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WAACSP Upgrades Virtual Assistant Program To Professional Certification

West Africa Association of Customer Service Professionals (WAACSP) has announced the upgrade of its Virtual Assistant Fundamentals program to a full professional certification.

According to the Head of Administration, WAACSP, Christian Anozie, the development marks a significant milestone in the organization’s commitment to providing high-quality education and training in customer service.

The programme focuses on practical skills development, ensuring that participants are equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel as virtual assistants.

The certification covers various tools, applications, and software used in virtual assistance, enabling participants to stay up-to-date with industry trends.

The programme emphasized best practices for effective virtual assistance, including communication, time management, and problem-solving skills.

WAACSP’s decision to upgrade the Virtual Assistant programme to a professional certification demonstrates its dedication to excellence in customer service education.

The organization has a proven track record of delivering globally recognized certifications, with over 5,000 professionals certified since 2016.

The Professional Certification in Virtual Assistant will provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to build sustainable careers in customer service.

By obtaining this certification, professionals can enhance their career prospects and contribute to the growth and development of their organizations.

Winifred Bosa by — April 16, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0
Mefor Urges Legislation Against Use Of Industrial Oxygen In Anambra Hospitals

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, has stressed the need for legislation to stop use of industrial oxygen in hospitals.
Speaking recently during his courtesy visit to the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Anambra State Oxygen Production Plant, Lady Nwamaka Arinze, at her office in Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Awka, Mefor expressed displeasure over the continued use of industrial oxygen in hospitals instead of pure medical oxygen, pointing out that it’s a very dangerous thing.
According to him, “since it’s proved that industrial oxygen is not good for human consumption, it should be a legislative issue. There should be a law against it; providing a clear punishment. This is because without legislation, our people will still go for what they consider cheap regardless of the final outcome.
“That is one thing I noticed in the South East. They go into wealth without morality. It’s a very dangerous thing. Every penny must be earned in a decent way. You don’t have to put people’s lives in the line because you want extra or quick money. I have seen it everywhere. Everywhere you turn, you see that high premium is placed on money over and above human lives. Ọgbọ Ọgwụ was recently closed by NAFDAC for fake, expired and banned drugs.
“The only way to really curb or contain this is through legislation. And of course, it doesn’t stop at legislation. We also need to enforce the law because sometimes, the problem is not even the absence of law but enforcement. And enforcement in Anambra State has its own challenges,” he said.
The commissioner assured that the Ministry of Information will partner the office to sensitise Ndị Anambra on the dangers of using industrial oxygen in hospitals.
Earlier, the MD/CEO, Anambra State Oxygen Production Plant, Lady Arinze, disclosed that she has the mandate of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to ensure that pure medical oxygen is made available, accessible and affordable to Ndị Anambra, even as she decried the use of industrial oxygen in hospitals.
“I thank God we have been producing pure medical oxygen. We always have standby oxygen in case of emergency. The challenge we are having is trying to educate some doctors who I know that they know that industrial oxygen is not good for human consumption.
“You know here in Nigeria, they only do autopsy for corpses in controversy. For others, if they are given industrial oxygen and they die, you still pay the doctor before you carry the corpse. It is ours to build and not to destroy. It is ours to save lives in any little way we can,” she said.
Online Poster by — April 16, 2025 in News 0
Photo News

L-R: Pastor Chuks Anochie, Resident Pastor of Dominion City, Ajah; Pastor Shola Olapade, Resident Pastor of Dominion City Church, Lagos Headquarters; Pastor Blaise Udunze and Ambassador Henry Agbai, during the press briefing to announce the Church’s annual programme – Camp Meeting 2025, billed for 17th to 21st April with the theme “Revival and Multiplication”—at the Lagos headquarters.
Online Poster by — April 14, 2025 in News 0
Army Decries Poor South East Youth Enlistment Into Military Service

Army Decries Poor Igbo Youths' Enlistment in Military Service
LarryBravo Nwaiwu
The Nigerian Army has raised the alarm over the poor enlistment of South East youths into the military service, and called for a change of attitude to reverse the trend.
According to the Army, while Kaduna State had recorded over 3,000 applications in the ongoing 2025 recruitment exercise, Enugu State was still struggling with just a hundred, noting that the story was not different with other South East states.
It called FC numbers in the ongoing 2025 recruitment exercise to fill their quotas.
The Army made the call in Enugu during an enlightenment town hall meeting with Local Government Council Chairmen, traditional rulers, Presidents-General of town unions, and other community and thought leaders at the weekend.
Leader of the 2025 Army Recruitment Enlightenment Team, Brigadier-General Chima Ekeator, said, “Our people are losing what rightly belongs to them. Each year, whenever a slot is being allocated to our people, we keep noticing that the number of applicants from our side is usually very poor.
“Take for example, Enugu State was given about 200 slots, but the people who made it were never up to 100 due to poor application.  This has also become a recurring decimal in other states in the South East.
“Today’s statistics on the number of applicants show that Kaduna has about 3,000 applicants, while Enugu is still battling with about a hundred; and by the time we will be through with screening, you will not have enough to recruit from the state.”
He refuted the allegation that people of South East origin were being killed in their numbers in the Army because they were the first to be sent to the battle fronts. He added that the region was also holding strategic positions in the Army presently.
“There are a lot of falsehoods out there stating that the Igbo are being killed because they are the first to be sent to the battlefield. These things are not true. After all, we that are here have risen high in the Army and we are telling you that they are lies. Today in the Nigerian Army, our brother is one of the top commanders in charge of equipment. His name is Chibueze Ogbuabor,” he said.
Speaking, the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, regretted that the problem had persisted despite the collective efforts to reverse the trend and called for a review of modes of advertising the opportunities and the need to provide more details about the benefits of serving in the Army.
“While seated here, I was just trying to conduct a very quick research and it appears this same problem is happening worldwide and militaries across the world are deploying more cutting-edge strategies for recruitment because we are talking about the new generation that you communicate in a different way from the past,” he stated.
He reiterated Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to ensuring that the state filled its quota, describing the military as a noble and highly respected profession across the world.
On his part, the Chairman of the Enugu State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, pledged even stronger cooperation of the Local Government Council, but called on the military high command to equally address any concerns of the people to make the service more appealing to the youths.
Also speaking, the State Coordinator, Presidents-General of Enugu State Town Unions, Hon. Arinze Ogbodo; former Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Ambassador Lawrence Agubuzu and the traditional ruler of Nomeh Unataeze, Lieutenant Colonel Israel Mbah (rtd.), called on the youths to enlist in the Army, but stressed the need for more enlightenment.
“I was a military man before. I survived every war. I did mine and today I am a traditional ruler. So, I believe that our young people should join the force,” Mbah stated.
Online Poster by — April 14, 2025 in News 0
Experts Set CSR Agenda At MediaConsortium’s Impacts And Excellence Conference

The city of Lagos recently played host to a gathering of leading voices in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability at the inaugural edition of the MediaConsortium CSR Impacts and Excellence Conference and Awards.

Held at the prestigious Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Alausa, Ikeja, the event convened industry leaders, policy makers, sustainability advocates, and business professionals to explore actionable pathways for CSR-driven organizational growth and societal impact.

Themed “Driving a Sustainable Future: Leveraging CSR for Organisational Growth,” the conference provided a platform for in-depth discussions on how companies can embed CSR into their core strategies and celebrate businesses making outstanding contributions to social and environmental sustainability.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Ekuma Eze, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Rite Foods, Olukemi Ogunsankin emphasized the urgency for businesses to embrace sustainability. “As people become more environmentally concerned, businesses must adapt to stay relevant and responsible,” she said. “Companies that prioritize sustainability and planet stewardship not only help the environment but also enhance their brand image and attract more customers.”

She further highlighted that sustainable practices—such as investing in renewable energy and organic farming—can translate into long-term cost savings and increased profitability.

Dr. Femi Idowu-Adegoke, Special Adviser on One Health to the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, and President of the Lagos Recyclers Association, also addressed attendees. He noted that CSR in Nigeria must evolve beyond charity and become a central business strategy. “In Nigeria, where socio-economic and environmental issues persist, businesses that strategically integrate CSR into their operations can achieve competitive advantage, stakeholder trust, and long-term profitability,” he remarked.

Dr. Idowu-Adegoke stressed that while the government continues to address national challenges, the private sector’s strategic involvement through CSR is indispensable. He encouraged organizations to go beyond token acts and embrace structured, impact-driven CSR initiatives.

A vibrant panel discussion moderated by Clara Okoro, immediate past Chairman of the Brands Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), explored critical questions around effective CSR implementation, challenges faced by companies, and opportunities for deeper impact.

In his welcome address, Adetunji Faleye, Co-Publisher of MediaConsortium Magazine and one of the event conveners, set the tone for the day:
“It is with great pleasure and profound gratitude that I welcome you all to the MediaConsortium CSR Impacts and Excellence Conference 2025,” he said. “Corporate Social Responsibility is no longer just a buzzword; it is a fundamental commitment that forward-thinking organizations must embrace to create lasting impact.”

The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing organizations that have demonstrated excellence in CSR:

PZ Wilmar – Best CSR Initiative in Palm Oil Production

Iron Resources Limited – Sustainable Business Award

Capacious Foods – Outstanding CSR Initiative in Organic Farming

Simba Group – Outstanding CSR Initiative in Renewable Energy

Sifax Group – Outstanding CSR Initiative in Community Development

The conference was a resounding success, reinforcing the need for intentional CSR strategies that not only benefit businesses but also contribute meaningfully to society and the environment. Attendees left inspired to innovate, collaborate, and lead with impact.

Winifred Bosa by — April 12, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0
Sterling Bank Takes Sides With Nigerians

… Eliminates Bank Transfer Fees
 In a bold move that resets the rules of engagement in the Nigerian banking sector, Sterling Bank has removed transfer fees on its digital banking platform, OneBank. This decisive move makes Sterling the first major Nigerian bank to forgo earning a cut from customer transactions on its own app.
The initiative marks a turning point in the industry and reflects the bank’s deep-rooted
commitment to building a future where banking is affordable, accessible, and in tune with the everyday needs of Nigerians.
“This is not a gimmick. This is the future. And it starts now,” said Abubakar Suleiman, Chief
Executive Officer of Sterling Bank, during a press briefing in Lagos. “For years, Nigerians have paid fees just to move their own money. We’re saying no more.”
Suleiman explained that the decision stems from years of digital transformation. The bank builtba custom callback system capable of handling over five million customers, already processing more than 180 million transactions. It also migrated entirely from a legacy European core to a homegrown platform built for scale, and deployed a private cloud environment with capacity
well beyond current and future demand.
“We’ve engineered a platform that can support 50 times our current customer base without breaking a sweat,” Suleiman added. “It’s time to pass the benefits of that transformation back to the people.”
The zero-transfer-fee policy applies exclusively to users of OneBank, Sterling’s flagship digital app. New customers who sign up before April 30 will also receive a complimentary AfriGo debit card and lifetime access to fee-free transfers.
This is more than a product update. It’s an economic statement,” Suleiman said. “We are
taking sides with the customer, with the small business owner, with every Nigerian tired of being nickel-and-dimed by the system.”
Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive leading the Consumer and Business Banking
Directorate, said the policy is both a reward for loyal customers and an invitation to new ones.
“We owe this to the customers who stuck with us through our transformation journey,”
Ukachukwu said. “We are also opening the door to anyone ready to bank differently. If you join us in April, you’re family, so you get the same lifetime benefits.”
He added that Sterling’s next steps would involve layering on even more value in the months ahead, targeting both individuals and businesses with tools that improve financial wellbeing and fuel economic growth.
“We still bear a portion of the transaction costs, including fees payable to other banks. But we’re doing this because we believe it’s right. And if others in the industry follow suit, we all win,” Ukachukwu concluded.
About Sterling Bank
Sterling Bank is a forward-thinking financial institution committed to transforming lives through innovative solutions, exceptional service, unwavering integrity and a steadfast focus on it’s HEART strategy. As pioneers in digital banking and financial inclusion, Sterling continues to lead by example, proving that purpose-driven leadership can unlock transformative outcomes for individuals, businesses, and society at large.
Online Poster by — April 11, 2025 in News 0
Enugu State Electricity Commission Issues Fresh Power License

Enugu State Electricity Commission issues fresh 5MW Power license, says more under wayLarryBravo Nwaiwu
In yet another milestone in its regulatory efforts to boost electricity supply in the state, the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission, EERC, has issued a 5MW power generation license to Tempo Power Solutions Ltd to set up a gas-fired plant.
This brings to a total of 15MW, the worth of power generation licenses issued by EERC since the successful completion of the transfer of regulatory oversight from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, to the agency on October 22, 2024, a feat it was the first state to achieve.
Speaking during the issuance of the license at the EERC office in Enugu, Thursday, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Chijioke Okonkwo, said the milestone reflected the growing confidence that private sector players and investors reposed in the Enugu State electricity sector and in the enabling environment created for electricity business to thrive.
“Tempo Power swiftly took advantage of this opportunity offered by the conducive investment climate in Enugu State, engaged an off-taker and successfully completed the application process for the generation license.
“Their project is a model of proactive engagement and strategic partnership, and the successful deployment of this 5MW power plant is a collective win for all of us. We are confident that as the market grows, Tempo Power will continue to scale up its capacity.
“We acknowledge that this transformation was initiated by the visionary leadership of Governor Peter Mbah through the articulation of the Enugu State Electricity Policy 2023 and the enactment of the Enugu State Electricity Law also in 2023.
“Since we successfully completed the transfer of regulatory oversight from the national regulator (NERC) to EERC on 22nd October 2024, we have issued interim licenses, including an interim distribution license to Mainpower Electricity Distribution Limited and a 10MW generation license to Fedikore Limited.
We have successfully resolved over 60 customer complaint issues and we are equally reviewing four license applications covering generation, electricity distribution and electricity retail,” he stated.
While recognising the arduous work ahead, the EERC Chairman reiterated the Commission’s commitment to working collaboratively with stakeholders – electricity providers, policymakers, financiers, and communities – to deliver reliable, accessible, and sustainable power across the State.
He, therefore, advised other would-be investors to emulate Tempo Power by taking advantage of the abundant energy sources in the state and increasingly business-friendly environment being created by the Mbah Administration.
“Enugu State is open for energy business. We invite investors and developers to harness the wealth of natural energy resources in the State. The enabling environment fostered by the Government has made investment decisions easier and more attractive.
“Enugu State has witnessed transformative improvements that support the electricity sector development, including major upgrades in access roads and infrastructure, enhanced security of lives and property, targeted socio-economic initiatives, among others. These developments form the bedrock for electricity investment and most will serve as anchor loads to extend electricity to our underserved and unserved communities across the State.
“Today, we celebrate with Tempo Power Solutions. And soon, we will also celebrate with other licensees whose applications are undergoing review – across generation, distribution, and retailing of electricity,” Okonkwo concluded.
In his remark, the Exective Director of Tempo Power, Mr Collins Kalabare, commended Mbah for setting the pace in what states could do to solve Nigeria’s energy problem, and the EERC for running a professional and transparent system where investors do not need to know anybody to get things done fast.
“I must appreciate the EERC for the professional, business-minded and openness of their processes and operations. The process is seamless and you do not need to know anybody.
“EERC is indeed working according to the vision and speed of Gov Peter Mbah, who we have learnt is in a hurry to develop and make Enugu State*s economy grow and uplift the general status of residents and businesses.
“As a reputable and responsible company, we will be offering uninterrupted electricity supply, cost reflective tariff and electricity supply meant to add value to commercial and residential concerns as well as grow businesses and general economy of the state,” Kalabari said.
Online Poster by — April 11, 2025 in News 0
Anambra’s ‘Solution Lens’: Bridging the Gap Between Government and the Governed

In a bold move to further deepen transparency and accountability in governance, the Anambra State Government has launched Open Government Partnership (OGP) Action Plan 2, with the unveiling of a tech-driven platform named ‘Solution Lens’. Designed as a citizen-interface tool, the Solution Lens is a response to Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s open government promise; a pledge rooted in the need for a people-centric administration that is accessible, responsive, and participatory.
Unveiled in Awka on April 8, and co-hosted by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning alongside the Anambra State ICT Agency, the event marked a significant step in narrowing the communication gap between government and citizens.
According to the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, the new platform signifies “a new era in Anambra where openness in governance is key.” She emphasized that one of the Governor’s core campaign commitments was to create transparent governance systems where “everybody would be carried along.”
At its core, the Solution Lens is a real-time digital interface designed to provide information about government projects, policies, and development sites. Citizens can now search by ministry or sector, and access verified data on infrastructural developments, budget allocations, and completed or ongoing initiatives.
Mr. Castro Ideke of the ICT Agency noted during a demonstration that the platform enables residents to directly engage government agencies by searching key terms or ministries, from health and education to lands and transportation, and retrieve necessary updates without bureaucratic bottlenecks. “This is how the people can shape governance to their taste,” he said.
In a state like Anambra, where Governor Soludo’s administration has in just three years initiated and completed dozens of roads, school rehabilitations, market infrastructure, digital reforms, and healthcare upgrades, the need for structured citizen feedback and information flow is more critical than ever. The Solution Lens offers a modernized portal to project these achievements transparently.
For instance, the successful construction of over 450 kilometres of roads and another 300 kilometres ongoing, are often unnoticed in remote parts of the state due to lack of awareness. The Solution Lens now offers a space where such projects are properly documented, with geo-tagged locations, timelines, and status updates.
Similarly, the rollout of Soludo’s Education Transformation Agenda, including the digital teacher recruitment process and massive school rehabilitation in public primary and secondary schools, can be tracked by users in real-time, ensuring community ownership of these reforms.
The Solution Lens essentially promotes a two-way communication system. It does not only inform citizens but also allows them to report anomalies, raise questions, or make suggestions. This kind of feedback loop is rare in conventional government settings where policies are top-down and often lack feedbacks.
Involving stakeholders like Town Union representatives, Civil Liberty Organizations, and community leaders at the OGP launch was a clear indication that grassroots ownership is a major target of the initiative. These groups can help relay digital feedback for less tech-savvy citizens.
While the platform presents immense promise, accessibility remains a challenge. The average Anambra resident, especially in rural communities, might not own a smartphone, nor have the digital literacy to navigate such platforms.
According to a 2023 NBS survey, over 58% of rural households in South East Nigeria lack access to smartphones or mobile internet, and a significant portion of the population remains semi-literate. This digital divide could stifle the effectiveness of the Solution Lens if alternative, non-digital access points are not created.
The State Government should therefore consider deploying community ICT kiosks, partnering with religious institutions, local government councils, and youth groups to democratize access to the platform. Additionally, periodic town hall sensitizations using local languages will be critical to ensuring no one is left behind.
As Anambra charts a new course toward e-governance, the Solution Lens can become a beacon of participatory governance, if well implemented. For a government that has shown significant delivery of people-oriented projects, the tool is both a showcase and accountability portal.
However, true success will depend not just on innovation, but on inclusive outreach, continuous feedback, and the political will to act on the voice of the people. The Soludo administration, already known for its bold reforms, has an opportunity to make Anambra a model for open governance in Nigeria not just in idea, but in impact.
Online Poster by — April 11, 2025 in News 0
Anambra State Govt Mourns Former Commissioner, Chief Maja Umeh

ANAMBRA: Govt Grieves The Passing Of Former Commissioner Maja Umeh At 64 - Naija Times
It is with profound sadness that the Government of Anambra State has received the passing of Chief Maja Umeh, a former Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism in Anambra State.
Law Mefor, Commissioner for Information, Anambra State, stated in a release that Chief Umeh’s contributions to Anambra State’s growth and development in his time were profound. His legacies serve as a reminder of the power of dedicated public service and community engagement.
As Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Chief Umeh worked assiduously to promote Anambra State’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential while staying the course of Public Information Management. His efforts helped to project and sustain the state’s image and reputation as well as foster community development.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Chief Maja Umeh’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time, he said.
May his soul rest in peace.
Online Poster by — April 10, 2025 in News 0
 Beware: No Ongoing NIN Revalidation In Anambra  

BEWARE: NO ONGOING NIN REVALIDATION IN ANAMBRA - Anambra Times
The attention of the Anambra State Government has been drawn to the activities of some individuals and groups who collect National Identification Numbers (NIN) from individuals in various communities in Anambra State under the guise that the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) requires them for revalidation or issuance of permanent Identity Cards.
However, a statement made  available by Law Mefor PhD, Commissioner for Information, Anambra state stated that inquiries with the NINC have confirmed that there is no such exercise going on, while further investigations have also revealed that these are criminals hired by some desperate politicians to hijack people’s Voter Cards using their names and personal details contained in their NINs.
With the NINs and the unsuspecting people’s personal details, they can override the individuals’ Voter’s Cards and issue themselves and their cohorts fresh Voter’s Cards. The further implication is that whereas they can vote on behalf of the owners during elections, having stolen their identities, the real owners cannot vote because the database no longer recognises them as the true owners.
The government therefore advises anyone asked to submit his/her NIN to call the Anambra State security number, 5111, for their apprehension and other necessary actions.
Online Poster by — April 9, 2025 in News 0