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Bringing Informal Retailers on Nigeria’s Digital Economy Train

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The Nigerian Digital economy train has left the station. The journey roadmap has been drawn. Modalities are being put in place for all necessary mechanisms needed for itch-free transition.

Policies are being formulated; heavy investments are being made on infrastructure by various stakeholders. However, the journey would be futile without migrants joining the train at every available junction.

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), recently said plans were in top gear for Nigeria to achieve 95% digital literacy by 2030. According to the agency, initiatives including the establishment of tech incubation centres, were in the works to ensure that the target was met.

Some industry observers have however questioned the possibility of achieving such a high target given the current economic realities in the country.

“Our market women, how do you convince them to start advertising their businesses online, to start using digital technologies to manage their products? Up till now, some of them decline when you want to pay them electronically for their products. They will say they want cash,” said the president, Nigeria Computer Society, Prof. Adesina Simon Sodiya.

The famous ‘Nigerian market women’ make up the informal retail market which is estimated at about $100 million. Having a sizable number of this market on the digital train will spice up the journey.

In the last three years, innovative business-to-business e-commerce brands like Alerzo, TradeDepot, Omnibiz have taken up the challenge of bringing these vibrant segments of the market into the growing digital community by connecting them directly with global product manufacturers through easy-to-use digital apps.

“Platforms like Alerzo are also shaping the Nigeria narrative by showcasing the attractive investment opportunities to the world, while also reaching people in rural areas and giving them access to extensive catalogue of products and logistics.

“We also facilitate development and financial inclusion through digital payment platforms. For instance, Alerzo, through AlerzoPay, is contributing to the  development of dematerialized payment solutions which are key to the success of e-commerce and an important asset for Nigeria when it comes to development prospects,” said Adewale Opaleye, Chief Executive Officer of Alerzo Limited.

B2B digital platforms enable hundreds of SMEs, mostly informal retailers across Nigeria, to run profitable and sustainable businesses, benefiting from the economics of digitization to achieve a significant increase in their activity level. This facilitates economic development in Nigeria by allowing many entrepreneurs (retailers) to embark on new innovative projects.

Internet penetration in Nigeria is fast improving, thus increasing the use of smartphones among Nigerians. With more innovative seamless digital offerings, getting more informal retailers on the digital economy train might not be difficult as it seems.

 


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E-Business

Hisense Electronics Unveils Flagship Showroom in Abuja

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By Fabian Tarpael, Abuja

Hisense electronics unveiled a flagship showroom in Abuja over the weekend. Speaking at the event, Mr. Mustapha Khries, the Abuja Branch Manager of the Fouani Group, highlighted the significance of the flagship store, describing it as the first of its kind in the entire West African region.

He also addressed the challenges facing businesses in Nigeria, particularly the high exchange rates and transportation costs.

“The Fouani Group remains resilient and ready to overcome challenges, unlike others who often exit the market when faced with similar issues.”

Ms. Haifa Du, Senior Sales Manager for Hisense Electronics, emphasized the brand’s commitment to affordability and innovation, stating that Hisense offers the most cost-effective and advanced solutions in the market.

The event underscored Hisense’s dedication to technological innovation and sustainability while reaffirming its leadership position in the consumer electronics market.

Mr. Robbin Wei, Senior Sales Manager of Hisense Group, supported by Mr. Greg and Ms. Haifa Du, showcased various innovative products from the new flagship store.

Among the standout products showcased include; The Hisense 110″ Smart Ultra AMOLED TV, featuring unique capabilities such as a solar-powered remote control and a “locate remote” function to find misplaced remotes easily.


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E-Business

PalmPay, Jumia Partner to Launch Integration for Shoppers in Nigeria

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PalmPay, Africa-focused fintech operating Nigeria’s most used mobile wallet, and Jumia, Africa’s e-commerce giant, today announce a strategic partnership to enhance the digital payment ecosystem on the continent, starting with payment integrations and co-marketing efforts in Nigeria.

This partnership underscores both parties’ commitment to developing the digital payment ecosystem in Nigeria and grow the use of the cashless economy.

WIth PalmPay now available as a payment method, shoppers on Jumia will now be able to pay for their purchases with the option to check out with their PalmPay wallet, ensuring a seamless user experience and transaction reliability through the direct integration.

“We are proud to partner with Jumia as we bring together the best of fintech and e-commerce to redefine the online shopping experience,” said Sofia Zab, Chief Marketing Officer, PalmPay. “This strategic alliance aligns perfectly with our shared commitment to delivering a superior user experience and exceptional value to our customers.”

Speaking on the partnership, Sunil Natraj, CEO, Jumia Nigeria added: “At Jumia, we are dedicated to creating value for our customers by ensuring a convenient, reliable, and secure shopping experience.

“This partnership with PalmPay strengthens our commitment to enhancing the digital payments within our platform. By integrating PalmPay, we are providing more options for customers to access affordable and quality goods with the convenience of cashless transactions.”

This alliance marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between two industry giants, aiming to drive innovation, increase convenience for consumers, and foster the adoption of digital payments across Africa.

To celebrate the launch of the partnership, PalmPay and Jumia are launching a special Christmas campaign, running from December 11th to 30th. During this period, customers who make purchases on Jumia using the PalmPay payment method will stand a chance to win exciting cash rewards. More details can be found on the brands’ respective social media pages. @palmpay_ng and @JumiaNigeria.


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Aero Contractors Launches “12 Days of Christmas” Campaign

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Aero Contractors is thrilled to announce the launch of its “12 Days of Christmas” campaign, a festive and engaging social media initiative designed to spread holiday cheer and reward loyal customers.

Running from December 13 to December 24, 2024, this exciting campaign underscores Aero Contractors’ commitment to connecting families, friends, and communities during the holidays.

The “12 Days of Christmas” campaign invites travel enthusiasts, loyal customers, and holiday travelers to participate in fun and interactive activities on Aero Contractors’ social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). Each day will feature engaging posts such as trivia, puzzles, and challenges designed to ignite the festive spirit and encourage community participation.

Participants are encouraged to follow Aero Contractors’ social media pages, engage with the daily posts by liking, commenting, or sharing, and follow the specific instructions for each day’s activity.

Winners will be selected daily and announced on the respective platforms. Exciting prizes await participants, with the grand reward of a free return economy class ticket—a perfect gift for reconnecting with loved ones or exploring new destinations this holiday season.

“At Aero Contractors, we believe in the power of togetherness, especially during the holidays,” said Capt. Ado Sanusi, Managing Director of Aero Contractors.

“Our ‘12 Days of Christmas’ campaign is our way of giving back to the community that has supported us throughout the year. It’s an opportunity to engage, celebrate, and reward our customers while spreading joy and festive cheer.”

This campaign targets travel enthusiasts, loyal Aero Contractors customers, and families looking to make the most of the holiday season. Through this initiative, Aero Contractors reaffirms its dedication to safe, reliable, and efficient air travel, bringing people closer when it matters most.

Follow Aero Contractors on Instagram, Facebook, and X to join the “12 Days of Christmas” campaign. Engage daily for a chance to win a free return economy class ticket and other exciting offers.


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