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Important Things You need to note When Using An ATM

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ATMs have made sending and receiving cash very easy. You don’t really need to visit the bank to perform banking transactions. However, with the increased use of these machines, ATM related fraud has increased. In some cases, you will receive alerts when you have not used your card. So, don’t just insert your ATM card in any machine. We gather some signs to look out for whenever you use an ATM.

Pinhole camera

Almost every ATM comes with a pinhole camera. The camera captures every person who uses the machine. So, before you use the machine, you should check whether the camera has been tampered with or not. A cyber thief may just be waiting at the other end to pounce on your hard-earned money.

Check number pad

The number pad usually works alongside the camera. Another number pad is usually placed on the original ATM number pad by the ATM thief. Once the number pad is installed, anyone who uses that particular machine is at risk of losing his money.

Beware of the ATM location

It is safer to use an ATM which is located at the bank premises. It is difficult to walk into a bank and manipulate the ATM. Jumia Travel advises that you avoid using random ATMs. And if you don’t trust ATM, you perform your transaction in the banking hall.

The wanderer

The wanderer doesn’t have anything to do than to observe and watch every person who uses the ATM in order to dispossess them of their money. This usually happens at weird hours of the day. Again, use the ATM situated at a bank.

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Middle East Crisis Brings African Leadership Into The Spotlight

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Middle East in Crisis & Conflict: A Primer, Author Taufiq Rahim (Image: Supplied).

As the world grapples with the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, it has opened the door for African leadership on a global stage. The new best-selling book released this month, Middle East in Crisis & Conflict: A Primer, by leading geopolitical strategist Taufiq Rahim, serves as a critical tool for experts and leaders alike, and covers the wide-ranging geopolitical, economic, and social ramifications of this enduring conflict.

For leaders with global aspirations, understanding the dynamics of the Middle East conflict is paramount. It’s not just about the immediate consequences; it’s about comprehending how this crisis reshapes alliances, trade routes, and cooperation among nations. Africa, in particular, stands at a crossroads, as the continent’s leaders must navigate the shifting landscape of international relations.

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The Middle East intersects with Africa’s economic future, especially as the Global South consolidates into a formidable bloc. While the immediate focus is on the localized violence in Gaza, there are broader consequences already unfolding. The shifting alliances due to the conflict that is already emerging, will reorient around how African countries will engage the Gulf, the Middle East and even the broader Global South. 

In comparing the ripple effects of the Middle East conflict to the Russia-Ukraine war unveils subtle yet impactful consequences. While the latter disrupted grain imports and energy markets, the former exerts its influence in even sharper ways. Particular attention is paid to the rise of extremist activities across Africa. Yet it is the clear gap of leadership in the West amidst this crisis that is strengthening the growing consolidation of BRICS nations, as well as the need for investment and trade routes that connect the Middle East and Africa directly. Political solidarity is giving way to economic solidarity. 

In response to these challenges, African leaders must seize the opportunities presented by the vacuum left by Western powers. By providing leadership and resources in humanitarian efforts, Africa can assert its continental power projection. Moreover, this moment offers a unique chance for African businesses to expand into regions traditionally dominated by Western brands.

Taufiq Rahim has a personal background from East Africa, which has enriched his perspective on these issues. His professional journey, spanning investment, technology, and global development, provides valuable insights into the economic impact of Middle East conflicts on Africa, and the broader implications in a shifting world order.. By drawing on his experiences, Rahim illuminates the path forward for African leaders amidst current global events.

In conclusion, the Middle East conflict’s repercussions are already reverberating across continents. Africa must rise to the occasion, leveraging its strengths to navigate these turbulent times and forge a brighter future for all.

 

About the Book

Since the devastating attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent bombardment by Israel of Gaza, there has been an escalating crisis in the Middle East. With an overflow of news, images, and social media, it is hard to make sense of it all. Middle East in Crisis and Conflict: A Primer distills the information, insights, and implications you need to navigate ongoing developments.

Rahim comprehensively but concisely threads together the current moment and the wider context. Drawing on a background working across many of the countries affected and in different spheres–humanitarian, political, and business–he highlights the main facts, stakeholders, and historical moments in one highly readable volume. The Primer is certain to be a leading starting point for experts and observers alike for the events of October 7 and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict overall.

About the Author

Taufiq Rahim is a Strategist, investor, and writer  who focuses on the intersection of global geopolitics and transformative technology in a changing world. He first began work in the Middle East in the rural communities of Syria in 2003 and is currently building platforms within the 2040 World nexus. Taufiq Rahim’s deep ties to East Africa and his extensive professional background make him a trusted voice on issues of global significance. Through his work, he continues to advocate for meaningful solutions to complex challenges facing our world today.

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The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) partners Nigerian Agencies To Address Nigeria’s Flood Risk Communication

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The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) , UK, MET Office, and various Nigerian disaster agencies marks a significant step towards addressing the pressing issue of improving the effectiveness of flood risk communication in Nigeria.

During the high-level meeting held in Abuja today, all disaster management agencies’ Directors and Director General were presented with research findings and recommendations from a 6-month intensive fieldwork project that involved engaging with the most vulnerable communities across the country.

Mr. Donovan Timothy, the Project lead from the UK Meteorological Office (Met Office), expressed optimism about the results of engaging with vulnerable communities. He stressed the importance of proactive disaster communication management strategies and urged stakeholders to work collaboratively to boost resilience and preparedness for potential disasters.

“We are confident that the partners involved in this project will effectively articulate and implement the recommendations provided. We aimed to streamline the process, tailor the recommendations to each agency’s capabilities, and ensure they can be seamlessly implemented across all communication channels outlined in the report. By making the guidelines agency-specific and easy to follow, we believe they will facilitate an efficient and successful execution of the proposed strategies.”

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“It is imperative to enhance the communication strategy in Nigeria to protect the vulnerable population from the destructive effects of frequent flooding, which result in significant loss of lives, damage to properties, and mass displacement of people. Addressing the communication gaps is crucial to ensure timely and effective dissemination of information, warnings, and instructions to those at risk. By improving communication channels and strategies, we can increase preparedness, response, and resilience efforts, ultimately minimizing the impact of disasters on our communities. “He added

According to the Director General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, Engr. Clement Nze, “Flooding is a serious threat to our nation, causing widespread devastation and loss of life.  Effective flood risk communication is critical to mobilizing communities to take action and build resilience. We are grateful for FCDO’s support in helping implement key recommendations from a recent report.”

The Steering Committee consisting of representatives of all disaster management agencies, Met Office, and the communication consulting firm, McEnies Global Communication jointly identified opportunities that need to strengthen inter-agency coordination, utilize innovative communication channels, deploy targeted messaging for at-risk groups, and improve monitoring and evaluation of communication efforts.

 With these recommendations, FCDO opines that The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), National Water Resources Institute (NIWR), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), National Orientation Agency (NOA)and other stakeholders will work together to implement selected recommendations from the report.

Also present at the meeting was Dr. Matthew Adepoju, the Director of the Strategic Space Application Department of The National Space Research Development Agency, (NASRDA) representing the Director General, Dr. Halilu Shaba Ahmad, emphasized the importance of incorporating diverse media platforms in the implementation processes for enhanced efficiency.

Dr. Adepoju highlighted that involving The Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) would be beneficial in broadcasting these commendable initiatives effectively. He urged for prompt inclusion of BON in the endeavor to ensure the attainment of significant success and wider recognition. The collaborative effort with media outlets such as BON, as suggested by Dr. Adepoju, aims to maximize the impact and reach of the agency’s endeavors.

The UK FCDO remains steadfast in its dedication to assisting Nigeria in enhancing resilience against climate change and natural calamities. By prioritizing improved flood risk communication, lives can be saved through the empowerment of local communities with essential information necessary for adequate preparation and response during flood incidents.

This collaborative effort not only underscores the importance of proactive measures but also demonstrates a shared commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals affected by such disasters. It is through these strategic interventions that the UK FCDO and Nigeria can work together to mitigate the impact of environmental challenges and foster sustainable development for future generations.” 

The collaboration is part of the UK government’s wider support for disaster risk reduction in Nigeria, which includes projects focused on flood modeling and forecasting, data collection networks, and disaster risk management planning.  By improving inter-agency coordination and adopting best practices in risk communication, this initiative aims to build a more robust and integrated flood early warning system for Nigeria.

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Navigating The Evolution: The Future of Retail and E-commerce in Nigeria

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By: F. O Elegba 

Tracing the evolution of e-commerce in Nigeria is a compelling journey that mirrors the nation’s technological evolution. Rewind to the early 2000s when the internet began to weave its way into the fabric of everyday life, Nigerians still had a lackadaisical approach to shopping online, then. e-commerce pioneers emerged, navigating uncharted digital territories.

In those nascent years, online transactions faced skepticism due to concerns about cybersecurity and a lack of trust in digital payments. Yet, trailblazers persisted. Platforms like Konga and Jumia took the bold step of creating online marketplaces offering a variety of products to a population hungry for convenience. The mid-2010s marked a turning point as internet accessibility expanded. With the proliferation of smartphones, more Nigerians could connect to the digital realm and this shift in connectivity was a game-changer, providing the momentum needed for e-commerce to gain widespread acceptance. 

Simultaneously, innovative payment solutions emerged, addressing the trust deficit. The adoption of cash-on-delivery options bridged the gap between traditional and online shopping, gradually building confidence among consumers to make the leap into the digital marketplace. As the last decade unfolded, a surge in local startups disrupted the e-commerce landscape. Entrepreneurs harnessed the power of social media, creating platforms tailored to the Nigerian market. 

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This localization trend not only diversified product offerings but also embraced the cultural nuances that define Nigeria’s diverse consumer base. The COVID-19 pandemic, though challenging, accelerated the ecommerce boom. Lockdowns and safety concerns fueled a surge in online shopping, pushing both business and consumers to embrace digital transactions more than ever before. 

As Nigeria embraces the digital era, the landscape of retail and e-commerce is undergoing a transformative shift. With a burgeoning population and increasing internet penetration, the future promises a dynamic blend of traditional retail and tech-driven shopping experiences. Having traversed the diverse landscapes of both local and Western retail experiences, I foresee an intriguing future for Nigeria’s retail and e-commerce sectors- a future where the convergence of tradition and technology paints a vibrant picture. In Nigeria, where community bonds are strong, brick-and-mortar stores remain integral. 

However, the digital wave is unmistakable. With a deep understanding of the local market and Western retail dynamics, I believe that e-commerce will be a catalyst for change, providing unparalleled convenience to a tech-savvy and young population. The future isn’t about the demise of brick-and mortar stores, rather it’s a harmonious convergence of physical and digital realms. Retailers are likely to embrace innovative technologies, such as augmented reality and AI-driven personalization, to enhance in-store experiences and stay competitive. The Key lies in adapting global best practices to the unique nuances of Nigeria. 

As digital payment solutions gain traction, we’re witnessing a shift towards cashless transactions, marking a pivotal moment for the e-commerce landscape. This digital evolution is not about replacing traditional markets but rather enhancing and expanding their reach. I see the potential for innovative technologies to redefine the in-store experience in Nigeria. Augmented reality and AI driven personalization can be seamlessly integrated to cater to diverse consumer preferences and elevate the overall shopping experience.

Yet, success in this evolving landscape hinges on more than just technological advancements, it requires a deep understanding of local intricacies and commitment to building trust. Cybersecurity measures must be robust to reassure consumers, while business practices should be transparent to foster confidence in online transactions. In this narrative of change, the fusion of local insights with global perspectives becomes paramount. As someone with dual experiences, I advocate for an inclusive approach that embraces the tapestry of Nigeria’s cultural diversity while leveraging the efficiency and innovation from Western practices. 

In the coming years e-commerce is poised to play a pivotal role in reshaping consumer behavior, the convenience of online shopping, coupled with evolving payment solutions, will drive a surge in digital transactions and as logistics infrastructure improves, the scope for nationwide delivery networks will further boost the e-commerce ecosystem. In conclusion, the future of retail and e-commerce in Nigeria is a harmonious blend of tradition, technology, local wisdom and global innovation. 

A tale of synergy- striking the right balance between traditional and digital strategies, coupled with customer-centric solutions by bridging worlds and adapting strategies with cultural sensitivity. Nigeria can unlock its true potential of retail landscape in the exciting chapters that lie ahead, and as stakeholders we must embrace innovation, adaptability, and inclusivity to thrive in the exciting time ahead.

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