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Strategies for Businesses to be More Sustainable for Tomorrow

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By Emmanuel Asika

The world’s natural reserves are fast diminishing at a worrisome speed, almost two times quicker than mother earth can recreate. This figure is projected to be 2.3 times what is sustainable by 2050. Yearly, 50 million tonnes of e-waste contribute to this, which is tantamount to the size of all commercial aircraft ever made.

Hence, achieving a sustainable environment is incumbent on implementing a circular business model like waste reduction, recycling, and regenerating products, and advocating sustainable production processes. Nonetheless, global economy is just 7.2% circular – implying that more ground needs to be covered.

With an essential role expected of multinationals, organizations of every size and sector can still adopt circular business models. Considerably, SMEs are driving platform sharing and collaborative consumption much as start-ups, from the onset, are incorporating circular models.

An excellent example of this seen in Nigeria, where business sustainability focus is circular as propagated by the Nigeria Circular Economy Working Group, a founding member of the Africa Circular Economy Alliance.

Incidentally, HP is deepening sustainability with years of experience. Its operations’ journey, particularly, will be entirely circular, driven by services and products modifications. Below are few approaches to reference:

Getting the Buy-in of the Considerate Consumer 

Customers are getting more aware today than ever. So, businesses that make circularity a priority will accomplish long-term environmental and commercial profits; and ultimately fulfil customer expectations.

While circularity models need upfront funding, it helps to reduce outlays, optimize efficiency, and even discover new revenue sources. To further endear customer trust and loyalty, organizations must offer measurement tools that identify waste prevention and cost optimization mechanisms that help to establish enterprise superiority.

Circular enterprise models also produce profitable results. For instance, our Sustainable Impact Strategy has been boosted by HP’s socio-economic components on climate-focused programs.

HP’s alliance with NGOs to launch an ocean-bound plastics recycling program to help indigenous workers is yielding positives in Haiti. Now, these plastics are fused into HP products design aesthetics, encouraging circularity, and providing revenue and homegrown education opportunities.

Start and continue with the environment as a priority 

As a rule, circular products are designed with environmental considerations from the start. Sustainable sourcing should be among the initial priorities, with concentration on ethical practices and ambitious but attainable goals.

This ties in to ‘Circular Lagos’, a sustainability initiative of the Lagos State government which seeks to design economic value from waste recycling.

As reference case, HP, since 2016 has mandated all its brand papers to be derived from ecologically reusable or certified sources. It was extended to paper-based packaging in 2020 for home and office printers and supplies, PCs and displays.

By 2030, HP’s goal is to become Forest Positive; thereby, eliminating deforestation for non-HP paper used in print services and product lines.

What creates distinction in packaging is innovation. 100% compostable chitin-based materials are a new development, whereas 3D-printed moulded fibre tooling can drive eco-packaging at scale.

Printing improvements, including printing directly onto product cargo boxes and using water-based inks most likely initiate supplementary benefits. HP’s goal is to eradicate 75% of single-use plastic packaging by 2025 compared to 2018―as of 2021, we were halfway there. Commendable Indeed!

Decrease waste, enhance lifecycle 

One vital aspect for electronic devices is energy usage, though this can be puzzling for consumers. Companies and institutions can help customers make valid choices. Also with comparison tools, manufacturers can assist with clear and accurate details on labels, packaging, along with marketing and brand collaterals.

HP supplies are often highly valued for repairability, with institutions like iFixit providing reparability scores and self-repair (DIY) guides. Institutions can help in reducing request for fresh raw supplies by giving extended warranties and ensuring repair options.

Clearly, sustainable customer experience can be improved with ‘as-a-service models’; whilst promoting circularity through company-led takeback; hence, responsible companies aim to be value facilitators via repair and reuse of supplies when customers are done with them.

Significance of closed-loop recycling 

Closed-loop reutilizing plays huge part in circularity, and HP is loaded with initiatives to support it. A good case study is HP’s Planet Partners program that helps to ensure that ink and toner cartridges do not end up in landfills.

Over a billion cartridges have been recycled through this program, a major landmark in 2023. Provisionally, HP’s Evocyle toner cartridges, made from closed-loop recycled plastic, are serving the sustainability goals of customers in France, Germany, and the UK.

In the reuse of a much wider range of resources, we are also getting better. For example, you might find bio-derived content like coffee grounds in monitors or cooking oil in laptop covers.

Partnership−a necessary paradigm for enterprise scaling 

A circular business model is vital. It’s hinged on team play and partnerships with strategic stakeholders – government, suppliers, merchants/dealers etc. Strengthening networks with NGOs, research institutes, and think tanks, also positions serious institutions above contemporaries. Lagos has entrenched the model by introducing initiatives which encourage community members to drop off used plastic bottles and containers at designated recycling points for reuse.

To improve its fibre sourcing and certification programs, HP is collaborating with World Wildlife Fund and the Forest Stewardship Council.

Regardless of where they are on their circularity journey, collaboration certainly benefits all types of companies. Participating in industry bodies, working with manufacturing partners, and ideas exchange with regulators and professional associations can help advance policy influencing, build consensus, and progress legislation.

Institutions with established existing programs perhaps extend their impact by involving their business environment. Another reference now driving change at scale is HP’s Amplify Impact partner program, which has engaged over 3,500 partners worldwide.

Envision the future 

A vision of a more regenerative and sustainable future is presented with the concept of a circular economy. It could boost the global economy by $4.5 trillion by 2030, if executed appropriately, with accountable sourcing and packaging, materials and products that remain in use longer, and closed loop recycling.

Evolution to circularity is now a necessity with no option. To actualize it, we must immediately shift mindsets, embrace circular practices, and cultivate alliance and frameworks essential for success. Bountiful rewards sure await the businesses that leads the way.

Nigeria, the leading importer of electrical and electronic equipment on the African continent which processes over half a million tons of discarded electronics each year, in January 2022, amended its national environmental regulations to tackle the country’s growing e-waste problem.

So, whether you are just starting or already on the path ― the time is here and now to take the next big step. The future is indeed circular, and it’s up to businesses globally to make it come to fruition.

Emmanuel Asika is Country Head, HP Nigeria 


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Top 7 Reliable Virtual Cards for Running Ads in Nigeria

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Meta Description: Tired of ad payment failures? Discover the most reliable virtual cards in Nigeria for running Facebook, Google, and TikTok ads without interruptions.

One of the biggest challenges digital marketers face in Nigeria today is finding a payment method that actually works for ad platforms.

Issues like frequent transaction failures, unexpected restrictions, and constantly changing bank policies can interrupt your campaigns at the worst possible time, making it hard to stay consistent.

That’s why many marketers are now turning to virtual cards, which offer a more stable, globally accepted way to handle online payments without the usual stress.

If you’re currently dealing with failed payments or need a more reliable way to run ads, this article will walk you through the most reliable virtual card options in Nigeria and help you choose what works best.

7 Best Virtual Cards You Can Use in Nigeria for Running Ads

Choosing the right virtual card for running ads in Nigeria isn’t just about availability; it’s about transaction success rate, global acceptance, funding speed, fees, and overall reliability.

To make things easier, the table below highlights how Cardtonic, Wallets Africa, CashBuddy, Snappypay, Pouchers, Bitmama, and Flip by Fluidcoins compare across key features that matter for running ads effectively.

PlatformBest ForPrice rangeSupported CountriesNotable Features
CardtonicReliable ad payments$1.5-$5 (card creation)Nigeria, Ghana (2+)Easy card creation, quick funding, widely accepted
Wallets AfricaBasic virtual card use$2-$5 (est.)10+ African countrieswallet + virtual card system
CashBuddySimple payments$2.50Nigeria (primary)straightforward card access, bill pay
SnappypayQuick transactionsN/ANigeria & select regionsFast setup, easy online spending
PouchersFlexible funding$2Nigeria & limited globalDirect wallet to ads support
BitmamaCrypto-based paymentsFree issuanceMultiple countries (10+)crypto funding + global spending
Flip by FluidcoinsFast crypto payments$1.30Multiple Countries (10+)Crypto payment focus

1. Cardtonic:

Cardtonic is often regarded as one of the best virtual cards in Nigeria for running ads because it combines convenience, reliability, and ease of use in a way that suits both individuals and businesses.

When you’re paying for ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Google, or TikTok, one of the biggest concerns is whether your payment method will work smoothly without constant declines or interruptions. That is where Cardtonic comes in, as it gives users access to a virtual dollar card designed for international payments, making it a practical choice for ad spending.

What makes the platform even more appealing is that it also offers contactless cards, which let you make payments quickly and securely without swiping or inserting the card. This feature adds an extra layer of convenience for users who want fast transactions, whether online or at supported payment terminals.

What truly makes Cardtonic stand out is how it brings together accessibility, smooth funding, and reliable international payment support in one place.

So, if you are looking for a reliable platform for ad payments, Cardtonic is one option that clearly deserves a spot on the list.

2. Wallet Africa:

Wallets Africa is meant for users who want more than just a card to pay for ads. It works better as an all-in-one financial platform, which makes it useful for business owners, freelancers, and marketers who like managing payments from one place.

Beyond offering virtual cards, the platform is built around sending money, spending online, and handling digital transactions across Africa, so it feels broader than a tool meant for one single purpose.

That broader structure is really where Wallets Africa plays its role. For someone running ads regularly, it can be convenient to have a platform that supports both wallet functions and card payments instead of jumping between different apps.

It is less about being flashy and more about giving users a practical setup for online spending, especially when you want your ad payments to sit within a wider money management system.

3. Cashbuddy:

CashBuddy feels more like a platform for users who value simplicity and speed. Its offering goes beyond virtual cards into other digital payment services, but the virtual card side is positioned around secure dollar and naira card access for global payments.

That makes it useful for advertisers who want something straightforward for campaign payments without dealing with too much complexity.

Where CashBuddy plays its role best is in accessibility. It fits users who may not need an advanced financial ecosystem but just want a platform that helps them get a working card and handle international payments with less stress.

So while some platforms lean into broader wallet features or multicurrency tools, CashBuddy feels more like the practical option for getting started and keeping things easy to manage.

4. Snappypay:

Snappypay has a slightly different appeal because it presents itself strongly around smooth online payments and virtual dollar cards that can be used across many platforms.

That makes it a natural fit for people who run ads often and do not want a card that feels limited to only one or two use cases. The platform also combines its virtual cards with other digital payment services, which adds to the convenience for users already handling several online expenses at once.

What makes Snappypay useful in this list is that it feels built for everyday digital spending. If Wallets Africa comes across as more ecosystem-driven and CashBuddy feels more basic and direct, Snappypay sits in the middle as the platform for users who want a smoother, more flexible payment experience for ads, subscriptions, and other online transactions without overcomplicating the process.

5. Pouchers:

Pouchers is one of the more ad-friendly options here because it explicitly positions its virtual dollar card for payments on platforms like Meta and for running ads.

That makes its role in this list much clearer. Instead of leaving users to guess whether the card may work for ad spend, the platform directly presents that use case as one of its strengths, which gives it more relevance for marketers and business owners.

Another thing that makes Pouchers different is its multicurrency and stablecoin angle, which gives it a more modern, borderless feel compared with platforms that are built mainly around local wallet operations.

So, for users whose work already involves international payments, online tools, and ad platforms, Pouchers plays its role as the flexible option that is shaped more around digital commerce than traditional payment habits.

6. Bitmama:

Bitmama plays a more specialized role because it is better known for combining crypto and borderless payments. That already sets it apart from the more conventional platforms on this list.

For advertisers or freelancers who are already comfortable moving money through digital assets, Bitmama can feel like a more flexible option, especially when international transactions are part of their normal workflow.

This makes it less of an everyday beginner platform and more of a fit for users who like operating in a more global, digital-first payment environment.

So while a platform like CashBuddy may appeal to someone looking for a simple starting point, Bitmama feels more suited to users who want ad payments to sit within a wider international or crypto-enabled setup. That difference gives it a distinct place on the list.

7. Flip By Fluidcoins:

Flip by Fluidcoins leans into the crypto-powered side of digital payments, positioning itself as a faster, more lightweight option for users who want flexibility with cross-border transactions.

Its strength is not in trying to cover everything, but in serving a more niche group of users who already understand digital finance and need a smoother way to handle international payments, especially for ad spending.

What sets it apart is its modern, alternative approach. It focuses less on traditional banking features and more on giving users fewer restrictions when moving funds globally.

For advertisers in that space, it works best as a flexible, niche solution rather than a full all-in-one financial platform.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Cards For Running Ads in Nigeria

  1. Which Virtual Card is Best For Running Ads in Nigeria?

The best dollar virtual card in Nigeria for running ads is Cardtonic. It’s widely trusted for its reliability, smooth international payments, and ease of use, making it a practical choice for managing ad spend without interruptions.

  1. Can I Use a Virtual Card to Pay for Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or TikTok Ads?

Yes, you can. Most virtual cards issued by platforms in Nigeria, like Cardtonic, Pouchers, or CashBuddy, are accepted on major advertising platforms, including Google, Facebook, and TikTok.

  1. How Do I Fund a Virtual Card for Advertising Campaigns in Nigeria?

Funding a virtual card is usually straightforward. Most platforms allow you to load funds from your local bank account, Naira wallet, or even crypto wallets in some cases. Simply log into your virtual card account, choose the funding method, enter the amount, and confirm. Once the funds reflect, you can start running ads immediately.

  1. Are Virtual Cards Secure For Paying International Ad Platforms?

Yes, virtual cards are designed to be secure. They often include features such as temporary card numbers, spend limits, and the ability to block or freeze the card instantly if needed.

  1. How Fast Can I Get a Virtual Card and Start Running Ads Online?

You can usually get a virtual card almost instantly after signing up and completing the KYC verification process. Platforms like Cardtonic or Snappypay issue cards immediately, so you can fund the card and start running ads within minutes.

Conclusion

Running ads on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, or Google from Nigeria can be challenging without a reliable payment method. That’s why virtual cards offer a convenient and secure solution, allowing you to fund your campaigns quickly and manage payments without interruptions.

Whether you’re looking to pay for TikTok ads, Google Ads, or other online campaigns, platforms like Wallets Africa, CashBuddy, Snappypay, Pouchers, Bitmama, and Flip by Fluidcoins all offer options to suit different needs.

For those who want a combination of reliability, ease of use, and smooth international payments, Cardtonic is highly recommended for managing your ad spending efficiently.

 


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NiRA Charges Media to Drive Nationwide Adoption of .ng Domain

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Adesola Akinsanya, President of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association, has called on the media to lead a nationwide campaign for the urgent adoption of the .ng domain to strengthen Nigeria’s digital identity.

NiRA Charges Media to Drive Nationwide Adoption of .ng Domain

Adesola Akinsanya, President of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA)

Akinsanya made the call during the .ng Media Advocacy and Capacity Building Initiative held on Thursday at the association’s secretariat in Lagos.

He said the media had a strategic role to play, not only in reporting developments but also in shaping national priorities and influencing public understanding of digital infrastructure.

“The media does not just report events; it sets the agenda. We need you to lead the campaign for the urgent adoption of .ng and help Nigerians understand why it matters,” he said.

Akinsanya emphasised that Nigeria’s digital identity must be deliberately constructed and protected, noting that domain names remain a critical component of national presence in the global digital ecosystem.

According to him, many Nigerian businesses and institutions continue to operate on foreign domains such as .com and .org, thereby placing their digital assets outside the country’s jurisdiction.

“Thousands of Nigerian organisations are effectively operating on rented digital land, where control, security, and governance are subject to foreign regulations,” he said.

He explained that the .ng domain, managed by NiRA under the global coordination of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, represents an important layer of Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

He described domain names as digital real estate that determine visibility, credibility, and economic value creation within the digital economy.

The NiRA president warned that reliance on foreign domains contributes to a trust deficit, economic leakage, and increased security vulnerabilities.

“In an era where users are increasingly concerned about authenticity, locally identifiable domains provide stronger assurance and alignment with national systems,” he said.

Akinsanya added that while technological improvements such as DNS Security Extensions are strengthening the .ng ecosystem, widespread adoption remains essential.

He noted that the initiative was designed to bridge the gap between technical complexity and public understanding, particularly in areas such as internet governance, cybersecurity, and domain infrastructure.

According to him, Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global digital economy will depend on the alignment of infrastructure, adoption, and narrative.

He reaffirmed NiRA’s commitment to strengthening digital infrastructure and promoting the use of the .ng domain, while calling for sustained collaboration with the media.

“The story of Nigeria’s internet is still being written. Whether it reflects dependence or sovereignty will depend on the narratives we promote,” he said.


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NiRA Unveils DNSSEC to Tackle Rising Cyber Threats, Strengthen Digital Trust

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L–R: Mr. Ahmad Mukoshy, Director, Nigeria Internet Registration Association Executive Board; Mrs. Seyi Onasanya, Chief Operating Officer, NiRA; Ogbuefi (Remmy Nweke), Member, NiRA Board of Trustees; Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, President, NiRA; Dr. Adebiyi Oladipo, Member, NiRA Board of Trustees; and Mr. Habeeb Wahab, Head, Technical Services, NiRA during the unveiling of .ng signing of DNSSEC.
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Nigeria has unveiled Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) on its .ng domain, marking a major step toward strengthening national cybersecurity and enhancing trust in the country’s digital ecosystem.

Nigeria Unveils DNSSEC to Tackle Rising Cyber Threats, Strengthen Digital Trust

L–R: Mr. Ahmad Mukoshy, Director, Nigeria Internet Registration Association Executive Board; Mrs. Seyi Onasanya, Chief Operating Officer, NiRA; Ogbuefi (Remmy Nweke), Member, NiRA Board of Trustees; Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, President, NiRA; Dr. Adebiyi Oladipo, Member, NiRA Board of Trustees; and Mr. Habeeb Wahab, Head, Technical Services, NiRA during the unveiling of .ng signing of DNSSEC.

The deployment was carried out by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association, the body responsible for managing Nigeria’s country code top-level domain.

The development places Nigeria among countries adopting advanced technologies to secure their internet infrastructure and support a resilient digital economy.

DNSSEC is an internet security protocol designed to protect users from cyber threats such as redirection to fraudulent websites, by adding cryptographic verification to the domain name system.

Speaking at the unveiling, the President of NiRA, Adesola Akinsanya, described the deployment as a defining moment for Nigeria’s internet ecosystem.

“The successful deployment of DNSSEC on the .ng domain represents a major milestone. As more services move online, it is critical to ensure a secure and trusted digital environment for citizens, businesses, and government,” he said.

Akinsanya added that the initiative aligns with global best practices and underscores Nigeria’s commitment to building a secure and competitive digital economy.

He noted that strengthening trust in the .ng domain would create an enabling environment for innovation, investment, and growth in digital services.

According to him, a secure domain name system is fundamental to the development of the digital economy.

The NiRA president also urged organisations, particularly those operating critical services, to adopt DNSSEC as part of their cybersecurity frameworks.

The initiative is expected to benefit sectors such as financial services, telecommunications, e-commerce, and government platforms by offering enhanced protection against cyber threats including phishing and data interception.

Institutions regulated by bodies such as the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigerian Communications Commission are among those expected to gain from the improved security framework.

The deployment also aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda supported by agencies such as the National Information Technology Development Agency and the Office of the National Security Adviser.

The Chief Operating Officer of NiRA said the .ng domain had been fully signed and was currently in a monitoring phase to ensure stability and optimal performance.

He added that a phased rollout would allow accredited registrars and domain owners to adopt DNSSEC protection for their individual domains.

“This deployment is the result of extensive planning and collaboration. Our focus now is to ensure seamless adoption across the ecosystem,” he said.

NiRA called on businesses and organisations to leverage the new capability and embrace the .ng domain as a secure and trusted digital identity.

The association said it would continue to work with stakeholders to drive awareness, build capacity, and accelerate adoption nationwide.


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