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FG to fine PoS operators N1m for illegal pricing

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The Federal Government, through the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, has issued a cease-and-desist order to Point of Sale operators from conduct that constitutes an infringement of the law.

This follows the move by PoS operators, under the umbrella of the Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria, to fix new prices for PoS transactions.

The new pricing model began on July 17, 2023.

According to the commission, PoS operators that are found in violation of the order will pay N10m for corporate entities and N1m and, or, a prison sentence of up to three months for individuals.

The FCCPC, in a statement signed by its Executive Vice Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer, Babatunde Irukera, on Monday, said, “The Commission advises PoS operators that violation of an order of the Commission attracts additional consequences apart from the underlying illegal conduct that is the subject of the order such as up to N10,000,000 for corporate entities; and N1,000,000 and or a prison sentence of up to three months for individuals.”

The commission noted that it has not sought to limit the prerogative of PoS service providers to determine and set prices for services in a manner of their choosing, subject to Section 127 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, which prohibits manifestly unjust or exploitative prices.

It stated that it respects and encourages a pricing methodology that is the product of market forces in a free, competitive, and undistorted market. However, it said there is no evidence that the PoS market lacks sufficient players or competition in Lagos or anywhere else.

The commission said, “While the Commission continues to provide consideration to, and for small businesses, enforcing the law must remain non-negotiable.

“Accordingly, the Commission, in escalating this in accordance with the FCCPA and ancillary instruments, has entered an Order & Notice (ONC) of the Commission to AMMBAN, persons identified as executives, members, and non-member PoS operators to Cease and Desist from conduct that constitutes an infringement of the law.”

It said the ONC had been served on AMMBAN. It was also noted that not all members can be personally served or will become aware through service on AMMBAN.

It further stated, “In addition, some persons, such as non-AMMBAN members, may become subject to the ONC. Accordingly, the Commission has, and is by this again publicly disseminating the ONC. Members are however invited to consider sufficiency of service of the ONC under Section 158(4) of the FCCPA which deems such service on their association or executives as adequate and acceptable.”

According to the commission, it had tried the cautious and collaborative approach but has now adopted the ONC to convey its will to enforce the law, including, and up to prosecuting violators and affiliates who may otherwise be statutorily liable for the conduct of a violating company or business.

It added, “In addition to stipulated statutory consequences, although the Commission prefers not to disrupt the business and operations of small enterprises, it will (if it becomes necessary) prohibit merchant services and privileges to PoS operators or AMMBAN members who persist in conduct that is inconsistent with law and economic efficiency.”

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The Buy-and-Hold Strategy for Lagos Real Estate Investors by Dennis Isong

Population is increasing, businesses are expanding, and land is becoming more valuable. If done right, a buy-and-hold strategy can secure long-term wealth for any investor.

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If you’re thinking of making serious money in Lagos real estate, you must understand one of the most reliable strategies: buy-and-hold.

This is when you buy a property, hold it for years, and allow its value to appreciate while earning rental income.

Lagos is a dynamic and ever-growing city.

Population is increasing, businesses are expanding, and land is becoming more valuable. If done right, a buy-and-hold strategy can secure long-term wealth for any investor.

Why Buy-and-Hold Works in Lagos Land and Property Appreciate Fast Lagos is a land of gold—figuratively.

With high demand and limited land space, properties in strategic locations appreciate fast.

If you bought land in Lekki Phase 1 twenty years ago, you could sell it today for more than 20 times the original price.

The earlier you buy, the better. Steady Rental Income Lagos is home to millions of people, and many prefer renting rather than buying.

A well-located property can generate steady rental income that grows over time.

The more people move into Lagos, the higher the rental demand.

Beating Inflation Nigeria’s economy has its ups and downs, but real estate always finds a way to stay ahead of inflation.

While the value of the naira fluctuates, properties continue to appreciate. This makes real estate a safe hedge against inflation.

Steps to Succeed in the Buy-and-Hold Strategy

1. Pick the Right Location Lagos has different property markets. Some areas grow faster than others.

Choose a location based on your investment goal.●      For rapid appreciation: Look at developing areas like Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, or parts of Ikorodu.●      For steady rental income: Invest in places with high demand for rentals, like Yaba, Surulere, Lekki, or Ikeja.●      For luxury and long-term gains: Consider high-end areas like Ikoyi, Banana Island, or Victoria Island.

Do your research, visit the location, and study the growth trends before investing.

2. Buy from a Trusted Source Lagos real estate is lucrative, but it’s also filled with scams.

Many investors have fallen victim to land disputes or properties with unclear titles.

Ensure that the property has proper documentation—like the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or a Governor’s Consent.

Work with a reliable real estate professional who understands the Lagos market.

Don’t fall for “cheap deals” without verifying ownership.3. Decide Between Land or Built Property ●      Buying land is great for long-term appreciation. You can hold it for years and sell later at a higher price.●      Buying a house or apartment gives you immediate rental income while still appreciating in value.

If you have the patience to wait, land investment is powerful. If you want regular cash flow, go for rental properties.

4. Maximize Rental Income If your goal is passive income, make your property attractive to tenants. Consider:●      Security: Lagos tenants prioritize safety.●      Amenities: Good roads, water supply, and electricity boost rental value.●      Short-let options: Platforms like Airbnb can give you higher returns, especially in areas like Lekki and Victoria Island.

If your property is well-maintained, you’ll attract quality tenants and increase your rental value over time.

5. Be Patient and Think Long-Term Real estate is not a quick-money scheme. The buy-and-hold strategy requires patience. Lagos properties appreciate, but it takes time.

Many investors regret selling too early when they see the prices skyrocketing years later.

Think of real estate like fine wine—it gets better with time. Potential Risks and How to Overcome Them Government Policies Policies like land use charges or demolitions can affect investments.

Stay updated with real estate laws in Lagos. Work with professionals to ensure your property is compliant.

Maintenance Costs

 If you own rental property, you’ll need to maintain it. Set aside funds for repairs and upgrades to keep it attractive to tenants.

Bad Tenants

 Some tenants may refuse to pay or damage your property.

Screen tenants properly before renting out your property, and have a solid lease agreement.

The buy-and-hold strategy is a proven way to build wealth in Lagos real estate. It allows you to generate rental income while your property appreciates in value.

With proper planning, the right location, and patience, your investment will reward you in the long run.

So, are you ready to secure your future with Lagos real estate? Start now—because five years from today, you’ll wish you had.

Dennis Isong and team.

+2348164741041+2348028667565

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President Pledges Support for Fintech Companies As Flutterwave Seeks Listing on NGX

The CEO of Flutterwave, Agboola, said the company has made it easy for Nigerians to pay for some global services with Naira and provided payment platforms for Nigerians in the diaspora who are willing to send money to families and relatives in the country.

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▪︎In picture: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister for Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, Chief Executive Officer Flutterwave, Mr Olugbenga Agoola and CEO Alami Capital, Miss Olu Seun Olufemi-White, after a  Meeting at the Presidential Villa Abuja.

President Tinubu said his administration will support businesses in the financial technology sector that provide payment infrastructure services for Nigerians and Africans.

He said this when he received the leadership of Flutterwave and Alami Capital in Abuja on Saturday afternoon.

Flutterwave, a leading Fintech company founded by young Nigerians and headquartered in Lagos, operates in the U.S., Canada, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, South Africa, and 29 other African countries. Olugbenga Agboola, the CEO; Adeleke Adekoya, a co-founder; Oluwabankole Falade and Mitesh Popat, represented Flutterwave at the meeting.

Ms Oluseun Olufemi-White represented Alami Capital as its CEO. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Mr Wale Edun led the delegation to meet President Tinubu.

Dr. Armstrong Ume Takang, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), and Dr. Inuwa Kashifu Abdullahi, the Director General/ Chief Executive Officer of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), also attended.

President Tinubu said Nigeria is genuinely open to business, and as President, he is determined to remove all obstacles to allow companies to thrive.

He commended Flutterwave’s commitment to building capacity in the digital economy sector, especially as it is being made possible by energetic, young Nigerians.

He said he is honoured to be the President of a country with such a youthful and resourceful population.

He said the leadership Flutterwave provides in the digital world is what Nigeria needs today to grow its economy and make life easier for most of its population.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, said Flutterwave has made significant progress since its establishment 10 years ago.

It has created jobs and helped diversify the economy by providing innovative digital platforms and payment services in Nigeria and across Africa.

The CEO of Flutterwave, Agboola, said the company has made it easy for Nigerians to pay for some global services with Naira and provided payment platforms for Nigerians in the diaspora who are willing to send money to families and relatives in the country.

He said Flutterwave, valued at over $3 billion, is a Nigerian export and brand employing over 1,000 Nigerians.

He said the company seeks to be listed on the Nigerian Exchange and solicited the President’s support.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive of MOFI, Dr.  Armstrong Ume Takang, said that as Africa’s biggest economy, Nigeria must demonstrate its economic prowess by strategically positioning products and services by Nigerian companies, such as Flutterwave, in the homes of all Africans.

He said Flutterwave spends millions of dollars monthly on hosting services, but that money goes to other countries.

He suggested supporting Galaxy Backbone’s hosting services to enable it to handle companies like Flutterwave.

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FG Mandates IRWG to Revives over 700 Moribund Industries

The 22-member IRWG team was inaugurated in Abuja, on Thursday this week,  by Senator  John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry,  and co-chaired by Francis Meshioye, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

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The Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has affirmed that the recently inaugurated Industrial Revolution Working Group (IRWG) by the Federal Government, will go a long way in “waking up those more than 700 industries that have been shutdown for one reason or the other across the manufacturing sector and ensure that they don’t leave the country or be shut again”.

Ajayi-Kadir, expressed the confidence during the launch of the IRWG members team, saying that the group would ignite the revival in the sector and ensure the creation of an environment that is conducive.

The 22-member IRWG team was inaugurated in Abuja, on Thursday this week,  by Senator  John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry,  and co-chaired by Francis Meshioye, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

Other members of the group include the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry,  Trade and Investment. , representatives from the Ministry of Power, the Ministry of Finance, MAN, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACIMMA), and others.

IRWG Mandates

The Minister said that the mandates of the revolution group are :

1.  Rejuvenate, innovate, and elevate Nigeria’s industrial future.

2. The IRWG would focus on addressing regulatory bottlenecks, power supply issues, and customs procedures.

3. The IRWG should anchor its efforts on four pillars which include revitalizing dormant industries, infrastructure, and energy solutions, technology innovation, access to finance, and competitiveness.

4. Conduct meticulous audits of industries that once thrived but have since stagnated.

5. Formulating bespoke intervention strategies for their resurgence.

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