7 Fastest Gowing Banks in Nigeria

The Nigerian banking industry has taken a wider challenge competing with the international banks across the globe. The rating of banks in Nigeria is based on their efficiency in service delivery and being on the lead to control and run modern banking services with flexible network integrations gearing towards serving their customers within and outside the country.

Recently, bank ratings in Africa reported in the Vanguard News online dated January 17th 2012 and quoting Banker magazine which recently retained its world’s number one monthly publication position above Bloomberg Markets, Euro-money and Harvard Business Review by Global Capital Markets Survey through a study by Think Media, an independent company that researches readership of financial publications, revealed that 11 Nigerian banks make top 50 African banks among which include Zenith Bank Plc, FirstBank of Nigeria Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, Access Bank Plc, UBA, Fidelity Bank Plc, First City Monument Bank Plc, Diamond Bank Plc, Skye Bank Plc, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, and EcoBank Nigeria.

Apart from the top playing banks in Africa from South Africa which maintains leadership of the continent’s banking industry, Morocco, Libya and Nigeria made up the first ten banks in Africa and closely followed by Egypt.

In the recent publication by the Banker Magazine the Banker’s Africa Editor, Mr. Paul Wallace disclosed that banks from Nigeria, South Africa and North Africa still dominate the Top 20 with “only one lender, Togo-based Ecobank came from outside of those places” in the Top 20. He further stated that African banks have made tremendous improvements recently. In his speech, Wallace said: “African banks have grown rapidly in the past few years. Based on the 2010 results, nineteen of them have Tier 1 Capital of more than $1 billion, a level that roughly marks the cut-off point for the world’s biggest 500 banks”.

Tier One Capital by The Banker magazine as published in its current edition has 9 Nigerian banks making the list of top 1000 banks globally and the only country with 9 banks leading in the top 25 banks in Africa.

Among the top banks include the foremost Zenith Bank with 296 position and First Bank with 310 position. Others are Guaranty Trust Bank ranked 444, Access Bank (495), United Bank for Africa (513), Fidelity Bank (567), First City Monument Bank (586), Diamond Bank (650) and Skye Bank (657).

Meanwhile, in July 27 2011 the Central bank of Nigeria CBN raised Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to 8.75 per cent, to further tighten money supply in anticipation of future rise in inflation. The MPR is the benchmark for interest rate in the economy.

The CBN also reported that the nation’s real gross domestic product (GDP) growth slowed down in the first quarter to 6.64 per cent from 7.36 per cent in the preceding quarter, warning that security challenges, infrastructural bottleneck and government spending could undermine investors’ confidence and output growth in the near term.

It is therefore stated as follows:

• Zenith Bank Plc            - 1st
• First bank Plc               - 2nd
• Guarantee Trust Bank   - 3rd
• Access Bank Plc          - 4th
• United Bank of Africa   - 5th
• Fidelity Bank Plc           - 6th
• Diamond Bank Plc        - 7th
  

Meanwhile, First City Monument Bank and Skye Bank are equally fast growing in this category and are likely to competing with the best 7 banks in the nearest future.

The rankings are based on the definition of Tier One Capital as set out by Basel’s Bank for International Settlements (BIS) and the object of the survey is to show the banks’ soundness in relation to the Basel requirement of a minimum ratio of Tier One Capital to risk-weighted assets of 4 per cent (increasing to 7 per cent by 2019) and a minimum ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets of 8 per cent.

THE MALL ALADINMA

Are you desirious of organizing a party, serminer or general event in a serene environment with the state-of-the-art facilies, then think of the Mall Aladinma. For the kiddies, it's a saver second home for partying and birthday celebration. Trade fair events and general indoor/outdoor activities are properly taken care of at The Mall.

The Mall Aladinma is now set to host Nigerians and her visitors in a serene environment located at Lake Nwebere Street, Owerri the state capital of Imo State. In the words of Dr Victor Onukwugha cited from the This day News November13, 2010, the CEO of the Mall Aladinma and the founder of Bauhaus International ‘the mall, Aladinma is one–stop–shopping and Entertainment Complex that has been conceptualized to
promote commerce and tourism in the state.  The shopping facilitates included 106 specialty shops and offices, one departmental store, and two branch banks while the entertainment facilities include a multipurpose hall, meeting hall, nite club, casino and cinema suites’.

Among other services offered here at The Mall Aladinma include:

• Video Conferencing 
• Provisional Furnished Office Suites (for hourly and daily rentals)
• Postal/Courier Services
• Webhosting/ Designing Services
• Graphic Base System for Company branding
• Wi-Fi Broadband Connectivity/ Internet browsing
• General Business Services
• Shopping Plaza Zone
• Fully Ariconditioned Event Gallery/ Hall and 
• Air tight/ Airconditioned outdoor gallery

View all the pictures to see for yourself:

Feel free to comment on what you've seen here.

Multi-links remains the best and reliable internet network provider

With the recent development and complications regarding network services in Nigeria, some may have wondered while there seems not to have a steady and reliable network services from the exisiting network giants such as Glo, MTN, Etisalat and Airtel.

The truth of the matter remains that most of these ISPs focus more on advertisement without properly boosting their network strength.

Multi-links services offers users the space to create their own Wi-fi hotspot via 3G network (EVDO) at homes, offices, vehicles and infact anywhere. With your Wi-fi router, you can connect up to ten computers on the Multi-links 3G broadband service in the office, home or anywhere and enjoy the ultra sonic speed more than what other network providers offer.

The Multi-links mobile broadband service provides high speed internet access for a wide range of application to her various customers covering virtually the regions of Nigeria and border. Multi-links has its applications ranging from professionals, mobile executives for students and for home users. Multi-links rocket mobile broadband offers users an incredible web browsing experience designed for you to achieve more no matter who your location across Nigeria.

With Multilinks users take advantage of the on going discounts on slik and classy designed Nokia 6275  with large 2 QVGA display in 262,144 colour resolution embeded with FM radio and music player with high video streaming technology.

Check out the website and find out more. You will be glad you find the most convinient and reliable fast internet service.

Freedom Software still works perfectly well with Nigeria’s Major Network providers

For many Nigerians who doubt if the freedom proxy server software still works for individual and for business solutions, it’s still working perfectly okay with Nigerian network providers like MTN, Glo, Etisalat and Airtel.

The Internet most sophisticated Proxy tunneling solution powered by resolution GnbH still remain unshakable and reliable in term of by-passing local proxy settings and possibly surfing the internet without any network provider bundle plan (i.e. at no cost) but the genuine truth remains that the free version of Freedom Software NEVER works perfectly well with its free version and so it is VERY wise to go for the paid version of at list ‘Basic’ plan which goes for only N800 + payable via Liberty Reserve, Virtual Terminal Network or Alertpay  which are all available and within reach for Nigerians.

How do I download the latest Freedom Software?

 

Download the latest version on their website at www.your-freedom.net and click on the download tab to download. Now always ensure you have the latest freedom software in use because freedom always updates their software to beat and remain the most sophisticated proxy server gateway.

How do I set up the freedom Software?

Many people twit freedom software using multiply IP Addresses but the simplest and accurate way to connect to freedom remote servers is by followings the installation questions by freedom and completing the installation. Endeavour to key-in your freedom username and password as demanded by the freedom wizard. Allow the freedom wizard to assist you set up your account and you will generate IP address like this shown below.

 

Any of these IP can perfectly work for you.

How do I signup and pay for the freedom software?

Simply head straight to the freedom server site and signup and after which a confirmation mail will be sent to 

your e-mail account for verification. 

Ensure you visit your mail to click on the link sent to you by freedom to verify your freedom account.

Remember your username and password and use it to log in to the freedom account.

On the freedom website, click on the account tab and review your account details after which you proceed for 

the payment. See the picture below for a review.

Head straight for the payment via these means of payment. I am very sure of VTN (Virtual Terminal network 

– a reliable cashless payment system you users register to buy and sell online without hitches) which I have 

been making use of for the past 3 years now. After payment is made and confirmed, then you can successfully

 commence the use of your freedom software.

Picture like this shown below is what you will see in your freedom account after a successful payment is made.

 

Be sure you can be refunded your money if you feel like discontinuing with freedom. see the tabs in the picture below for more of what you can do on freedom.

 Why is my freedom software not working for me?

• It could be as a result of wrong and manipulated settings
• not using the latest freedom software
• have exhausted your limit of browsing
• not using the rightful setting on your internet browser (e.g. Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firebox, Flock, Opera…)

* Note: you do not need to set your modem in any way, the only settings needed is that of the freedom setup using wizard and that of the internet browser.

If you are done with all these guided instructions, the sky is your limit. You can now surf the web without restrictions.

The History of the Vatican’s Swiss Guard

The Vatican's Swiss Guard

The Swiss Guard, the world smallest army, was formed in 1506 by Pope Julius II. Switzerland may be wealthy now, but 500 years ago it was a poor country whose young men often resorted to seeking work abroad as mercenaries.

Swiss mercenaries were in high demand in Renaissance Europe, but the pontifical Swiss Guard in the last remaining legacy of the tradition.

The tiny force is responsible for the Pope’s safety, including the security of the Apostolic Palace, and acts as the de facto armed forces of Vatican City, the world’s tiniest sovereign state.

The 130 members of the Swiss Guard are required to be catholic, unmarried Swiss who have completed Swiss military service.

Swiss Guards between ages of 19-30

They need to be at least 5ft 8in tall and between the ages of 19 and 30. the commandant of the Swiss Guard raised the prospect in 2009 that the corps might one day admit female recruits, but said it remained a long way off. Guards are expected to be ready to lay down their lives in defense of the Pope and are supposed to be of impeccable moral and religious character.

They can be seen on guard outside the Vatican every day, dressed in stripped blue, red and gold uniforms and carrying halberds as their traditional weapons. They are also equipped with modern firearms – the same handguns and machine guns which are used by the Swiss army.

The idea that the uniform was designed by Michaelangelo is a myth – it is simply a legacy of military uniforms that were common in Europe during the Renaissance.

The Swiss Guard’s most significant military engagement was in 1527 when 190 guards died fighting Holy Roman Empire troops during the sack of Rome, allowing Clement VII to flee to safety from the Vatican through a stone passageway. The Swiss Guard’s role as the Pope’s armed force is complemented by the Vatican’s Corps of Gendarmes, which was established in 1816 by Pope Pius VII and whose recruits are Italians.

Suffering, a true test of faith

 Suffering has never been a good phenomenon. In fact, most people find it downright and distasteful, probably because suffering dogs out footsteps as people progress through life yet suffering has its purpose. It matures as emotionally and spiritually while it also play a part in helping us get stronger in physical might and faith. Those who haven’t experienced much suffering usually have shallow and immature personality. Their world revolve around them rather than revolving around God and fellow men. When diversity strikes, they can’t seem to cope with it. They either run away physically or mentally or even escape through suicide. They lash at others as though these people are responsible for their misfortune. In the past, these categories of people are self sufficient, now there is nowhere to turn to, they quickly loose their faith and trust in God.

Suffering awakens us to realization that we do not have all the answers in life. The solution is not in our hands. In this way, we have to trust because there is nowhere to turn. Suffering humbles and refines us; it makes us more compassionate towards others, less judgmental, more sensitive to the need of others, more willing to the service of others. One can see the crucified Christ Jesus in the live of those who unite their suffering with Him. Sometimes, our suffering comes from striving to be faithful to the will of God. At other times, our sorrows comes from circumstances over which we have no control such as illness, joblessness, financial difficulties, family problems, all these sufferings have immense value in the eyes of God. The sorrows, the disappointment, the headache, failure can all be turned into supernatural gold and help us to mature spiritually.

“My God, My God, why have thou forsaken me”? was Christ Jesus word on his sufferings, how often does these words of scripture come to our mind when sorrow and suffering strikes? A death in the family, a problematic marriage and a chronic illness can all find us turning to God with tears in our eyes and anguish in our hearts. Most people were taught as children that everything that happens to us have a divine purpose including pain and suffering. Yet, how often is it to us to see God’s love and providence in pain.

The church teaches us that pain and suffering came into the world as consequences of original sin. Only one’s sin plunged the whole world into darkness. One’s sin lies behind all suffering known to mankind that is the reason we die, fight war, get sin and natural disaster.

The secondary cause of suffering is the devil although few people know that this formidable force is the source of their misery. The third is human own nature, weakness and failing such as pride, selfishness, lack of self control. In fact most of human sufferings are caused by what humans do or what they fail to do. Lack of self control for example, with regard to food, drink and drug has destroyed many lives and families. Imagine slight can ruin friendship and marriage, while uncontrolled anger results in battered wives and children. Parents who lack courage to form and discipline their children when they are young suffer much when their children are grown.

The lack of chastity in our society fosters promiscuity, contraception and anti-life mentality. But in all, our sufferings are actually gifts because good can come from evil through God’s intervention. Through our sufferings and trials we are playing a significant role in the redemption of others. We should know that trials and tribulations of the day-to-day activities, we do share in the suffering of Christ as part of his mystical body as people of God. We can be sure this involves sufferings, struggle and pain, but if we really keep faith, we will never feel we have lost God’s favour. In the midst of sorrow and even calumny, we will experience happiness which moves us to love others, help them share in our supernatural joy. God’s sufferings overwhelm us because we take it like a coward and because we are faint-hearted. We should meet it bravely with a Christian spirit that is when it will be appreciated like a treasure. Sometimes God tests our love, as he did that of Abraham by giving us a taste of sorrow.

God uses suffering to teach us the truth, among them is the virtue of hope and to trust in Him. God knows sufferings and sorrows to show us that we are too attached to human beings or human comforts. He is also teaching us that all hope must be placed in the only permanent being which is God. No wonder the United States of America have in their currency written ‘In God We trust’. When God gives a cross, we don’t know how long we will have to carry it. Our human nature assumes that it will be a life time. It could be lifetime or just a couple of hours or minutes only God knows the duration of our time of trial. Leave your sufferings in the hands of Christ for without cross and suffering there will be no crown of glory.

Lip Service to Security: Boko Haram Laughs

Tortoise, the animal renowned for her wits, one day, summoned her innocent young ones and posed this brain teaser: “How many times would you have a life-threatening experience and you learn from it?” One of them answered, “Twice”. The mother gave her a thorough beating at the amazement of some who felt two was too small a number. A clever one among them, however answered: “I do not wish to experience it at all (since I may not live to tell the story).”

The latter was highly commended by the mother and was, as a result, used for responsible roles in the household. With regard to the Boko Haram threat in Nigeria, Nigerian leaders, nay, all Nigerians, are like the former, only they are even more foolish, having experienced more than ‘twice’ of Boko Haram and yet do not seem to have learnt.

Each time I read or hear one of the empty talks about security beefing-up in Nigeria, my mind immediately goes to the Boko Haram masterminds, who would sure be thrown into mocking laughter. Yes, why would Boko Haram take Nigeria seriously when they are very much aware that such talks are mere empty gongs, which do not translate into concrete actions? Why would Boko Haram take Nigerian leaders seriously when they know the Government only pays lip service to security? How would they take Nigeria serious when they are quite sure Nigerians are not only lacking the weapons but also the very will to combat them? How should they take Nigerians seriously when the citizenry wine and dine with them on daily basis, and sometimes invite them for friendly chats in the name of dialogue?

Never in the history of playing with fire has such unseriousness been recorded visa-a-vis government’s response to a mortal danger. The perpetrators of the recent attack in Abuja and major cities in the Northern Nigeria are, no doubt, still very much around, making merry and planning another attack. They have not fled the country because there is no safer haven than Nigeria. Indeed there is no need to leave the country, for nothing meaningful has so far been done to get hold of them. Since after the most recent attacks, each passing day all the more reveals the incompetence of Nigeria as a polity to stem the tide of Boko Haram attacks. The Presidency and the Security agents have shown evident signs of failure in the leadership of Nigeria.

This markedly contrasts with the response that would have been expected from more security-conscious countries. For instance, in 2001, the United States had her security challenge but confronted it headlong by putting up more watertight security measures. Since then, she has been at the vanguard of a global anti-terror campaign as a preemptive/preventive move against future attacks. This has largely paid off, since there has never been a repeat. They learnt there lessons after just one ugly experience.

But did Nigeria learn their lessons after the embarrassing attack the very day they marked their 50^th Independence anniversary? Seeing that such a national embarrassment was not embarrassing enough for Nigerians, the sect was then emboldened to fully unwrap their malicious package. Subsequent ones therefore followed and, each time, they had a field day and rode dry shod. And, in this most recent one on the UN building, all Nigerians witness is nothing but the usual rhetoric and empty promises of ‘beefing-up’ security. Boko haram laughs – only a few casual meetings are enough to execute yet another successful operation! And after executing that, they might leisurely sit around and watch the ‘toothless bulldogs’ bark for some days and invite them for a dialogue. This has been the trend.

Boko Haram is very much at ease and enjoying a field day because it is dealing with focus-less government and a confused people. I doubt whether Boko Haram would have been so much at ease if it were operating in, say, the State of Israel. Israel would have been able to rout them completely or, at least put them on their toes. Boko Haram is no where as deadly and sophisticated as Hamas and other terrorist groups in the Middle East. Yet Israel has contained them to a reasonable extent, without engaging them in any cowardly ‘dialogue’ [dialogue is efficacious, though, but only when it has a basis and focus].

It could be recalled that a similar unseriousness was shown when kidnapping was rearing its ugly head. Today, kidnapping in Nigeria has become a perennial problem, a national identity, indeed, a byword for Nigeria. Any malaise that finds its way into the country easily spreads and ossifies. This is so because of the characteristics lack of will to combat evil and fight crimes in Nigeria.

Combating Boko Haram is possible, but that collective will to combat evil must have to be demonstrated. In fact, combating Boko Haram would involve a whole change of orientation, especially on the part of the security agents. The mind-set must be healed, and the culture of irresponsibility/ unseriousness thrown to the winds. The criminal culture now ruling the country must be overthrown, and the culture of impunity eschewed. Security is a larger-than-life reality which involves discipline and restraint. For instance, the police cannot combat Boko Haram if they are easily bribed with money. The suicide-bomber that attacked the UN building in Abuja must have crossed several police checkpoints because the policemen there were only interested in extorting harmless motorists. Some of this malaise must have to be addressed if we must make any head way in fighting crimes.

I am afraid Nigerians are yet to see the worst of Boko Haram. Boko Haram may continue to laugh Nigerians and their self-acclaimed leaders to scorn until Nigerians demonstrate the collective will to combat it.

The Need to Give Nigerian Women 35% Affirmative Action

Gone are the days when Nigerian women were confined to the homes, just to attend to domestic chores and bear children. Gone are the days when Nigerian women because of their gentle, subtle, reserved and soft nature were regarded as weaker sex that should be seen and not to be heard, that should be used for any purpose at any point in time by men. A yes member or A second class citizen.

Gone also are the days when women participated in campaign rallies and voters registration exercise only to be schemed out when it was elective or appointment time. Gone also are the time when they were exploited, marginalized and discriminated against in political process.

In today’s society, whether described as weak or subtle, their magical influence like that of Delilah still rules men of influence and affluence. No wonder some men described women as necessary evil. Can men do without women and vice versa? We cannot forget the role played by Queen Amina, Moremi of Ife, Chief Mrs. Olufumilayo Ransom Kuti, Mrs. Janet Mokelu and the rest of other prominent and zealous women leaders, in the emancipation of women.

Today, Nigeria is blessed with dedicated women who have distinguished themselves in their various field of endevour namely Sarah Ajanaku, Professor Dora Akunyili, Sara Jubril, Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili, Mrs. Irene Chigbu and the host of others. These women deserve commendation for distinguishing themselves in politics.

How come in a country where women constitute more that 2/3 of the country’s 70% adult non-literate population, they hold less than 5% of the important decision making position? Women have in abundance all it takes to occupy leadership positions and are known to play vital roles as mothers, organizers, stabilizers, social and political activities, yet the society has not give adequate recognition rather they are discriminated against and have become target of violence.

The truth is that very few women are active in the political and professional arena. Men are virtually dominant over women in all areas. As some of Nigerian leaders have failed the people of Nigeria and played politics without principle, if women are in position of authority, many broken hearts will be mended, many mournful souls will be comforted, many depressed minds will find hope and many crying faces will experience joy. In fact, the whole wide world will be a paradise.

The first lady and wife of president, Dame Patience Jonathan said that unless the National Assembly realizes that Nigeria is a signatory to the law on discrimination against women and implement the 35% Affirmative Action, gender inequality would continue to be the order of the day. In a similar occasion, the wife of the former governor of Imo State, Mrs. Chioma Ohakim disclosed that “when Nigerians acknowledge that women have been left behind, Nigerians will accept that it has not been totally of their own making. The reversal of women’s predicament is inevitably the responsibility of every Nigerian woman”.

The challenges confronting women are enormous. Many of the women do not have the type of money the men have for campaigns, posters, handbills, vehicles, radio and television advertisements. They don’t have godfathers. Even those women that have the financial resources still do not have interest because of the violent nature of Nigerian politics. Elections are characterized by assassinations, arson, thuggery, lootings and kidnapping, gossip and pull-down syndrome. Most often, women in politics are regarded as wayward. This is because most of the political meetings are held after midnight. This is a deliberate attempt that deters women but the few that are not deterred and insist on attending often times have to contend with sexual harassment.

Democracy is a game of number and if ideal democratic principles are observed during elections, women will win and occupy more seats given the fact that they constitute greater percentage of the population. Rwanda did it and succeeded today. Women occupy 49% why can’t Nigeria? Greater responsibility of rising to the challenges rest in the women themselves, to enable them rise as united front through advocacy, lobbying to encourage those with the ability to prosper into politics.

The media should ensure effective participation of women in politics by tailoring media programmes towards promoting practices and beliefs that will lead to the inclusion of women in relevant spheres of socio-economic and political development. They should carry out enlightenment and political education on the populace.

Government at all levels should develop and support leadership training programmes for women especially young ones to enable them exercise responsibilities at all levels. Government should design a political framework that will ensure that a certain percentage of positions are reserved for women as it is done in other developed and developing nations of the world.

Women organization should be encouraged and supported. They need to as a matter of urgency, come together and form formidable organization so as to tackle the various forms of discrimination meted against them e.g. widowhood practices, circumcision, early marriage, rape, trafficking and all sorts of humiliation done to women. The Nigerian National Assembly should as a matter of urgency pass the bill for the implementation of the national gender policy on 35% of Affirmative Action and ensure that no form of discrimination should be allowed in a country like Nigeria.

Women cannot remain dormant forever. Now is the time to rise up and shine. The future is very bright, rise and occupy your rightful place in Nigeria’s politics. If you think you can, you can, if you believe a thing is strong enough, it can come to pass in your life.

The challenge to leadership is to be strong but not rude, be kind but not weak, be bold but not bully, be thoughtful but not lazy, be humble but not timid, be proud but not arrogant, have honour but without folly. Finally I conclude with this advice Jim Rohn “to attract attractive people you must be attractive. To attract powerful people, you must be powerful. To attract committed people, you must be committed. Instead of going to work on yourself. If you become, you can attract”.

Sincerity: A way forward in Nigerian’s Development

No nation has ever survived it as a result of her government’s insincerity and neglect. Such nations with high negligence and insincerity are bound to fall or break apart. The several uprisings in the world today especially in the Northern African and the Middle East are as a result of bad leadership and insincerity in governance. Nations like Tunisia, Egypt and Libya can surely testify to this.

Sincerity in Homes and families

Charity the say begins at home. The basic education pasted unto a child begins at home. Nigerian homes must therefore learn to be sincere and honest in their discharge of duties starting from the home, to their respective places of works and worships. If moral ethics is raised to project sincerity, the nation will surely stand. Parents and the religious bodies and congregations should take the lead in raising a better home, and the society at large.

Sincerity in Leadership

Sincerity indeed has a vital role to play as the foremost step to take before any other measures. The government must be frank, tasted and trusted. In the recent past the trust by the international community and even the citizens of Nigeria is poorly rated and yet to improve if only the confidence placed on the Nigerian government is restored. Nigerian government must prove to her citizenry and the international community that the biggest in her yearly fiscal budget which centers on security is ensured to masterly identify and further protect the lives of her citizenry and visitors. The government should prove to the Nigerian people of their transparency in governance and further cause the citizenry to feel a sense of belonging as citizens and not as foreigners. The Executives, Judiciary and the Legislative councils should stand as beacons of true leadership. All these must be achieved first as a result of sincerity in leadership of the Nigerian nation.

Embarking on cost effective projects

The Nigerian government must embark on meaningful projects that are people oriented gearing towards benefiting the citizens of the country. White elephant projects will only plunge the nation into darkness. Cost effective projects must be put to cut down the high cost of living and improve the standard of living. Cost effective projects should be put to see to proper maintenance of the oil industry through resuscitation of the indigenous refineries, stabilization of the education system, bringing stability in the power generating sector, provide and steadily maintaining quality health care facilities, proving quality road network, providing and maintaining government public infrastructures, providing job opportunities for the teaming youths and seeing to the overall steady functioning of the entire system.

Government programme and the media

Hence all these are put in place; further sincere projection like campaigns on sensitization about government programme will give way to re-orientation of the general public via public awareness by the media. Nigerians will surely rejoice to see the government working with sincerity than believing mere advertisement on the media. The media in the other way should truly stand for sincerity on the information they disseminate to the general public.

Recently, China prohibited lots of TV programmes impelling moral standards of her citizens. Such idea should be borrowed by the Nigerian government to abolish junk movies, music and print media that are constantly dumped on the Nigerian borders causing great psychological and health havoc on the Nigerian people. In this respect, stringent rules must be placed by the censorship board to eliminate or completely ban the importation or release of such obnoxious media content. In the same vein, piracy must be strictly checked. Qualitative and educative programmes gearing towards building up characters and personalities should be encouraged and ensured as a standard in the Nigerian public and private media industry.

The Nigerian Security System

Nigeria plays a major role in the ECOWAS peace keeping force and deserves respect without much ado. Before the civilian government in 1999, the security of lives and properties was moderately okay. Come to think of the internal security system in the country, Nigeria is still placed below the margin point among the other developing nations of the world. The borders of the country remain so porous; little wonder then Nigeria remains the safest place to dump illicit or toxic materials, criminals and people on exile. Hard drug dealers still strive despite the efforts of the NDLEA (Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency).

The social security services must work in other to attain sustainable development. Nigerian government must identify and monitor her citizens through web based information system like it is practiced in other parts of the world. In countries like the United States of America, United Kingdom, Canada, South Africa and Germany children are registered as citizens from the moment after their conception and are recognized in any part of their country as far as the web based information system is concern. This goes beyond producing mere plastic National ID cards for Nigerians. If the government succeeds in capturing the data of all her citizenry within a specific period of time, it will automatically help in managing her people’s welfare and reducing risk in crimes committed within and even outside the country.

An average Nigerian will not fail to mention about insincerity of and in the Nigerian Police Force. The Police as is usually said are friends to the citizenry; they are there to protect the lives of citizens. In the case of Nigeria, many would prefer settling their cases amicably without involving the police who may cause more cases to escalate. The Police on the Nigerian roads have been severally accused and reported of harassing road users and further extorting money from them instead of doing their main security work. In some cases, police sponsors criminals leasing their ammunitions and uniforms for their operations. In some other related issues, criminals bargain with the police to free them of the crimes they are guilty of and thus, subverting the main focuses on security of lives and properties. A new bread of law enforcement agencies including the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Custom Services, Nigerian Civil Defense Commission and the rest must be re-instituted build on trust and sincerity. No such criminal minded person(s) should be enrolled into any of these law enforcement agencies.

All these centers on sincerity and until the leadership of Nigeria gives way for sincerity to thrive, no meaningful effort will be made no matter the large amount of resources spent for the Nigerian nation. The change and challenge is now!

Tactics to reducing security risks in Nigeria

Terrorism act is a global issue and needed stringent measures to curb it. In the case of Nigeria, certain complicating factors have to be extricated and defined to properly solving the problems.

Sincerity in Nigerian Government

This particular point is very important as far as security issues are concerned here. On several occasions, Nigerians have continuously pointed fingers on promises which the government of either the present or the past administration failed to executive.

Another similar case is constantly recalled of whooping sum of money lavished on projects which never matured. All these are key factors leading to lack of trust in government and many a times had led to uprisings further leading to destruction of lives and properties by groups who felt were not treated with parity. The government of Nigeria should always accomplish her aims gearing towards the benefit of the common man in the country. Sincerity must be the watchword of the Nigerian government. With this in real practice, courage and trust are being restored to Nigerians and of course security risk will be reduced to the barest minimum.

Improving on the Standard of Living of Nigerians

A hungry man they say is an angry man. Certain measures must be sincerely implemented to see to the welfare of the people of Nigeria. Government must depend and boost their local products and resources and cut down several expenses impelling boosting the standard of living. Best Agricultural mechanism must be adopted from other successful countries (like Malaysia, China, India, and the United States) to boost food production and cut down the cost of food products in the local market. To curb youths restiveness in some parts of the country (especially in the Niger Delta region), jobs must be created in various industrious field like in Agriculture to cancel the idle minds leading to devilish acts. In view of this, states of the Nigerian federation should implement on industrial and commercial agriculture to sustain food production and equally created huge employment opportunities for the teaming youths.

Indigenous oil refineries must be sincerely equipped and functional to provide PSM (or fuel) for the local consumption at a subsidized rate while exporting others to grow the economy. These refineries when put in good condition will go a long way employing more capable and professional hands (especially in the oil area) and of course reduce youth’s restiveness by cutting down the security risks.

Other goodies derived from the dividends as far as world democracy is concern are the sincere provision of low cost housing schemes for the citizens, provision of other basic amenities like well treated water supply, provision good health care services, creation and proper building and maintenance of road networks, provision of social security welfare and services, provision of adequate and steady power supply and many more. When all these are sincerely implemented, low security risk will be recorded.

Upgrading the Security System Services

Special attention must be given to the Nigerian security services sector to boost security in the country. Inflated  funding on equipping the law enforcement agencies with vehicles, sophisticated gadgetries or building befitting offices are not enough to stand the challenges ahead rather; learned and mentally sound personnel should be employed to handle the task. Installation of monitoring devices like the CCTV should be extended to all the states of the federation apart from the federal capital territory Abuja where it is functional. Security jobs are very critical and thus employed personnel should be well paid to executive their duties. Until such is done, Nigerians would maintain their poor relationship with the security services in the country.

Introduction of functional Identity Data Base System

Nigeria has come a long way and is duly qualified to have a functional Identity Data Base System where all the information concerning people as either citizens or visitors, properties such as vehicles, places around the community and other vital information are stored and are easily accessed from time to time. This measure when fully implemented and actualized will go a long way to identifying and studying the various features within Nigeria and further track several identities involved in criminal activities thus, cutting down the security risk involved. Such is being practiced in many developed and developing nations across America, Europe, Asia and Africa and so Nigeria should not be left behind as the giant of Africa she claims to be.

Security Awareness Programme for Nigerians

There are series of jingles on the Nigerian local media sensitizing Nigerians on the security risk and its implications but much is needed to be done as far as security is concern. Fundamental Human Rights lessons alongside with basic security measures to challenge security risks should be incorporated into the school system curriculum to aid the younger ones to imbibe the measures while coming up the age.

Freedom of Information (FOI) should be sincerely implemented

Some time ago the Nigerian government passed the freedom of information bill for implementation but the agitation has remained that some vital information regarding the way government of Nigeria is being run were being infringed and remained hidden from the rest of Nigerians. Such information includes how money is being spent on budgets, allocations disbursed to officers and regions and how they were spent and similar financially attached information. To cut down security risk and prevent uprisings form the government opposition groups, such information must be clearly stated to every Nigeria and made available on the government’s libraries and official website for transparent running of government.

Convicted Government officers’ must not be treated as a sacred cow

This case borders Nigerians and has kept many worried and lacking trust in the government of Nigeria. Several criminal cases recorded since the inception of the new democracy in Nigeria in 1999 and committed by the past and even the present government officers remained untreated and are being swept under the carpet. What annoys Nigerians most is that these culprits are treated as a sacred cow and are finally allowed to move freely.

As if it were enough, many of these shameless culprits rally round the government and still assuming government’s positions. Some of these culprits are the president, Senate Presidents, The Speakers of Various Legislative House, Judges, governors, ministers, commissioners, permanent secretaries, local government chairmen and many more. There is little or no trust in the government of Nigeria and thus needed a sincere effort to sit up and convince Nigerians that the present government is ready to critically settle the past issues and move forward.

The Impact of Computer in the Banking Sector

In the 21st century, more and more people are using the computer and banking system to manage their personal and business finances. Indeed, the blending of computer and banking has made the overall management of household and business finances far easier than it ever has been at any point in history.

With the computer and banking, it is simple to keep track of various types of financial accounts. Indeed, all you need to do is log onto the computer and quickly access the program for computer and banking.

The Internet has also broadened the scope of computer and banking services that are now available on both the personal and business level when it comes to finances.

The Internet allows a person to be in direct contact, if you will, with his or her accounts through computer and banking systems on the World Wide Web. A person now can readily pay bills and undertake other financial tasks via the Internet. The Internet truly has brought about a whole new age when it comes to the computer and banking.

In the future, most experts estimate that the vast majority of transactions involving the payment of bills will take place via the Internet. No messing around with writing checks and mailing in bill payments using land mail services.
As an aside, most financial institutions have taken significant steps to ensure and provide for the security of their customers and their customers’ money when it comes to online computer and banking. Initially, people were reserved about the prospect of using online computer and banking services for fear that their accounts would be improperly accessed. While security measures are not flawless, they have become significant in recent years and do provide a hefty lot of protection to the consumer and the public.

With computers, access is fast, convenient, and available around the clock. Furthermore, customer’s application for electronic banking facilities...

The Usefulness of Owning a Business Website

Preamble |

Creating a business website let’s business owners to heave a sign of relieve why fetching customers within and outside the business territory. Your business website speaks louder than voice because there prospective customers see for themselves what services you offer and how to go about them. Thus, the business website (as a media tool), simply serves as a mirror copy of your main business shared to millions of internet users whom you were unable to reach with your physical location.

What does it require to own a website?

To own and manage a website is like managing your business office and so you must equip your website virtually the same way you have packaged your physical office. There must be the followings to start with:

1. A dedicated server (Computer System – Virus-free) to attend to customers
2. Internet Connection (either via V-Sat, Modem or dial up network)
3. Get a reputable web-hosting service to launch your web and if possibly assist in designing your website to your own taste or
4. Hire a website guru to suggest the best and reliable plan for your hosting and designing. He/She will equally take part in the decision making towards building the site for your business or which ever way.
5. your business should think of having IT-Wise trained staff to handle the job of receiving customers requests and general internet management or preferably consider the Internet guru to assist in the running of the business website (on trust).
6. Make provision for a toll-free calls or GSM line specifically for the website department and further equip the office with other peripherals like the printers and scanners (if need be).

What is the cost of hosting and running a Business Website?

The cost may vary but not with a wide margin. These are responsible for the variation in prices for hosting and running a website:

1. It all depends on the hosting companies and what they offer. Web hosting services charge in either monthly, yearly or sometimes for two-year hosting plan. Some typical example of quality and reputable web hosting sites are Bluevoda, Hostgator, Godaddy, Google and lots more.
2. The nature of your business matters. If your business is larger with many departments and feature and tend to showcase all these then you will expect a higher price compare such a business with little or no department.
3. The Internet guru price of consulting, hosting and designing may vary based on contractual agreement.

What do businesses stand to achieve with there website?

I guess by now this question may have gone extinct because the benefits are terribly magnificent! Your business website speaks for itself thus you need not go fetching for customers from within or outside your business territory hence you already have your website running life on the web with thousands of interested visitors on daily basis. All your products and services can be delivered via online services without coming in physical contact with the customer.

With the current trend in information technology, people believe more on information found there on the internet as more official and trusted and even if you opt for advertisement on the radio and the tv it makes it more easier to direct your audience to your website for further details of what your business offers.

With your website, you can track your customers’ details and always cause them to return to your business via sms, e-mails on news offer campaigns and announcement of new products and services. The business website is somewhat valuable and just wow!

“Business + Advertisement = Huge Success!

Business Website = Mirror Copy of your Company”