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CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...

November 06, 2008
12:50
I have one name for you : OBAMA!
» ‎ Read entry @ CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...
October 26, 2008

20:57

Vacancy- Health Programme Development Manager- Abuja Nigeria

» ‎ Read entry @ CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...

1:57
Arrested Nigerian Blogger , Now in the hands EFCC
» ‎ Read entry @ CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...

Jonathan Elendu, the Nigerian blogger recently arrested in Abuja has apparently been transfered into the custody of the EFCC, one wonders on what grounds and what kind of message the govenment is sending out with this kind of action.
Bloggers now form an important part of the media mix, In most progressive societies the bloggers are allowed to express opinions freely this latest trend cannot be a positive development and in all honesty will not have the desired effect infact the people in charge should realise they are about to intensify the impact of Nigeria related blogs.
Instead of the current unhealthy approach, please charge Jonathan Elendu to court if you have a case against him or release him immediately if not.

For more Information on this read
www.nigeriancuriosity.com/2008/10/nigerian-blogger-arrested.html
1:57
Arrested Nigerian Blogger , Now in the hands of EFCC
» ‎ Read entry @ CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...

Jonathan Elendu, the Nigerian blogger recently arrested in Abuja has apparently been transfered into the custody of the EFCC, one wonders on what grounds and what kind of message the govenment is sending out with this kind of action.
Bloggers now form an important part of the media mix, In most progressive societies the bloggers are allowed to express opinions freely this latest trend cannot be a positive development and in all honesty will not have the desired effect infact the people in charge should realise they are about to intensify the impact of Nigeria related blogs.
Instead of the current unhealthy approach, please charge Jonathan Elendu to court if you have a case against him or release him immediately if not.

For more Information on this read
Global Voices
www.nigeriancuriosity.com/2008/10/nigerian-blogger-arrested.html
October 11, 2008
13:24
48th Independence day celebrations, Abuja House, Kensington London
» ‎ Read entry @ CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...

Pictures from the Independence day celebrations held in London at the residence of the Nigerian High commissioner to the United Kingdom His Excellency, Alhaji Dalhatu Tafida and his wife.

Other guests Included Dr Peter Obi, Ananmbra state Governor and Dr Yomi Majekodunmi Ogun State representative.

And a surprise visit from Charles Oputa, a.k.a. Charly Boy
October 05, 2008
12:21
14th International Association of Peace-Keeping Training Centres (IAPTC) conference.
» ‎ Read entry @ CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...

Nigeria's capital city of Abuja will from Monday play host to more than 150 participants from about 60 countries, who will be attending the 14th International Association of Peace-Keeping Training Centres (IAPTC) conference.

The IAPTC is an organisation of military, police and civilian training institutions involved in the education and training of service personnel in Peace Support Operations.

Ahead of the conference, representatives of top military, police and civilian training institutions across Africa, representing the African chapter of the IAPTC, have arrived in Abuja for this weekend's discussions aimed at finalising details of the proposed African Standby Force (ASF).

Rear Admiral John Jonah, Commandant of the Nigerian Defence College - the host body of the week-long meetings -- told journalists here that issues relating to the setting up of the Standby Force, the deployment of the troops and the training of the Force would be at the centre of the African chapter of IAPTC meeting.

Admiral Jonah said the operational Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the African Standby Force (ASF) and its funding would also be looked at to ensure that the objectives of the Force are met.

"The international conference of Peace-Keeping Centres will be preceded by a meeting of its African chapter, this weekend in Abuja. Thankfully, our patron and former (Nigerian) head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, will be at the meeting. The meeting will focus mainly on the African Standby Force, its deployment, funding, and training. We will also take a critical look at the MOU for the Force.

"At the international meeting, though the conference is open to any organisations or individuals interested in education and training of peace operations, advocacy groups would not be allowed here. It is not a forum for advocacy groups to promote causes or is it an occasion for the addressing of operational issues," he said.

The Canadian and Nigerian governments are jointly funding the international conference.
September 29, 2008
18:43
Maternal and Child Health Technical Advisor-Abuja Nigeria
» ‎ Read entry @ CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...

Closing date: 17 Nov 2008
Location: Nigeria - Abuja
PSI seeks entrepreneurial, dynamic candidates for the position of Maternal and Child Health Technical Advisor to the Society for Family Health (SFH), PSI’s partner agency in Nigeria. This management team-level position is based in Abuja and will report to the SFH Managing Director in Nigeria and to the PSI Regional Director, West & Central Africa in Washington, D.C.

SFH is the largest social marketing organization and local non-profit organization in Nigeria, with sixteen regional offices across the country and over 250 staff. SFH implements diverse public health interventions in HIV/AIDS, reproductive health, and maternal and child health. SFH activities range from product sales and distribution to behavior change communication, advocacy, research, and community mobilization. SFH’s donor platform includes DFID, the Global Fund for HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria and USAID.

The MCH division has several projects currently in the areas of malaria, diarrhea diseases and care and support to people living with HIV/AIDS, orphans and vulnerable groups. The MCH division seeks to consolidate its expertise in malaria control programming in light of the Scaling Up for Impact Malaria Strategy of the Federal Ministry of Health and strategically grow its overall portfolio in accordance with the SFH five year strategic plan.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provide technical guidance to ongoing maternal and child health (MCH) programs;
- Assist SFH and strengthen MCH department capacity to design MCH projects, develop and implement key strategies, and write proposals;
- Give input to marketing and implementation plans and budgets;
- Work with SFH to document and disseminate research findings through publication and other methods;
- Strengthen the capacity of and provide technical support to SFH MCH program staff to build their skills in interpreting research results and using a research-to-action approach to guide programmatic decisions and activities;
- Strengthen the capacity of and provide technical support to SFH MCH program staff to develop and maintain programmatic feedback mechanisms for effective program management;
- Expand and consolidate existing partnerships with the Ministry of Health and National Malaria Control Program, MCH implementing partners, civil society groups, private sector and international partners;
- Remain abreast of technical developments in the field of international public health, specifically MCH;
- Provide technical support to a) the units under the Federal Ministry of Health Public Health department as appropriate to influence MCH policies for Nigeria; and b) civil society, public and private sectors groups to ensure best practices are carried over; and
- Support SFH as appropriate in developing capacity of MCH to fully represent the organization at the international level.

QUALIFICATIONS:
- Master's degree in public health, health communication, or other relevant discipline;
- Minimum eight years professional and managerial experience, including at least five in a developing country;
- Familiarity with MCH and/or Child Survival programming, particularly with issues related to malaria and water, sanitation and diarrheal disease;
- Knowledge of international development issues, specifically as relate to MCH;
- Familiarity with the international donor community;
- Experience in capacity building of staff;
- Excellent organizational and multitasking capabilities; and
- Fluency in English required;

The successful candidate will exhibit creative, innovative, and strategic thinking ability; excellent oral and written communication, analytical, organizational interpersonal and cross-cultural skills; ability to train, manage and develop capacity within country-level staff; ability to work closely with program staff to deliver actionable and insightful research outputs; strong attention to detail; ability to work efficiently and quickly under pressure; strong interest in private sector approaches to development; and proven ability to produce results and meet objectives under difficult circumstances. How to apply
APPLY ONLINE at http://www.psi.org No calls or emails, please. PSI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation or disability.

18:29

UNDP PROGRAMME ANALYST-Abuja (Nigerian Nationals)

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PROGRAMME ANALYST (POVERTY PROGRAMME ? PRIVATE SECTOR)
Location :	Abuja, NIGERIA
Application Deadline :	10-Oct-08
Additional Category	Poverty Reduction
Type of Contract :	100 Series
Post Level :	NO-B (National Officer)
Languages Required :	English
Starting Date : (date when the selected canditate is expected to start)
Duration of Initial Contract :	One Year


This is a National Officer position open to Nigerian nationals. Under the overall guidance of the Deputy Country Director (Programme), and direct supervision of the Poverty Team Leader (TL), the Programme Analyst is responsible for the execution of assessments, provision of technical advice and programme planning, management and monitoring related to poverty reduction He/she will participate in mainstreaming human and capacity development into programme activities, including policy and programme development, implementation and monitoring, social protection strategies, income and employment generation activities, community based development programmes The Programme Analyst is especially expected to support monitor, assess and advise on national and State policies, regulatory frameworks, plans and programmes as well as donor interventions in support of private sector development, especially for (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) MSMEs. This will include approaches to increased financial access which benefit the poor by helping them to establish and grow enterprises that are integrated within successful value chains and provide stable and productive employment, increased income and a broader array of products and services at the bottom of the pyramid. The approach in the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is to foster development in a way that directly engages and benefits the poor as producers as well as consumers. The Programme Analyst provides matrixed supervision together with the Poverty Team Leader of assigned programme support staff and works in close collaboration with Programme Team members , the Operations team, the Planning and Partnerships Unit (PPU), staff from other UN agencies, UNDP Headquarters, donors, senior managers and technical experts from the private sector and civil society organizations to ensure successful implementation of UNDP-supported programmes.

Functions /Key Results Expected Provision of top quality policy advisory services to the UNDP Country Office and the Government on private sector development - especially of MSMEs - that has clear links with poverty reduction. Development and management of the country office poverty programmes with particular emphasis on a successful private sector programme built around MSME development that enables poverty reduction. Creation of strategic partnerships, bringing together the Government, UN agencies, donors and private sector entities. Design and execution of resource mobilization strategies for financing a growing programme portfolio with emphasis on private sector development. Support to other programmes managed by the Poverty Team as well as other programmes in the different UNDP practice areas, especially but not exclusively focused on identifying and developing opportunities for the integration of the private sector, particularly MSMEs, in different capacities. 1. Ensures design of private sector intervention opportunities, strategies and projects focusing on achievement of the following results: Thorough analysis and research of the situation in the country, including monitoring the growth of the private sector in the country particularly MSMEs - as well as the policy, legal and regulatory framework affecting such growth, including evolving developments, constraints, opportunities and successes. Preparation of substantive inputs in these areas for the Common Country Assessment (CCA), United Nations Development Assistance Framework ( UNDAF), Country Programme Document ( CPD), Country Programme Action Plan ( CPAP), Annual Work Plans (AWPs) and other documents. Identification of potential areas for support and intervention by UNDP. Detailed design and formulation of programmes and projects, ensuring introduction of performance indicators targets and milestones as well as resource mobilisation and cost recovery objectives. 2. Contribute to effective management of the Poverty Programme portfolio with emphasis on the private sector component, ensuring quality control, and focusing on the achievement of the following results: Effective application of? Results Based Management (RBM) tools, establishment of management targets Balanced Score Card (BSC) and monitoring achievement of results; Coordination of programme implementation with the executing and implementation agencies Initiation of projects , presentation of projects for appraisal by the Project Appraisal Committee (PAC), entering projects into the country offices Management information system - ATLAS, finalization of contribution agreements; determination of required revisions; coordination of mandatory and budget re-phasing exercises , closure of projects through review. Programme Analysts perform the role of Manager level 1 in Atlas for Purchase Orders (Pos) and voucher approval, participates in recruitment processes for projects. Evaluation of programme impact. Monitoring and analysis of the programme environment, timely readjustment in portfolio. Financial and substantive monitoring and evaluation of projects , identification of operational and financial problems and development of solutions. Participation in the audit of nationally executed (NEX) projects. 3. Develop strategic partnerships and implement resource mobilization strategies focusing on the achievement of the following results: Development of partnerships on private sector development with UN agencies, international financial institutions, bilateral and multilateral donors, government institutions, the organized private sector, civil society organizations and other stakeholders. This should be based on the strategic goals of UNDP, the countrys needs and donors priorities. Analysis and research information on donors, preparation of substantive briefs on possible areas of cooperation and identification of opportunities for initiating new projects, active contributions to the overall Country Office effort in resource mobilization. 1. Provide high quality policy advisory services to UNDP and the Government and facilitate knowledge management focusing on the following results: Development of adequate technical capacity to support a highly professional and high quality programme portfolio through development of internal capacity, and creation of national and international support networks of technical experts. Identification and synthesis of best practices and lessons learnt directly linked to the the poverty programme with emphasis on the private sector portfolio and related aspects of other programmes. Sound contribution to knowledge networks and communities of practice on development management and private sector-drive poverty reduction initiatives. Organization of trainings for the operation and project staff on programme issues particularly on poverty programmes. Support to the preparation of high-quality communication products for programme implementation and, more broadly, to publicise the progress and performance of the private sector programme. IV. Impact of Results The key results have impacts on the overall success of the Country Offices programme; in particular, the key results have impact on the design, operation and programming of activities, creation of strategic partnerships as well as reaching resource mobilization targets .In specific terms , it has impacts on the following results areas: Pro-poor policy articulation and advisory services promoted. The Country Office?s overall poverty reduction strategy implementation enhanced. Team-building and management strengthened. Donor intelligence and strategic partnership improved. Resource mobilization and management improved. Policy advocacy promoted.

Competencies Corporate competencies: Promotes the vision, mission and strategic goals of UNDP Demonstrates integrity, by modelling the UNs values and ethical standards Displays cultural, gender, religion, race,nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability Treats all people fairly and without favouritism Functional competencies Technical knowledge: Demonstrates a good knowledge of development policy analysis with emphasis on private sector development. Displays a good understanding of the progress and prospects for private sector development its features and dynamics in . Demonstrates an in-depth understanding of the MSME sub-sector, including issues related to inclusive finance (modern micro finance and beyond). Demonstrates ability to link private sector development to poverty reduction and human development. Knowledge management and learning Promotes a knowledge sharing and learning culture in the office. Builds up knowledge in at least one practice area (poverty focused on private sector development). Ability to advocate and provide policy advice. Actively works towards continuing personal learning and development in one or more practice areas, act on learning plans and applies newly acquired skills. Development and operational effectiveness Ability to formulate and lead strategic planning, management and reporting following RBM principles, methods and tools. Ability to lead formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of development programmes and projects and mobilize resources. Strong IT skills. Ability to implement new systems and effect behavioural or attitudinal change. Ability to monitor and evaluate development projects and programmes. Leadership and Management Focuses on impact and results for the client and responds positively to feedback. Leads teams effectively and shows conflict resolution skills. Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude. Demonstrates strong oral and communication skills. Builds strong relationships with clients and external actors. Remains calm, in control, and good humoured even under pressure. Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities.

Education: Masters degree or its equivalent in Economics, Business Administration, Public Administration, and other relevant Social Sciences. Experience: 5-7 years of relevant experience at national and/or international level in providing development management services, with particular reference to design and management of poverty policies and programmes, poverty analysis , including design, monitoring and evaluation of development projects and programmes with particular emphasis on design and management of policies related to informal and financial sector analysis (especially micro finance); and institutional development analysis.In-depth knowledge of MSME environment and trends in micro finance in and worldwide is essential. Working experience in relevant areas in the private sector would be an asset. Fluency in the use of software (at a minimum, word processing, presentations and spreadsheets) is essential. Language requirements Fluency (both written and spoken) in English, with the ability to communicate clearly and convincingly to a broad range of audiences. Ability to communicate in at least one national language. Click here for more information

September 25, 2008
18:13
Can you make a difference? Check out Google's Project 10100 Initiative
» ‎ Read entry @ CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...
One thing we do have in abundance in Nigeria apart from ... is the abundance of human capital.
Contrary to the opinions I've heard from some quarters I strongly believe we have a nation of very creative individuals.

Well in celebration of their 10 years in existence, google is setting aside $10 million dollars to fund brilliant Ideas that can have significant impact on society.

The completion is open to everyone.

So come on people If you have any quality Ideas send them in you never know!

         How it works
Project 10¹⁰⁰ (pronounced "Project 10 to the 100th") is a call for ideas to change the world by helping       as many people as possible. Here's how to join in.

1. Send us your idea by October 20th.
      Simply fill out the submission form giving us the gist of your idea. You can supplement       your proposal with a 30-second video.

2. Voting on ideas begins on January 27th.
We'll post a selection of one hundred ideas and ask you, the public, to choose twenty semi-finalists. Then an advisory board will select up to five final ideas. Send me a reminder to vote.

3. We'll help bring these ideas to life.
We're committing $10 million to implement these projects, and our goal is to help as many people as possible. So remember, money may provide a jumpstart, but the idea is the thing.

Good luck, and may those who help the most win.
               Submit your idea
Remember, the deadline is
October 20th, 2008
            Guidelines
Our goal is to set as few rules as possible. However, we ask that you put your idea into one of the following       categories and consider the evaluation criteria below.
      Categories:
- Community: How can we help connect people, build communities and protect unique cultures?
- Opportunity: How can we help people better provide for themselves and their families?
- Energy: How can we help move the world toward safe, clean, inexpensive energy?
- Environment: How can we help promote a cleaner and more sustainable global ecosystem?
- Health: How can we help individuals lead longer, healthier lives?
- Education: How can we help more people get more access to better education?
- Shelter: How can we help ensure that everyone has a safe place to live?
- Everything else: Sometimes the best ideas don't fit into any category at all.
Criteria:
- Reach: How many people would this idea affect?
- Depth: How deeply are people impacted? How urgent is the need?
- Attainability: Can this idea be implemented within a year or two?
- Efficiency: How simple and cost-effective is your idea?
- Longevity: How long will the idea's impact last?
For more Information click here
17:56
Fighting poverty is good for business
» ‎ Read entry @ CyBlug (GidiBlog) - Abuja, Nigeria and Beyond ...

Ten private companies, including a Nigerian firm Olam Nigeria a major rice producer are being honoured for their work in improving the lives of the world's most disadvantaged people, according to a UNDP statement received by PANA Wednesday.

From a family-owned soybean business in Ghana, to one of the leading telecommunications companies in the Philippines, these firms prove that making a profit and 'doing the right thing' are not mutually exclusive.

read the full report

In other news,
Expert hinges SME growth on sound business ethics
by EMEKA EZEKIEL

The executive chairman of Trithel International Consulting Limited, Joseph Akpieyi, has identified sound business ethics as an indispensable pillar for building profitable large and small scale enterprises in Nigeria .

Trithel, a member of the British Quality Foundation and the Nigerian Institute for Training and Development (NITAD), is a front-line consulting firm that provides a portfolio of professional services in critical business areas such as quality management, human capital training, engineering and e-business consultancy, among other things.

Speaking during an international conference on business ethics in Lagos, Akpieyi explained that given the impact of globalisation on business concerns, there is growing need for both Large Scale Enterprises(LSE) as well as Small Scale Enterprises(SMEs) in Nigeria to adopt universally acceptable business principles to enable them grow and compete effectively in the global market place.

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