the club owners.

AFP

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