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Half-baked Reality TV, Count me Out – Murray Bruce

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Guy Murray-Bruce, president of Silverbird Entertainment, a novel and stylish multi-functional unit, exudes passion for broadcasting

His exposure to radio management has exposed him to the challenges of a competitive growth in an emerging market, and he knows more than most that competition is a healthy part of business.

Silverbird Expansion Programme

Yes it is. We’ve been given licenses to operate in four cities: Awka, Benin, Jos and Yenogoa; both radio and television and we are in the process of setting up these stations in these regions before the end of the year.

Cost of Expansion

I can’t discuss facts and figures with you but it’s a lot of money and we are spending prudently.

Differentiation

Well, some of the programmes will be on re-transmission. Some would be daily broadcasts; some would have its own local content depending on the region where they are.

Establishing Own Pay TV Platform

No, we’re just focusing on terrestrial for now. Pay TV is a different ball game entirely.

And we just want to expand our terrestrial across the nation first before we go into any other side of business.

Silverbird TV Stands Out From Other Channels

It depends on who’s watching. I think good quality programming be it foreign or local, gets the eyeballs, gets the viewers attached to their TV sets and that’s critical. As a result, gets a fair market share. That’s what’s paramount in the business. If you establish a station just specifically for glamour and no financial rewards, you’re just there for entertainment only, nothing else and that’s a different story. But we’re here for both reasons: for entertainment and also to get a huge market share; which I’ve explained, of course.

Major Challenges

The big challenge we have, I think would be power supply. I think that affects everybody in the whole nation, in all walks and parts of life. Power is critical in one’s existence and certainly affects our business. Right now you hear the hum in the background. It’s the generator. As a result, we are polluting air and I don’t like it but we have no choice. When you the pollute air, it affects the lives of younger and older people who have respiratory problems and could easily die from it. You see, when there’s no power we’re indirectly killing people without even knowing it; the elderly, the young who have respiratory problems. You have pollution in the air. What for? Because, there’s no power. Look at the long term result of this problem; it’s a serious hazard to our health. It’s not just a financial drain; it’s a health drain too. So, that’s a huge challenge for us.

Other Challenges

I think human resource too is a challenge and that’s a challenge in any industry. You want to get the best professionals in the broadcasting industry, you have to train and groom them. There’s a dearth in resources and where you want to get the talents from. I think we need to train our people to be the best in the industry. It is a problem, a challenge; every country has been through this and Nigeria should not be any exception. We are going through a phase. America went through this after the great recession, I would imagine, in the 30s. So we’re coming out of that here too. But all the same, Nigeria is a very strong country. People here have the zeal and enthusiasm. They make sure they go the extra mile to get the job done. That’s what’s lovely about Nigeria, its fantastic!

Raising the Workforce

Well, first of all, don’t forget we’re just one TV station here in Lagos, Silverbird TV. The next step for us now is to embark on heavy training of staff for our expansion. That’s the only way we can go forward; that’s where we’re going now, we’re going to commence heavy training; we’re going to get the best consultants in the world to train our guys so we can move forward and set the standards for the industry.

Editorial Control

Well, we have an editorial board here in the station and I think our guys are diligent and careful in what they put out there for people to hear. The editorial challenges are no different from power challenges in the country; to me they’re all the same. They’re all of different levels of whatever you think of it. But we have great broadcasters here who are decent and understand the industry and they make sure they take good care; whatever they put out to the people is what’s best for the people. They have to sift through a lot of things before they put out.

Really

Yes, they have to because if you’re not careful, your jaws will kill you too

Boosting Productions

First of all, we’re coming up with independent programmes like the one you’re watching right now; it began on STV six months ago. Believe it or not, it has staff strength of about 60 people; all the way from the guy at the top to the guy at the bottom. It’s very costly to produce a programme; it doesn’t look like it’s costly but it is. Cost of production is very high in Nigeria and when you look at it; it doesn’t tally with what you get in return. You just ask yourself is it worth it? And that’s what independent producers go through and I feel for them. If you’re to run the studio every single day and have no returns back, you go bankrupt and that’s what the average independent producer goes through. We’re fortunate, it’s ours. Imagine if you have to rent it everyday; you pay for everything everyday and no revenue coming in. Those are one of the challenges in the industry that we’re faced with. Luckily, that’s not our only business; we have a radio station, so that’s part of our business but production in Nigeria’s getting very expensive and it’s going to get more expensive-the quality of our presenters, the quality of our actors are getting better. They’re getting paid more a lot more as a result; cost of production is a lot higher. Unfortunately, the revenue is not coming up high as the production is coming up high . So, when you have that scenario you ask yourself, what do I do next? But you’re there for the long call; you’re not there for the short run. If you’re a long distance runner, you’ll achieve it.

Local Content

It’s come a long way from what they were 10 years ago; still not where it’s supposed to be; it can get a lot better. Nigerians produce a lot of content for television and radio and movie industry. Look at Nollywood, that’s an example of how it is. How do you make a movie in one week; you get all the actors and everybody and in one week done? But the point is, you have to start from somewhere. They’re doing it the way they can, eventually they’ll get there; they’ll be as big as Hollywood and Bollywood. Bollywood wasn’t that great some years back but now they’re better than most countries. Bollywood has come a long way from what it was 20 years ago; it was probably like Nigeria’s Nollywood or worse. Now, it’s (Bollywood) second best. So there’s still an opportunity here for the broadcasting or entertainment industry in Nigeria to get a lot better like their foreign counterparts. I don’t think we’re far apart now; we just need to pull our resources together to make that happen.

Too Many Reality Shows on TV

Well, that’s a different story entirely. The reality shows here; some of them are okay and some of them are crap, that’s the bottom-line. I’m not going to be specific. Everything’s called reality and then, nothing’s real. I don’t know, I guess I’m not much of a reality TV fan except its well produced. If it’s half-baked, I’m not interested. But I see the enthusiasm for it. I guess it’s like anything else; it’s got to be nurtured. We’re trying to be like Hollywood, at the same time we’re not there. So, it is an imitation of something that’s not quite what it’s supposed to be. Most reality shows I see on TV are half-baked but as a matter of fact, in time they’ll get better. It’s a waiting game.

What Do You Enjoy Watching?

I like watching STV, I won’t lie to you. That’s the honest truth. I’m not trying to be biased because I run the station but I just find the programmes, especially prime time, very interesting. I like it because it fits my profile; I guess that’s what it is. People like different things, that is why they tune to other stations. It’s a choice you make in life. I just love my STV; it’s comfortable. I feel comfortable watching STV, I feel relaxed, I feel in tune, I feel entertained. It rejuvenates me, it gives me hope. I look forward to the next day when I watch STV funny enough, because I’m looking forward to the next day’s show. You know, feel like you’re in a comma and it wakes you up.

Broadcasting and Promoting Peace in the Niger Delta

I think, first of all there must be unity in the country. There’s a marked disparity between the rich and the poor. Once the people start having an income, all these problems would stop. The reason why I believe, there’s so much problem in the Niger Delta is the haves and the have-nots. The have-nots are complaining basically because they don’t have. They are being deprived of what’s rightfully theirs and when this happens, they take extreme measures because they don’t have anything at all. And this problem’s as a result of lack of education and I won’t say laziness but they just think it’s theirs just for the asking. It’s wrong but I think with education, all these things will come to an end. With education and good employment, we shouldn’t have these problems. When you start educating the people, give them the right infrastructure to live in, supply them with water, electricity, good roads, educate the people and create employment for them; why would anybody else go out and look for havoc? It’s a simple solution. If you’re educated and have a good job, you won’t be looking for mischief. I think the people there have been deprived for so long; they really need to be rescued. It’s not their fault because they’ve been neglected for so long; they really need to be looked after. The only way you look after them is not by giving them hand-outs; by educating them and teaching them how to make money.


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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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