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We Leverage on ICT for Effective Delivery – Chikezie

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Ralph Chikezie, a renowned business administrator and logistician, is the managing director and chief executive officer of Union Express Limited, a Subsidiary of Union Registrars Limited, and a member of Union Bank Group Plc, one of the biggest financial organizations in Africa. He was the former vice president and chief executive officer of Central Logistics and Support Services Limited, with about 16 years experience in the courier industry. Chikezie, a member of Institute of Directors of Nigeria and an alumnus of Philips Business School, Stellamboch University, South Africa, has attended several training in logistics and supply chain management both in the United Kingdom and in Nigeria. In this interview with nkechi david-iwuchukwu, he talked about new innovations in Union Express and other industry issues.

Union Express and other players in the industry
Union Express is a unique player in the industry, based on the fact that we are Union Bank Group and we have a unique product to sell. The courier company is an assembly of professionals from different courier companies. It commenced operations on October 29, 2007, and is duly licensed by the Nigerian Postal Service to operate Courier Services locally and internationally. It is now that Union Express started because we have done several research and discovered what consumers want. We have introduced tracking system, and other special products like; industrial purchase services and bike hire services. In fact what we are planning to leverage on is Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to ensure we better our environment, that is why I said we have a unique product to sell.
Banks Interest in Courier
Banks interest in courier is a venture, it is like the banks interest in every other business. Courier operators in Nigeria are now striving to meet the standard of global courier operators. It is like every other business the banks feel they can venture into. It is a welcome development, about two or three have entered and I hope others will follow suit. We the old players appreciate the interest which the banks are showing because it will make the business lucrative, responsible and more corporate.
Unique Selling Point
Our unique selling point is the ICT we have embarked on. For example, right now mails are delivered on time and Proof of Delivery (POD) is issued immediately to the customer. In industrial support services, we help industries to move their raw materials. Also we leverage on the 386 branches of Union Bank to provide services to remote places. Presently, we are making arrangements with the embassies to assist them to issue visa to Nigerians in remote places. We are still researching and we believe that more innovations will be brought into the courier industry through Union Express. Also the courier company is well represented in over 13 state capitals of the federation from where we deliver to over 1,000 cities and towns in the country. 
We ensure that shipments are handled with operational excellence from the point of pick-up to the point of delivery. We also provide customers with tracking facilities to enable customers ascertain the position of their shipment at all times. However, the courier company specializes in the delivery of Capital Market Documents and General Courier Services, for example;  Annual General Meeting Reports, Extra-Ordinary General Meeting Notices, Public Offer Parcels, Share Certificates, Dividend Warrants and Rights Circulars. We also offer special benefits to customers like; Free Pick-ups Service, Monthly Credit, Special Discount on Volume, Proof of Delivery, Insurance of shipment in transit,  and Speedy Customs Clearance.
Professionalism in the Industry
Professionalism is the key in any industry and we believe it will be a very good tool to give the industry a corporate look. We are pleading with the government to bring the courier reform plan agenda on board. Right now there is no training school on logistics for operators in the courier industry but we have NCC organizing for operators in the ICT industry and Institute of Transport in Zaria, organizing for operators in the transport industry. Association of Nigeria Courier Operators( Anco) is planning to set up a training school, to train and also have a recruitment centre for various departments, from courier to clericals, customer service, marketers, and things like that. As a member of the association, I am hopeful that in the next one year, things will materialize and in our movement with government, the ministry of education and others, we will be able to become certified as soon as possible. Presently individually we are trying to train and re-train our staff in new developments in the courier industry. Also the Courier Regulatory Department (CRD) has a quarterly compulsory training for operators in the industry and it is a pre-requisite for renewing our license. However, some of us that can afford it travel abroad for advance training like that of last year was held in Germany and the one for this year will be held in Denmark. Very soon it will come to play once we have the Nigeria  Institute of Transport Technology (NITT) offering training in logistics for operators in the courier industry.
Financing the Industry
In Nigeria to finance any industry is difficult because of the credit position of banks. One of the challenges is finance because courier is capital intensive, however once an industry gets a corporate look finance will be easy. For now finance is a big challenge because of the cost of buying trucks, bikes and human capital. We have to keep to a standard by delivering mails on time and this involves a lot of money but we will soon overcome it once a corporate outlook is given to the industry.
Postal Service Commission
The postal service commission is a welcome development. We have gotten the first reading and  the first public hearing, for everybody in the industry including Nipost, they say it is a welcome development. We are pleading with the government to fast track their effort to bring the commission in place. To me courier and postal is everybody’s business, so we are all stakeholders. But for players, those who have taken it as their work should be considered to be among board members in the commission. The problem we have in delivering mails is the problem of numbering in some streets but when we have a commission there will be a department where complaints will be lodged. The Commission should look at having a data bank where information can be provided, so that whoever is delivering a letter can do it with ease.
Challenges Faced
The major challenge is finance, another is postal code and street addresses and training. Also a regulatory body that is independent is very important, all these are key factors that will make the courier industry a developed environment. Another challenge is that software developers are not looking into the industry but I believe that when the market is open, a lot of them will be interested in the industry because it is a big market. At a time we were looking at purchasing a software from Athens  in Greece but thank God we found one in Nigeria. If all these things are in place, the environment will become a better playing field for players in the industry.
 


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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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