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Solar Power Supply Can Work in Nigeria – Odunowo

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AbdulRahman Abiola-Odunowo, is the managing director/CEO of Private Networks Nigeria Limited (PNN).   The graduate of chemistry from the University of Dundee, Scotland, got involved in telecoms in 1992 while working for New Generation Advertising and has been with PNN since 1995. He has attended various programmes within and outside Nigeria. He spoke to funmi ilesanmi.

PNN’s Role in Telecommunications and Energy Sectors in Nigeria
We are the one-stop-shop for the deployment and management of technology solutions for both the telecommunications and energy sectors of the economy. Our focus is on delivering quality products and services to our customers. We play an active role in these two sectors because we provide services from the planning stage through deployment, operations and management stages. We have also invested a lot into research and development because we are consistently striving to do things in a more efficient and cost effective manner. Our customers are very demanding and we must stay on top our game to satisfy them.
Need for Telcos to Outsource Some of their Operations
They already do that. Telecom operators cannot help but outsource those services. The task of providing network to subscribers is quite overwhelming and operators will continue to use best practice to get the best service quality. Outsourcing is one of them. As early as 2003, PNN had pioneered the outsourcing of the entire network deployment by executing a build, operate and transfer (BOT) frame agreement with Zain Nigeria (formerly Econet) for expansion into Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, and Ilorin, Kwara State. Under this model, PNN was responsible for the planning, deployment, operations as well as sales and distribution of operator products.
PNN and Delivering Quality Network Design, Optimization and Implementation
Our track record speaks adequately for us. Over the years we have specialized in providing first class service in design, roll out, management and performance improvement of the wireless network. We ensure that the operator offers best in class service to their customers while also maximising return on their network infrastructure investment. Our teams of experienced engineers have successfully delivered its full range of services to a wide variety of cellular operators around the world. We effectively provide cell planning, coverage expansion, core network design, network thinning, and network optimization services. We also offer radio network audit, network improvement and benchmarking as well as core network audit, core network improvement, network management, competence transfer and consultancy.
How Alternative Power Generation Help businesses
PNN offers a series of hybrid solutions integrating renewable sources of energy such as water, wind and solar to provide innovative power solutions that ideally suit all of the pre-requisites and operational boundaries our customers hope to achieve. We are in the forefront of delivering cost efficient products and services to help reduce the overall energy costs as well as reduce our nation’s dependence on fossil fuels. These solutions would also reduce our carbon foot print in the earth’s environment, and act as protection against rising energy costs.
Apart from the overall benefits the use of alternative energy would offer, telecommunications service providers in Nigeria, using our DC power solution can save up to 65 percent in current operational expenses; their businesses would be more cost effective because of comparative capital expenditure. They would also have very low system maintenance as well as reduced fuel consumption. All of these benefits would invariably translate to a reduction in the tariffs Nigerians currently pay for communication. We are fully equipped in the design and installation of alternative energy using our natural resources efficiently and effectively.
Can Solar Really Work in Nigeria
Absolutely. The use of solar as a means of generating energy for power supply can work in Nigeria if we can get the design right from the onset. And let me quickly add that Nigeria is quite ready for this. We know this because in PNN we have been involved in the research and development of solar power as a cheaper, more cost effective, reliable and durable alternative for the generation and provision of power that can be used for applications such as street lights. Because we understand what the generation of power using solar energy entails, we can provide a 5 year warrantee for all solar street lighting deployed by us.
Solar street Lights as Part of Corporate Social Responsibility
As a corporate organization, it has always been important to us to make contributions that would have a positive and direct impact on people’s lives. In Nigeria today, the power situation is still very epileptic in spite of the various attempts by several administration at providing constant power supply. Often times, activities literarily grind to a halt from 7.00pm because the people are afraid to move around at night, especially when the streets are not lit. This drastically affects the social and economic lives of the citizenry. That was the basis for the deployment of solar lights on Oremeji Street in Ilupeju area of Lagos. We wanted to make the people in that neighborhood feel safe enough to go about their businesses at anytime of the day.  The project which cost us over N7million to deploy was also a way for us to support the Lagos State Government in its megacity project.
Partnership with Speakeezee
As you may know, Speakeezee mobile stores have been around since 1992 and have remained consistent in offering intelligent cutting edge services. However over the years it has become obvious that mobile technology is evolving at a pace that needs a dynamic and forward looking outfit to adapt to the ever increasing change in the telecoms industry. The decision to develop Speakeezee retail brand with PNN is based on the fact that the management of PNN has shown an understanding of what the Speakeezee brand stands for and what the expectation of Speakeezee clients are. We believe that the synergy with PNN will further enable Speakeezee deliver excellent value and first class services to the door step of Nigerians, and indeed Africans who have consistently yearned for quality and independent service offerings
Coping with Insufficient Skilled Manpower
I have always maintained that the greatest challenge to delivering quality service is the dearth of highly skilled capacity in the country. It is sad but, true. That is why we partner with institutions to initiate engineering training programmes that will help Nigeria bridge the digital divide. For example, we are currently working on one of such partnerships with Yaba College of Technology. We would give you the details soon.
PNN Group to in the Next Two Years
We have great plans for the future, with staff strength of over 350, and offices in four African countries; Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda and Rwanda. We have plans to be in a total of 10 countries in Africa by 2010. Over the next 2 years, we intend to grow the business by achieving a minimum of 35 percent growth yearly. PNN intends to list on the Nigerian capital market also by 2010. We have recently concluded plans to start the production of LED lights in Nigeria and we hope to have our products in the market within the next 2 years. A lot is happening and we are excited about the future.
Economic Recession and the Future
Nigeria still has a great future. Economic recession is only for a season. It behoves on us as a country to maximize our resources. We have always advocated that Nigerians should look inwards, well the time is now.

 


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Dufil Takes Donation of Indomie Noodles Cartons to Vulnerable Communities in Abuja and Environ

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In line with its commitment to provide critical support to indigent members of communities around the country in the face of the ongoing economic challenges, Dufil Prima Foods Limited, makers of Indomie Instant Noodles, in partnership with Golan Helps Abuja Food Bank Initiative (GHAFBI) and Meluibe Foundation on Wednesday, April 17 distributed Indomie noodles cartons to vulnerable communities in Kuje and Kubwa Local Government Areas in Abuja.

With the goal of alleviating hunger and supporting communities across Nigeria, Indomie Instant Noodles has committed to donating a substantial quantity of noodle packs to various NGOs working tirelessly to address food insecurity.

These organizations play a crucial role in reaching remote and underserved areas, ensuring that nutritious meals reach those who need them most.

“We are deeply committed to making a positive impact in the communities where we operate,” said Olusola Olayinka Idowu OON, former Permanent Secretary, Budget and National Planning, and the CEO/Founder of GHAFBI.

“At GHAFBI, we believe that everyone deserves access to wholesome and nourishing food. Our partnership with Dufil Prima Foods to donate Indomie Noodles packs is a big step towards addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable communities in Abuja”, said Idowu who was also the former National Conveyor, UN Food System Dialogues in Nigeria.

Speaking in the same vein, Obialunanma Nnaobi-Ayodele, Executive Director, The Meluibe Empowerment Foundation, expressed her gratitude to Indomie Noodles for the partnership. “Our vision as an NGO is to change the world one step at a time, by providing relief and support to vulnerable communities.

This is achieved through collaborations and partnerships, one of which is what we have done with Indomie Noodles. We remain grateful for their support through this food relief initiative”, she said.

By partnering with NGOs, Indomie Instant Noodles works closely with local leaders and community heads in directly engaging with rural communities to distribute noodle packs and provide immediate relief to families facing hunger and ensuring that food assistance reaches those who are most in need, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with NGOs and community leaders to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people facing food insecurity”, said Temitope Ashiwaju, Group Corporate Communications and Events Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Limited. “Together, we bring hope, love and relief for all”.

The community leaders and some of the beneficiaries also expressed their immense gratitude to Indomie for the support, stressing the impact the products donated will have in alleviating hunger in their communities.

Speaking at the outreach centre, His Royal Highness, Muhammed D. Jibril, Community Leader of Gbazango Community in Kubwa Local Government Area said: “I am very grateful to Indomie Noodles for coming to our aid in these challenging times. I pray for more expansion and growth for the business and may God bless Indomie Noodles”.

Other communities who benefited from the product donations include Wunmi, Tondo, Godoji and Shazhi communities in Kuje Area Council of Abuja.

Dufil Prima Food’s donation of Indomie Noodle packs underscores its commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to supporting communities in need. By providing essential food relief, Dufil Prima Foods is contributing to the well-being and resilience of vulnerable populations in Nigeria.

Indomie Instant Noodles remains dedicated to bringing joy to mealtimes and making a positive impact in communities around the world.


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Empowering Nigerian Retail: The Promise of Pay on Delivery

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E-commerce in Nigeria has evolved exponentially in recent years, transforming the retail landscape and reshaping consumer habits. From the early days of skepticism and distrust to today’s thriving online marketplaces, the journey has been marked by innovation, adaptation, and perhaps most importantly, the establishment of trust and security between buyers and sellers. At the core of this transformation, Pay on Delivery (PoD) has emerged as the unsung hero of e-commerce.

The premise is straightforward: customers could place orders online and pay for their purchases only upon receipt. This innovative approach not only addressed concerns about security but also provided tangible reassurance to hesitant buyers. In countries like India, Nigeria, and Indonesia, where a significant portion of the population remains unbanked or underbanked and where distrust in online transactions and fraudulent activities were once rampant, Pay on Delivery has emerged as a lifeline for both consumers and businesses. Many consumers were understandably hesitant to part with their hard-earned money before receiving their desired goods. Pay on delivery bridges this trust gap, offering reassurance to buyers and empowering them to transact with confidence.

In Nigeria, despite the adoption of a wide range of electronic payments, cash is still king. The results of a survey conducted in 2021 show that cash remains the dominant payment method, reflecting the ongoing preference for tangible transactions over digital ones. In addition, a recent report by ongoing preference for tangible transactions over digital ones. In addition, a recent report by Oxford Business Group found that 70% of Nigerians prefer to pay with cash on delivery, while 28% use credit or debit cards, and only 12% use mobile money platforms. This has challenged e-retailers, and some companies like Jumia, to adapt by prioritizing cash-on-delivery options to cater to this consumer preference.

The Promise of Pay on Delivery in Nigeria

With consumers in mind, Jumia, the leading e-commerce platform in Nigeria, has made Pay on Delivery a cornerstone of its business model. Understanding the local market dynamics and the importance of trust and convenience, the company has invested heavily in ensuring a seamless Pay on Delivery experience for its customers.

One of the key benefits of Jumia’s Pay on Delivery service is its flexibility. Customers have the option to inspect their purchases before making payment, ensuring satisfaction and reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions. This added layer of security not only enhances the overall shopping experience but also builds long-term trust and loyalty among customers.

Moreover, Jumia has implemented rigorous quality control measures to ensure that products meet customer expectations upon delivery. This includes partnering with reputable brands and implementing stringent verification processes to prevent counterfeit goods from entering the marketplace. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and product quality, Jumia has solidified its reputation as a trusted online retailer in Nigeria.

Beyond enhancing trust and security, Pay on Delivery has also played a crucial role in driving financial inclusion in Nigeria. By providing an alternative payment method for those without access to traditional banking services, Jumia has expanded the reach of e-commerce to a broader segment of the population. This not only benefits consumers by providing greater access to goods and services but also stimulates economic growth by fostering entrepreneurship and driving demand for products and services.

In all, the future of e-commerce in Nigeria looks promising, with Pay on Delivery poised to remain a key enabler of growth and expansion. As technology continues to advance and consumer preferences evolve, innovative solutions like Pay on Delivery will continue to drive the transformation of the retail landscape, empowering Nigerian consumers and businesses alike.

 


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Verra Certifies d.light’s Clean Cookstove Projects in Sub-Saharan Africa

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A series of pioneering projects by d.light, the global provider of transformational household products and affordable finance for low-income households, to distribute 600,000 energy-efficient clean cookstoves in Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda have been officially certified by global verification body Verra.

This certification confirms the d.light projects as trusted, verified sources of high-quality carbon credits in the voluntary carbon markets (VCMs).

The d.light projects aim to simultaneously reduce carbon emissions, tackle indoor air pollution, and reduce deforestation through the sale of highly efficient biomass cookstoves subsidized by the revenues from the sale of carbon credits.

Since their launch in late 2022, the projects have positively impacted more than one million lives and are projected to transform more than three million lives by 2025.

Commenting on the news, Karl Skare, d.light’s Chief Product and Strategy Officer, emphasized the projects’ positive impact, “With these projects, we’re not just addressing environmental concerns but also enhancing quality of life for millions.

“Each project underscores d.light’s commitment to practical, innovative solutions that address both environmental and social challenges, as part of our mission to transform the lives of one billion people by 2030.”

Each year, domestic cooking emissions contribute more than two percent of total global GHG emissions and up to 25 percent of anthropogenic black carbon emissions.

Highly energy-efficient cookstoves solve this problem by reducing biomass use by up to 70 percent compared to traditional cooking methods, cutting emissions of both carbon dioxide and black carbon.

The d.light projects are expected to reduce emissions by up to 12 million tons, contributing to climate change mitigation. These emissions reductions will be registered as carbon credits in the voluntary carbon market.

As well as reducing emissions, clean cookstoves are also a benefit to public health. According to the World Health Organisation, exposure to smoke from cooking fires causes an estimated 3.2 million premature deaths worldwide each year and is still one of the predominant causes of pollution-related illness and death in Africa.

In Uganda, for example, less than one percent of the population has access to clean cooking, household air pollution is the one of the largest risk factors for death and disability.

In addition, switching from traditional three-stone open fires to cleaner, energy-efficient cookstoves significantly reduces deforestation and reduces threats to wildlife and biodiversity caused by habitat loss.

Skare explained, “By subsidizing energy-efficient cookstove costs through carbon financing, d.light makes clean cooking accessible to more households, which in turn leads to healthier living conditions and conserves natural resources as well.

“Our projects in Kenya, Nigeria and Uganda are models of how sustainable investments can yield multiple co-benefits, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and also promoting socio-economic development.

Skare added, “d.light now has projects certified by both Gold Standard and Verra, the world’s two leading certifiers of carbon credits. Organizations looking for ways to offset their own emissions can be confident that when they purchase carbon credits in d.light’s clean cooking projects in sub-Saharan Africa, they are investing in transformative initiatives that reduce harmful emissions, improve people’s health and quality of life, and help conserve the environment as well.”

 


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