News, Jobs, Scholarship and Business Tips: Jul 13, 2018

Friday, July 13, 2018

Job Vacancy For Creative Marketing Manager at Hypebuzz

Hypebuzz - We an influencer marketing agency, connecting brands with influencers to create standout campaigns that drive actions. Our creator network includes Africa's top influencers and content creators, Maraji, Lasisi, Lola OJ, Bollylomo and BrodaShaggi and others. Since inception our influencer led campaigns have generated over 100 million views with video content across social media for brands like like Coca-Cola, Unilever, Uber and MTV Base.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Creative Marketing Manager

Location: Lagos

Summary

Hypebuzz is seeking a Creative Marketing Manager who will oversee and direct the creative development and implementation of all marketing activities. In this dynamic, fast-moving role, you will need to apply strong self-organization and time management skills while demonstrating pro-active initiation and follow through on a broad range of actions.
The ideal candidate possesses not only a firm working knowledge of marketing and promotions but must be proficient in all major desktop publishing applications including Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office amongst other graphic design, file conversion and troubleshooting softwares.

Responsibilities

Marketing Strategy: Creation and implementation of marketing strategies for influencer campaigns in conjunction with brands. Full spectrum campaign planning across production, marketing (digital and traditional), social media, sales, promotion.
Project Management: Act as the marketing lead for specific projects. This includes conceptualizing the overall marketing plan, budget and strategy for the campaign and then executing it. Ability to assess campaigns and strategically change their course by having an understanding of the process.
Marketing Plans: The candidate will be responsible for creating well thought out and creative plans for the agency.
Project Budgeting: Create smart marketing budgets that help deliver maximum visibility while also focusing on the highest return on investment.
PR Outreach & Guidance: Creation of a strong PR campaign for the company that compliments the other marketing and sales activities.
Digital Marketing Strategy: Creating creative, innovative content, campaigns and events that engage fans utilizing pre-existing social platforms and new technologies.
Community Relations: understand, be immersed and have thorough knowledge of the entertainment sector and best practices in digital and social media platforms, and grassroots/street marketing.
Data Driven Analytics: present clear analytics and know how to query and speak to specific data points that are meaningful to account relations and brand expectations.

Key Competencies

Must be tech savvy with deep understanding of current & forthcoming technologies and general market trends
Candidates should be creative, innovative, detail-oriented and resourceful. Must be able to prioritize and multitask
Creatively build and manage budgets to support marketing activities
Knowledge of social media best practices and how to put together a social media plan, build a fan base, etc.
Must have strong industry relationships and vision to work with in house and 3rd party PR, Promo and online marketing teams

Requirements

Relevant qualifications in PR, Business, Marketing or related field
Experience strategizing and executing day-to-day marketing activities, campaigns, as well as pitching proposals for prospective clients (please be prepared to provide examples of or discuss projects you've worked on).
Experience with cross-promotional marketing and branding
Existing relationships with brands and existing contacts at digital platforms
Good influencing skills and the ability to build effective relationships
3+ years’ experience in marketing.
Must be proficient in all major desktop publishing applications including: Adobe Creative Suite – InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat. Microsoft office – Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Excellent command of graphic design principles, practices, formats, typography, printing and layout.
Understanding of conversion issues present when using applications across all platforms.
Understanding of how to troubleshoot problem files.
Some knowledge of Final Cut Pro or any other major video editing software is a plus.

Application Closing Date
31st July, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's and Cover Letter to: hypebuzzrecruitment@gmail.com
Or
Click here to apply online

Note

Kindly as also include link/attachments to relevant social media pages, previous work or portfolio, publications, certifications, recommendations, etc. where available.

Job Vacancy For Brand Account Manager at Hypebuzz

We are Hypebuzz - An influencer marketing agency, connecting brands with influencers to create standout campaigns that drive actions. Our creator network includes Africa's top influencers and content creators, Maraji, Lasisi, Lola OJ, Bollylomo and BrodaShaggi and others. Since inception our influencer led campaigns have generated over 100 million views with video content across social media for brands like like Coca-Cola, Unilever, Uber and MTV Base.

Our team is young and dynamic, passionate about entertainment, social media, marketing and business. We want to be a home for the creative community in Africa; to inspire and support creatives to positively impact Africa and the world. We’re a small but growing team and you’ll fit right in if you’re dedicated to being the best at what you do, enjoy challenges and are a self starter. We have a flat hierarchical structure, so there's no bureaucracy, the most important thing is to get the job done, with integrity, quality and speed and to have fun while you do it.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Brand Account Manager

Location: Lagos

Job Summary

Hypebuzz is seeking an experienced and driven account manager to win new business and manage brand partners.
This position will primarily focus on new business development via strategic sales, creative concepting, and project management engagements for brand clients.
The Manager will be responsible for managing the day-to-day client relationships, communicating the clients’ needs, determining objectives, success metrics and collaborating with the internal team to ensure that plans are presented and delivered effectively. A passionate, business and sales centric profile is a must.

Responsibilities

Win new business and secure brand partnerships
Manage new and existing accounts to ensure long-term success and revenue growth
Build customized presentations to sell campaign and program opportunities to partners
Manage efforts internally and externally to ensure successful execution of projects
Create and manage account P&L to maximize profitability and measure ROI
Proactively communicate with agency, media and production partners to enhance account relationship

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, Advertising, Communications, Economics, or Business preferred.
3-5 Years Experience of Sales Experience, Account Management, or other relevant experience
A strong network of clients who hold decision making responsibilities for strategic marketing partnerships with brands, agencies and media houses
Experience in delivering multi-platform brand sponsorship campaigns
Proven success and experience selling to brands and their agencies
Experience working with talent is a plus

Key Competencies:

A clear understanding of how brands operate
A strong commercial understanding and a hunger to generate opportunity and revenue
Skilled at bringing concepts to life through written presentations
Excellent communication skills with all levels of executives, management and staff
Ability to handle multiple projects and meet tight deadlines
Self-starter, will take initiative with new projects
Professional demeanour in dealing with clients and co-workers
Advanced working knowledge of Microsoft Office Applications including Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
Ability to operate in a highly collaborative manner and work well under pressure

Application Clsoing Date
31st July, 2018.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's and Cover Letter to: hypebuzzrecruitment@gmail.com

Note: Kindly as also include link/attachments to relevant social media pages, previous work or portfolio, publications, certifications, recommendations, etc. where available.

Job Vacancy For New Business Manager at Hypebuzz Nigeria

We are seeking an experienced and driven account manager to win new business and manage brand partners.
This position will primarily focus on new business development via strategic sales, creative concepting, and project management engagements for brand clients.
The Manager will be responsible for managing the day-to-day client relationships, communicating the clients’ needs, determining objectives, success metrics and collaborating with the internal team to ensure that plans are presented and delivered effectively. A passionate, business and sales centric profile is a must.

Responsibilities

Win new business and secure brand partnerships
Manage new and existing accounts to ensure long-term success and revenue growth
Build customized presentations to sell campaign and program opportunities to partners
Manage efforts internally and externally to ensure successful execution of projects
Create and manage account P&L to maximize profitability and measure ROI
Proactively communicate with agency, media and production partners to enhance account relationship.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, Advertising, Communications, Economics, or Business preferred.
3-5 Years Experience of Sales , Account Management, or other relevant experience
A strong network of clients who hold decision making responsibilities for strategic marketing partnerships with brands, agencies and media houses
Experience in delivering multi-platform brand sponsorship campaigns
Proven success and experience selling to brands and their agencies
Experience working with talent is a plus.

Key Competencies:

A clear understanding of how brands operate
A strong commercial understanding and a hunger to generate opportunity and revenue
Skilled at bringing concepts to life through written presentations
Excellent communication skills with all levels of executives, management and staff
Ability to handle multiple projects and meet tight deadlines
Self-starter, will take initiative with new projects
Professional demeanour in dealing with clients and co-workers
Advanced working knowledge of Microsoft Office Applications including Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
Ability to operate in a highly collaborative manner and work well under pressure

Application Closing Date

Not Specified.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Note: No Recruiters or startup services please, strictly individuals

Job Vacancy For Performance Excellence Manager (Technology, Projects & Capex Engineering) at First Excelsia Professional Services

FirstExcelsia is a firm of highly versatile and renowned Human Resources, Organisational Development and Management consultants with a team of over a hundred employees spread across Nigeria. We have an in-depth understanding of the Nigerian business terrain and we are very passionate about partnering with indigenous organisations to develop glocalised HR solutions, processes and structures required to develop and effectively drive our clients' corporate strategies.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Performance Excellence Manager (Technology, Projects & Capex Engineering)

Location: Lagos

Job Description

Determine the performance excellence vision including the strategic building blocks and strategic focus for each block.
Ensure seamless execution of strategy and action plans for Technology, Capex Engineering and Project Office.
Has end to end responsibility for the Technology, Capex Engineering, Programme and Project organization including structure, capabilities, governance and ensures alignment between the organizational design and strategy of units.
Responsible for end to end implementation and continuous improvement of the blueprint
Ensure an appropriate programme/project management framework is in place and incorporates key parameters/performance measures and value adding topics.
Establish formal and standard reporting arrangements on projects/programme.
Define criteria for control/management of programmes/project and the end to end responsibility of programme /project budget for the OPCO.
Be the interface between the business/programme/project owners and the programme/project manager to ensure delivery of critical business objectives/portfolios.
Ensure and secure resources for projects and programmes including the right capabilities.
Responsible for all asset care in the function working with the Performance Excellence Manager for Engineering
Own the process of maintaining an efficient unified and fully integrated technology system.
Develop and implement measures to improve the business. Be the “go to person” in the team that supports functional business improvement ambitions.
Develop potential changes and make suggestions to colleagues to improve the business.
Oversee key performance improvement initiatives. Facilitate/set up multidisciplinary teams to lead business process improvement.
Direct the implementation of Safety, Health and Environment standards and policies in functional areas.

Requirements

At least 8years cognate experience in the FMCG
Must be well grounded in project management data analytics
Must be knowledgeable in business process formulation and implementation.

Remuneration
Very attractive and negotiable.

Application Closing Date
16th July, 2018.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: careers@firstexcelsia.com using the job title as subject of the mail.

Job Vacancy For Head, Accounts and Finance at First Excelsia Professional Services

First Excelsia Professional Services - Our client, in the financial service sector, is recruiting suitably qualified candidates to fill the position below:

Job Title: Head, Accounts and Finance

Location: Lagos

Job Description

The job holder will be responsible for overall financial management, regulatory & financial reporting, budget and forecasts preparation of the company.

Main Responsibilities

Leads the company’s financial accounting, reporting and control activities and ensuring they are carried out efficiently and in line with the best practice and statutory requirements.
Provides accurate and timely financial services including setting monthly budgets, forecasts, cash flow analysis, management of financial accounts and advice support that will inform decision making at all level.
Manages the annual audit process in conjunction with the appointed external auditors to ensure statutory accounts are produced within the required timelines.
Monitors financial performance by measuring and analyzing results; initiating corrective actions, minimizing the impact of the variances.
Develop and document business processes and accounting policies to maintain and strengthen internal controls.
Ensure timely preparation and rendition of Audited Financial Statements (AFS) and the timely filing of the AFS with the relevant statutory agencies.
Responsible for month-end and year-end accounting period close of process and monthly trial balance review to ensure integrity and correctness of the company’s accounting records.
Coordinates the preparation and renditions of statutory returns and compliance within the statutory provisions.
Ensures Quality Control over financial transactions and financial reporting by ensuring timely trial balance review, preparation of schedules to accounts and bank reconciliation reports.
Develops annual operating budgets as well as all project budgets and oversees them.
Manage and comply with Local, State and Federal Government statutory requirements and tax filings.
Develops and documents business processes and accounting policies to maintain and strengthen internal controls.
Perform other assigned duties and responsibilities by Management.

Requirements

B.Sc/B.A in Accounting, Finance or related courses.
6 - 8 years’ experience.
Professional membership of ICAN, ACCA etc.
M.Sc/ MBA is an added advantage
In-depth knowledge of accounting principles, laws and best practices.
Solid Knowledge of financial analysis and forecasting.
An analytical mind with strategic abilities.
Excellent organizational and leadership skills.

Application Closing Date
3rd August, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV’s to: executivesearch@firstexcelsia.com using "Head, Accounts and Finance" as the subject of the mail.

Job Vacancy For Fleet Manager at First Excelsia Professional Services

First Excelsia Professional Services - Our client in the financial service sector, is currently recruiting suitably qualified candidates to fill the position below:

Job Title: Fleet Manager

Location: Lagos

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and outstanding Fleet Manager.

Job Responsibilities

Maintain vehicles' dispatch systems
Provide leadership & coordinate activities of team members
Maintain accurate documentation of all lease transactions
Ensure client satisfaction from external & internal customers
Develop processes & policies for procurement, fleet management and internal operations
Ensure total compliance with established processes
Achieve cost saving targets through proper vendor management & service level agreements.
Create and implement policies and standard operating procedures in key operational areas to maximize output
Perform a significant role in long-term planning and establishment of initiatives aimed at enhancing management reporting and overall organizational growth
Review departmental budgets and managing costs

Job Requirements

4 - 6 years fleet management experience in a business-to-business & leasing environment.
Bachelor's degree in any field.

Application Closing Date
3rd August, 2018.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: careers@firstexcelsia.com Using "Fleet Manager" as subject of the mail.

Job Vacancy For Software Developer at First Excelsia Professional Services

First Excelsia Professional Services - Our client, in the financial service sector, is recruiting suitably qualified candidates to fill the position below:

Job Title: Software Developer

Location: Lagos

Job Description

The Software Developer will be responsible for the design and implementation of software from start to finish, fixing of bugs and errors related to applications and the deployment and testing of third party applications acquired.

Person Specification

Minimum of 3 years’ relevant working experience.
Advanced knowledge of the stages of software development.
Proven experience with programming languages and databases

Application Closing Date
19th July 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV’s to: talentsearch@firstexcelsia.com using "Software Developer" as subject of the mail

Team Lead - Learning and Development at First Excelsia Professional Services

FirstExcelsia is a firm of highly versatile and renowned Human Resources, Organisational Development and Management consultants with a team of over a hundred employees spread across Nigeria. We have an in-depth understanding of the Nigerian business terrain and we are very passionate about partnering with indigenous organisations to develop glocalised HR solutions, processes and structures required to develop and effectively drive our clients' corporate strategies.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Team Lead, Learning and Development

Location: Lagos

Job Description

We are currently recruiting a Team Lead, Learning and Development Executive for our client in the financial services sector.
The executive will be responsible for leading the learning and development team in the design and delivery of quality learning and development solutions that meet individual and organizational needs

Person Specification

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management, Industrial Relations, Business Administration or a related field.
Minimum of 3 years’ experience in Learning & Development, Organizational Development, Human Resources or a similar job function.
HR Professional Certifications will be regarded as an added advantage.

Application Closing Date
19th July 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should forward their CV's to: talentsearch@firstexcelsia.com using “L&D Executive” as subject of the mail.

Job Vacancy For Software Solutions Architect at First Excelsia Professional Services

First Excelsia Professional Services - Our client in the Financial services sector, is currently recruiting suitably qualified candidates to fill the position below:

Job Title: Software Solutions Architect

Location: Lagos

Job Description

The Software solutions architect will be accountable for the design, development, quality assurance and delivery of innovative software solutions and customer facing applications.

Person Specification

Minimum of 5 years' experience in software development & solutions architecture role.
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Management Information Systems or any relevant discipline.
Strong Mobile - Android & IOS architecture.
Proven Experience in HTML5, CSS, javaScript, Jquery, ESB and SOA.
Experience with enterprise integration tools and extract, transformation and load (ETL) tools.

Application Closing Date
19th July, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should forward their CV's to: talentsearch@firstexcelsia.com using the job title as subject of the mail.

Job Vacancy For Head, Internal Operations and Logistics at First Excelsia Professional Services

FirstExcelsia is a firm of highly versatile and renowned Human Resources, Organisational Development and Management consultants with a team of over a hundred employees spread across Nigeria. We have an in-depth understanding of the Nigerian business terrain and we are very passionate about partnering with indigenous organisations to develop glocalised HR solutions, processes and structures required to develop and effectively drive our clients' corporate strategies.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Head, Internal Operations and Logistics

Location: Lagos

Job Description

The job holder will be responsible for driving internal operations for the organisation by supervising staff; planning, organizing, and implementing administrative processes & functions.

Roles & Responsibilities

Improves and maintains the organisation’s dispatch system, vehicle inspections and visitations. Ensures proper documentation of all lease transactions are obtained & maintained.
Responsible for implementation and execution of all fleet support needs, including vehicle maintenance and repairs, fuel cards and expenses, vehicle assignment and tracking, and GPS management.
Operating Lease Transactions. Provides business support for the organisation.
Provides procurement and analytical expertise, including research, cost modeling and analytical support services, to inform procurement and category management, decision-making and strategy.
Defines the purchasing policy and ensures its implementation in accordance with current standards and objectives in terms of quality and cost of materials and supplies required within the organisation.
Formulates and drives a consistent approach towards sourcing, purchasing and tendering activity within the organisation, ultimately ensuring that value for money is maximized and cost savings are generated.
Monitoring the quality and timeliness of materials and goods supplied; follow-up the status of purchase orders with vendors to ensure timely delivery and onward delivery to departments / units.
Ensures that the company’s assets are well managed and utilized. Managing the operational and strategic functions for the organisation to ensure compliance and efficiency with company SOPs and all applicable laws and regulations.

Requirements

B.Sc./B.A in Business Administration or any other relevant field.
M.Sc. is an added advantage
7 - 10 years’ proven experience as an Administration Manager / Senior Administration officer.
In-depth understanding of office management procedures, departmental and legal policies.
Familiarity with financial and facilities management principles.
Excellent organisational and multitasking abilities.

Application Closing Date
3rd August, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should forward their CV's to: talentsearch@firstexcelsia.com using the job title as the subject of the mail.

Quality Assurance Engineer (Abuja) at Chlorophyll Ventures Limited

Chlorophyll Ventures (trading as Chlorophyll Energy) is an Energy services and solutions provider that offers cutting-edge technology and strategic consulting for a sustainable energy sector.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Quality Assurance Engineer

Location: Abuja

Responsibilities

Survey of customers' site to provide necessary information for installation.
Monitor the progress of work on site.
Audit Sites to ensure installation is done according to best practice and standard.
Carry out Material Reconciliation
Ensure proper reporting of activities.

Qualification

At least HND in Electrical Engineering
At least 3 years relevant experience
COREN, and experience on metering and renewable energy projects will be an advantage
Good working knowledge of MS Outlook, Word and Excel.

Skills:

Sound ethics and integrity
Creative and Innovative
A good team player
Good Interpersonal Relationship
Safety consciousness.
Attention to detail.
Analytical Skills
Problem Solving Skills
Good Communication Skills
Ability to be flexible and adaptable
Ability to work under pressure and under minimal supervision

Salary
Between 90,000 - 100,000 Naira.

Application Closing Date
15th July, 2018.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: info@chlorophyll-solutions.com using the 'Quality Assurance Engineer Abuja' as the subject of the mail.

Job Vacancy For Graduate Technician (Lagos) at Chlorophyll Ventures Limited

Chlorophyll Ventures (trading as Chlorophyll Energy) is an Energy services and solutions provider that offers cutting-edge technology and strategic consulting for a sustainable energy sector.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Graduate Technician

Location: Lagos

Responsibilities

Installation and maintenance of metering systems as well as deploying renewable energy solution.

Requirements

At least an HND in Electrical Engineering.
At least 1 year experience in electrical installations.

Salary
Between 60,000 Naira - 90,000 Naira.

Application Closing Date
18th July, 2018.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: info@chlorophyll-solutions.com using the Position as the subject of the mail.

Job Vacancy For Quality Assurance Engineer (Lagos) at Chlorophyll Ventures Limited

Survey of customers' site to provide necessary information for installation.
Monitor the progress of work on site.
Audit Sites to ensure installation is done according to best practice and standard.
Carry out Material Reconciliation
Ensure proper reporting of activities.

Qualifications

At least HND in Electrical Engineering
At least 3 years relevant experience
COREN, and experience on metering and renewable energy projects will be an advantage
Good working knowledge of MS Outlook, Word and Excel.

Skills:

Sound ethics and integrity
Creative and Innovative
A good team player
Good Interpersonal Relationship
Safety consciousness.
Attention to detail.
Analytical Skills
Problem Solving Skills
Good Communication Skills
Ability to be flexible and adaptable
Ability to work under pressure and under minimal supervision.

Salary
Between N90,000 - N100,000.

Application Closing Date
18th July, 2018.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: info@chlorophyll-solutions.com Using the Position as the subject of the mail.

Job Vacancy For Graduate Technician (Abuja) at Chlorophyll Ventures Limited

Chlorophyll Ventures (trading as Chlorophyll Energy) is an Energy services and solutions provider that offers cutting-edge technology and strategic consulting for a sustainable energy sector.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Graduate Technician

Location: Abuja

Job Description

We seek to recruit smart and hardworking candidates for a Technical position at Chlorophyll Ventures Limited.

Responsibilities

Installation and maintenance of metering systems as well as deploying renewable energy solution.

Requirements

At least an HND in Electrical Engineering.
At least 1 year experience in electrical installations.

Salary

Between 60,000 Naira - 90,000 Naira.

Application Closing Date
18th July, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV’s to: info@chlorophyll-solutions.com using the 'GRADUATE TECHNICIAN ABUJA' as the subject of the mail

Job Vacancy For Digital Marketing Manager at Contec Global Infotech Limited

Contec Global Group - Established in 1984 and headquartered in London, the Contec Global Group has a worldwide presence, with operations in Asia, Africa and Europe. As a company established on the platform of e-Governance and smart technologies, Contec Global is amongst the most experienced independent technology and systems organizations operating in developing countries. Today, the Group is engaged, globally, in providing integrated, systems-based solutions in the fields of Secure Technologies, Infrastructure and Hospitality.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Digital Marketing Manager

Location: Lagos

Job Description

Perform research on current benchmark trends and audience preferences
Design and implement social media strategy to align with business goals
Set specific objectives and report on ROI
Generate, edit, publish and share engaging content daily (e.g. original text, photos, videos and news)
Monitor SEO and web traffic metrics
Collaborate with other teams, like marketing, sales and customer service to ensure brand consistency
Communicate with followers, respond to queries in a timely manner and monitor customer reviews
Oversee social media accounts’ design (e.g. Facebook timeline cover, profile pictures and blog layout)
Suggest and implement new features to develop brand awareness, like promotions and competitions
Stay up-to-date with current technologies and trends in social media, design tools and applications

Application Closing Date
15th July, 2018.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Job Vacancy For Sales Coordinator at Contec Global Infotech Limited

Contec Global Group - Established in 1984 and headquartered in London, the Contec Global Group has a worldwide presence, with operations in Asia, Africa and Europe. As a company established on the platform of e-Governance and smart technologies, Contec Global is amongst the most experienced independent technology and systems organizations operating in developing countries. Today, the Group is engaged, globally, in providing integrated, systems-based solutions in the fields of Secure Technologies, Infrastructure and Hospitality.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Sales Coordinator

Location: Lagos

Job Description

Coordinate sales team by managing schedules, filing important documents and communicating relevant information
Ensure the adequacy of sales-related equipment or material
Respond to complaints from customers and give after-sales support when requested
Store and sort financial and non-financial data in electronic form and present reports
Handle the processing of all orders with accuracy and timeliness
Inform clients of unforeseen delays or problems
Monitor the team’s progress, identify shortcomings and propose improvements
Assist in the preparation and organizing of promotional material or events
Ensure adherence to laws and policies

Application Closing Date
15th July, 2018.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Job Vacancy For Business Development Executive at Contec Global Infotech Limited

Contec Global Group - Established in 1984 and headquartered in London, the Contec Global Group has a worldwide presence, with operations in Asia, Africa and Europe. As a company established on the platform of e-Governance and smart technologies, Contec Global is amongst the most experienced independent technology and systems organizations operating in developing countries. Today, the Group is engaged, globally, in providing integrated, systems-based solutions in the fields of Secure Technologies, Infrastructure and Hospitality.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Business Development Executive

Location: Ogun

Job Description

Responsible for building on agent, customer and revenue growth targets through effective development of a distribution network.
To be successful you will need to be comfortable spending significant time in the field motivating the agents, and driving both to exceed set targets.
You must be someone with a strong ability to influence and work collaboratively with merchandising teams.
The ideal candidate must have a clearly-demonstrated track record in channel recruiting and sales target at a fast moving consumer goods company or mobile money or telecom.
The candidate must also have demonstrated skills in driving volumes through a channel, relationship building, monitoring and evaluating results to devise strategies.
Grow the merchant and customer touch point network into the largest multi-channel network.
Actively listen to customer requirements or challenges and provide a strategic fit to any of our products or solutions
Managing the sales process for new prospects, from initial contact through to closure
Any other job assigned by HOD as per need

Requirement

Candidates should possess relevant qualifications.

Application Closing Date
16th July, 2018.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Job Vacancy For Agent Retention Specialist at Contec Global Infotech Limited

Contec Global Group - Established in 1984 and headquartered in London, the Contec Global Group has a worldwide presence, with operations in Asia, Africa and Europe. As a company established on the platform of e-Governance and smart technologies, Contec Global is amongst the most experienced independent technology and systems organizations operating in developing countries. Today, the Group is engaged, globally, in providing integrated, systems-based solutions in the fields of Secure Technologies, Infrastructure and Hospitality.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Agent Retention Specialist

Location: Lagos

Job Description

Develop new strategies for customer retention activities.
Respond to customer queries and address service complaints in a timely manner.
Work with Sales Manager in implementing sales promotion activities.
Track contracts that are soon to be expired and contact customers for renewals.
Develop product presentations and demonstrations to customers.
Analyze customer feedbacks and develop new techniques to ensure customer retention.
Provide excellent customer services and ensure customer satisfaction.
Build positive working relationships with customers for repeat businesses.
Explain customers about new products and benefits.
Make sales calls to existing and new customers for business growth.
Perform customer negotiations and reach a fair conclusion from both business and customer perspectives.

Application Closing Date
16th July, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Job Vacancy For Accountant at Contec Global Infotech Limited

Prepares asset, liability, and capital account entries by compiling and analyzing account information.
Documents financial transactions by entering account information.
Recommends financial actions by analyzing accounting options.
Summarizes current financial status by collecting information; preparing balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and other reports.
Substantiates financial transactions by auditing documents.
Maintains accounting controls by preparing and recommending policies and procedures.
Guides accounting clerical staff by coordinating activities and answering questions.
Reconciles financial discrepancies by collecting and analyzing account information.
Secures financial information by completing data base backups.
Maintains financial security by following internal controls.
Prepares payments by verifying documentation, and requesting disbursements.
Answers accounting procedure questions by researching and interpreting accounting policy and regulations.
Complies with federal, state, and local financial legal requirements by studying existing and new legislation, enforcing adherence to requirements, and advising management on needed actions.
Prepares special financial reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing account information and trends.
Maintains customer confidence and protects operations by keeping financial information confidential.
Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
Accomplishes the result by performing the duty.
Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed. Kindly send CV deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Application Closing Date
20th July, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Job Vacancy For Accountant at Contec Global Infotech Limited

Prepares asset, liability, and capital account entries by compiling and analyzing account information.
Documents financial transactions by entering account information.
Recommends financial actions by analyzing accounting options.
Summarizes current financial status by collecting information; preparing balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and other reports.
Substantiates financial transactions by auditing documents.
Maintains accounting controls by preparing and recommending policies and procedures.
Guides accounting clerical staff by coordinating activities and answering questions.
Reconciles financial discrepancies by collecting and analyzing account information.
Secures financial information by completing data base backups.
Maintains financial security by following internal controls.
Prepares payments by verifying documentation, and requesting disbursements.
Answers accounting procedure questions by researching and interpreting accounting policy and regulations.
Complies with federal, state, and local financial legal requirements by studying existing and new legislation, enforcing adherence to requirements, and advising management on needed actions.
Prepares special financial reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing account information and trends.
Maintains customer confidence and protects operations by keeping financial information confidential.
Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
Accomplishes the result by performing the duty.
Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed. Kindly send CV deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Application Closing Date
20th July, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Job Vacancy For Accountant at Contec Global Infotech Limited

Prepares asset, liability, and capital account entries by compiling and analyzing account information.
Documents financial transactions by entering account information.
Recommends financial actions by analyzing accounting options.
Summarizes current financial status by collecting information; preparing balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and other reports.
Substantiates financial transactions by auditing documents.
Maintains accounting controls by preparing and recommending policies and procedures.
Guides accounting clerical staff by coordinating activities and answering questions.
Reconciles financial discrepancies by collecting and analyzing account information.
Secures financial information by completing data base backups.
Maintains financial security by following internal controls.
Prepares payments by verifying documentation, and requesting disbursements.
Answers accounting procedure questions by researching and interpreting accounting policy and regulations.
Complies with federal, state, and local financial legal requirements by studying existing and new legislation, enforcing adherence to requirements, and advising management on needed actions.
Prepares special financial reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing account information and trends.
Maintains customer confidence and protects operations by keeping financial information confidential.
Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
Accomplishes the result by performing the duty.
Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed. Kindly send CV deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Application Closing Date
20th July, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Job Vacancy For Accountant at Contec Global Infotech Limited

Prepares asset, liability, and capital account entries by compiling and analyzing account information.
Documents financial transactions by entering account information.
Recommends financial actions by analyzing accounting options.
Summarizes current financial status by collecting information; preparing balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and other reports.
Substantiates financial transactions by auditing documents.
Maintains accounting controls by preparing and recommending policies and procedures.
Guides accounting clerical staff by coordinating activities and answering questions.
Reconciles financial discrepancies by collecting and analyzing account information.
Secures financial information by completing data base backups.
Maintains financial security by following internal controls.
Prepares payments by verifying documentation, and requesting disbursements.
Answers accounting procedure questions by researching and interpreting accounting policy and regulations.
Complies with federal, state, and local financial legal requirements by studying existing and new legislation, enforcing adherence to requirements, and advising management on needed actions.
Prepares special financial reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing account information and trends.
Maintains customer confidence and protects operations by keeping financial information confidential.
Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
Accomplishes the result by performing the duty.
Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed. Kindly send CV deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

Application Closing Date
20th July, 2018.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to: deborah.ogbodu@nownow.ng

THE NEWS: Fake news, hate speech threat to national security — Information Minister

Fake news, hate speech threat to national security — Information Minister
source: NAN
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed on Friday described the growing level of fake news and hate speech in the country as a threat to the National Security.

Mohammed stated this when he featured on the NTA flagship programme: ‘Good Morning Nigeria’ entitled, “Combating Damages of Fake News in Nigeria,” monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.

The minister said that fake news whether at the Local Government, National and International levels have potential to threaten the peace, security and the corporate existence of the country.

He recalled that hate speech and fake news contributed largely to the genocide that ravaged Rwanda in 1994, describing fake news as a scourge that must be discouraged.

According to him, the biggest prank that can consume the world today is fake news and if not curtailed its consequences might be worst than all the crises that the world had witnessed.

He further explained that fake news had the potential to set up one community against the other and one country against another.

“The essence of launching the campaign against fake news on Wednesday is to sensitise Nigerians to understand the dangers posed by fake news because it threatens not just peace and security but it is also a threat to the very corporate existence of a nation.

“In particular, in a country like Nigeria which is a multi-ethnic and religious, fake news and hate speech is time bomb.

“We also launched the campaign to sensitise Nigerians that each and every one of us can play a role in combating the rising level of fake news.

“Fake news is a global issue, it is not just a Nigerian issue but we are more concern about Nigeria because of the potential it has to our corporate existence,” Mohammed said.

He said that the campaign against fake news would be domesticated to the Local Government and Wards levels using the structure of the National Orientation Agency in the country.

The minister said that the farmers and herders’ clashes are being fuelled by fake news, adding that the recently released report of BBC revealed that fake news was responsible for the escalation of herdsmen and farmers crisis.

He appealed to all Nigerians to understand the dangers inherent in fake news for national interest, adding that campaign against fake news was a national assignment.

“In 2017, we did drew attention to the phenomenon of fake news, we were so concerned and worried and decided to dedicate an entire National Council on Information meeting to examine fake news and hate speech because we saw that people were already exploiting our national front.

“We advise all members of the council to ensure that they can vouch for the credibility of any information before they publish it.

“We also advise them not to share any information whose credibility they cannot vouch for.

“It is true that the major pivotal of fake news is probably the social media but gradually it is also penetrating into the traditional media.

“The moment media organisation loses its credibility, the society is in trouble,” Mohammed said.

THE NEWS: Herdsman resists arrest, kills policeman in Kebbi

Herdsman resists arrest, kills policeman in Kebbi
source: punchng.com

The Police Command in Kebbi on Thursday confirmed that a suspected herdsman had killed a policeman, Umaru Danladi, at Kaoge in the Bagudo Local Government Area of the state.

It said the herder, Babuga Kuaara, had already been arrested for the alleged offence, adding that the deceased policeman was attached to the Kaoje Police Division in Bagudo Local Government Area.

The suspected herdsman was reported to the police division by a farmer in the area that the herder grazed his cows on his farm, destroying the crops on Wednesday evening.

A witness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told newsmen on Thursday that ”a police officer attached to Kaoje police division was ordered to go and arrest the herder who was still wandering with his cattle within the area.

“The police officer who came with his rifle, arrested the suspect, but as he was taking him to the waiting patrol vehicle, the herder drew his machete and stabbed the officer on his neck.

“We saw the officer groaning in pains and bleeding but he died before we could apply first aid. The herder was overpowered by officers who rushed to the scene,” the witness said.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Mustapha Suleiman, told journalists that the suspect had been arrested.

THE NEWS: Russia admits defeat on its 'stealth' F-35 killer by canceling mass production on the Su-57 fighter jet

Russia admits defeat on its 'stealth' F-35 killer by canceling mass production on the Su-57 fighter jet
source: pulse.ng

The Su-57, a plane meant to function as a killer of US F-35 and F-22 stealth jets with an innovative array of radars, saw a brief period of combat over Syria, but the deployment only lasted days and didn't pit the jet against any threats befitting a world class fighter.

play

Russia's Su-57 fighter jet. Only 12 have been ordered, and no more orders are coming. (Dmitry Terekhov/Flickr)

Russia announced earlier this month that the Su-57, its proposed entry into the world of fifth-generation stealth fighters, will not see mass production.
The jet had some promising capabilities in combat, but design and production difficulties made it a difficult project with limited export potential.
This move represents a failure for Russia to manage its huge defense budget and breadth of projects and to find buyers for its version of a jet meant to take on US stealth fighters.

Russia announced earlier this month that the Su-57, its proposed entry into the world of fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft, will not see mass production.

“The plane has proven to be very good, including in Syria, where it confirmed its performance and combat capabilities,” Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said on Russian TV on July 2, as The Diplomat reports.

But despite Russia's non-stop praise for the plane and dubious claims about its abilities, Borisov ultimately said, "The Su-57 is considered to be one of the best aircrafts produced in the world. Consequently, it does not make sense to speed up work on mass-producing the fifth-generation aircraft.”

Justin Bronk, a combat aviation expert at the Royal United Services Institute, told Business Insider that Borisov's comments "could be charitably described as an unreasonably optimistic reason why they stopped production."

Basically, Borisov said the plane is so much better than everything out there, they don't need to build it, which Bronk finds unlikely.

Instead, Russia will stick to what it's good at with upgraded fourth generation aircraft in service instead of the Su-57, which originally was meant to replace the older fighters.

The Su-57, a plane meant to function as a killer of US F-35 and F-22 stealth jets with an innovative array of radars, saw a brief period of combat over Syria, but the deployment only lasted days and didn't pit the jet against any threats befitting a world class fighter.

Initially proposed as a joint project with India, the Su-57 hit trouble when neither side could agree on how to split the production and technological development. After 11 years in the program, India withdrew, leaving Russia to go it alone with a weak economy.

Now, India has been discussed as a potential buyer of the F-35 in another blow to Russia's dream of developing its own fifth-gen fighter.
Su-57 was never really fifth-generation, and never really stealth

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null (Russian Embassy via Twitter)

A senior stealth scientist recently told Business Insider that though the jet claimed a stealthy profile, it had glaring and obvious flaws. A 2016 report from IHS Janes stated the jet was fifth generation "in name only."

But the Su-57 carries a massive payload, and was slated to one day carry nuclear weapons. Like the Su-35 before it, had super maneuverability beyond that of any US jet.

By all means, the Su-57 appeared a next-level dogfighting jet capable of taking out the US's best fighters in close combat, but its failure to integrate stealth made getting in close with an F-35 or F-22 an unlikely bet.

Bronk said Russia must have looked at the program and realized that it didn't have the potential, even with upgrades and maturation, to ever work out to be worth the price. At around $40 million a unit, Russia's Su-57 is less than half the price of an F-35, but considerably more expensive than its other jets.

"Russia is more or less admitting defeat in building a feasible fifth-generation fighter," said Bronk.

For that price, according to Bronk, Russia can just put the fancy radars and missiles on its older planes in greater numbers, as the Su-57's airframe was never really stealth in the first place.

Russia is currently working on new tanks, submarines, and nuclear weapons, all of which tax its already large defense budget. With other projects going forward, it appears the Su-57 has become the first casualty of the budget crunch.

As the US's F-35 starts to come on line in significant numbers, and China's J-20 stealth jet deploys in earnest, it looks like Russia is getting left behind in the world of top-class militaries.

THE NEWS: US pitches Europe its gas as alternative to Russia's

US pitches Europe its gas as alternative to Russia's
source: AFP

AFP / OLGA MALTSEVA Buy our gas, not theirs

US Energy Secretary Rick Perry urged European nations Thursday to boost their imports of American liquified natural gas as an alternative to building new pipelines to Russia.

When President Donald Trump came out swinging against the Nord Stream 2 pipeline at the NATO summit, he accused Germany of selling itself and its allies out to Russian influence.

But when Perry met with European Union officials, he took a less geopolitical tack, focusing instead on the economic and technological benefits of more trans-Atlantic trade.

"The United States does not support pipelines such as Nord Stream 2 and a multi-line Turk Stream that will only increase reliance on a single source of supply," Perry told reporters.

The Nord Stream and Turk Stream developments are controversial because they will connect Russian gas fields to the central European market, bypassing neighbors like Ukraine.

This will, in the eyes of opponents, empower the Kremlin to bully its former satellites in the east while making the western allies even more beholden to Russian energy supplies.

Trump, who never misses a chance to accuse Angela Merkel's Germany of free-riding on US generosity, told NATO that Nord Stream 2 would make Berlin "captive" to Russian interests.

But Perry, taking up the case at his first meeting of the EU-US Energy Council, focused on the economic potential of receiving more shipments of American LNG.

"The president has often discussed the concept of 'American First' and don't make any mistake about it. That doesn't mean 'America Alone'," Perry told a joint US-EU news conference.

"It means that when you're thinking about a new market provider, when you're thinking about a new innovation partner, we want you to think about America first," he said.

In recent years, advances in extraction technology have made the United States one of the leading producers of natural gas, a fossil fuel but one that is relatively clean and efficient.

According to the US Energy Information Adminstration, US exports of LNG soared from 0.5 billion cubic feet per day in 2016 to 1.94 billion cubic feet per day last year.

But more than half of US exports go to just three countries -- Mexico, South Korea, and China -- and the European Commission says less than one percent of Europe's gas come from America.

Meanwhile, 41 percent of EU gas imports come from Russia.

Perry said that new LNG expert terminals are coming on line in the eastern United States and that US and European scientists and engineers are working togther to improve supply.

- Sanctions an option -

Some in Washington have called for Nord Stream 2 and its leaders, such as its chairman former German chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, to be added to US Treasury sanctions lists.

Perry said he would prefer not to go that route, but warned that "sanctions are always an option."

European Commission vice-president and head of the bloc's energy team, Maros Sefkovic, acknowledged that US LNG could in time be a "game-changer".

But he said the priority for now was to secure gas from the Caspian Sea region, while maintaining supplies of Russian gas through Ukrainian pipelines beyond 2019.

The Kremlin has declared that Trump's political attacks on Nord Stream 2 are "unfair competition."

But Perry said America supports open competition and looked forward to Monday's much-anticipated summit between Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin.

"The president ... thinks Nord Stream 2 is not in the EU's best interest and my bet is he'll be more than happy to tell President Putin that, straight to his face," he said.

THE NEWS: Germany can extradite Puigdemont to Spain for graft, not rebellion: court

Germany can extradite Puigdemont to Spain for graft, not rebellion: court

AFP/File / Tobias SCHWARZ Puigdemont was detained in Germany in late March on a European arrest warrant from Spain for his role in Catalonia's failed independence bid last October

A German court ruled Thursday that deposed Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont may be extradited to Spain, but only for alleged corruption and not on the more serious charge of rebellion.

The decision marks a setback for Madrid, in a case in which Germany found itself at the centre of a politically loaded Spanish dispute.

Puigdemont, 55, was detained in Germany in late March on a European arrest warrant from Spain for his role in Catalonia's failed independence bid last October.

Madrid wants Puigdemont to return to Spain so he can face trial for alleged rebellion, which carries a sentence of up to 25 years.

A court in Schleswig-Holstein had released him on bail on April 6 after finding that he could not be extradited for rebellion -- which is not punishable under German law.

The judges argued that the closest legal equivalent, high treason, did not apply because Puigdemont's actions were not accompanied by violence.

The court reiterated that reasoning in its ruling Thursday, and said Puigdemont would remain free pending final extradition proceedings.

"The alleged actions by the former Catalan government leader do not amount to the German crime of high treason nor the charge of breach of the public peace," the court said.

"The amount of violence required for the charge of high treason was not seen in the altercations in Spain. Breach of the public peace does not apply because Carles Puigdemont was only involved in carrying out the (independence) referendum."

- 'Fight to the end' -

The court noted that European legal practice stipulates that the receiving country -- in this case Spain -- can try the accused only on the charges approved in the extradition order.

This means the Spanish Supreme Court in charge of the case will not be able to try him for rebellion.

Puigdemont hailed the German ruling as a victory.

"The German justice system says that the October 1 referendum was not a rebellion," he said in a tweet.

"Every minute spent in prison by our comrades is a minute of shame and injustice. We will fight to the end and win!"

The court, however, gave the green light for prosecution on misuse of public funds related to the cost of staging the Catalan referendum.

And it rejected Puigdemont's argument that he was at risk of political persecution in Spain.

"It is a far-fetched accusation against the Spanish state as a member of the European Union's community of values and common judicial area," it said.

"The court has unconditional faith that Spanish judicial authorities will respect the requirements of national and international law."

One of Puigdemont's lawyers, Jaume Alonso-Cuevillas, told public broadcaster Catalan TV that they would appeal the decision to extradite to the German Constitutional Court.

"We are convinced that Germany should not play any part in the criminalisation of democratic acts of this kind, and that it should stay out of the highly charged domestic disputes of other states," his German defence team added in a statement.

- Easing tensions -

German prosecutors said they would decide in the coming days whether to approve the transfer of Puigdemont to Spain but described this step as now largely a formality.

Puigdemont is one of 13 separatist leaders accused of rebellion, four of whom are in self-exile in various European countries.

The other nine are in custody in Spain awaiting trial.

With his legal woes preventing him from being re-appointed president of Catalonia, Puigdemont in May anointed a handpicked successor, helping the region to come closer to ending the crisis.

Spain's new government meanwhile has taken its own steps to defuse the conflict.

On Wednesday, the last three separatist leaders held near Madrid over their role in Catalonia's secession bid were transferred to a prison in the region.

Last week, six other leaders had already been transferred ahead of a crunch meeting between Catalonia's separatist president Quim Torra and Spain's new Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

Both pledged to ease tensions despite lingering differences over the region's right to self-determination.

As he received the news about Puigdemont at a NATO summit in Brussels, Sanchez remained discreet.

"We do not comment on court decisions, we respect them... whether in Spain, Belgium, Germany or elsewhere," he said.

THE NEWS: Trump claims victory in NATO spending dispute

Trump claims victory in NATO spending dispute
source: AFP

AFP / Brendan Smialowski US President Donald Trump threw the NATO summit into turmoil when he told allies to "immediately" up their spending by two percent instead of by 2024 as previously agreed

Donald Trump said NATO leaders agreed Thursday to a big boost in defence spending after crisis talks in Brussels, but France's Emmanuel Macron appeared to contradict the US president.

Trump claimed victory after bitterly criticising key allies, notably Germany, for failing to pay their way at one of the most fractious summits in NATO's 70-year history.

He triggered an emergency session on the spending issue, before emerging from the turmoil to say "I believe in NATO" in response to reports that he had threatened to pull out.

"Tremendous progress has been made, everyone's agreed to substantially up their commitment, they're going to up it at levels they've never thought of before," Trump told a press conference before leaving for a visit to Britain.

"It's been amazing to see the level of spirit in that room."

Trump blazed into the summit on Wednesday by demanding that allies reach their commitment to increase spending to two percent of GDP "immediately" -- instead of by 2024 as previously agreed. He then stunned allies by telling them to eventually double the figure to a punishing four percent.

But Macron disputed Trump's claims, saying that the joint statement the leaders had signed went no further than what had previously been agreed, apart from setting out how some countries plan to get there.

"The communique is clear: it reaffirms the commitment to two percent (of GDP)," said Macron, who was photographed smiling and sharing a hug with Trump on Wednesday despite recent tensions between the two.

POOL/AFP / Tatyana ZENKOVICH France's President Emmanuel Macron (R) jokes with US President Donald Trump (C) next to Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as they gather for the NATO summit

In an apparent swipe at Trump, he added: "Sometimes the corridors, comments and tweets take on more importance than what is negotiated, said or endorsed by heads of state."

Macron however added that he thought NATO was now "much stronger" and dismissed reports that Trump had threatened to pull the United States out of NATO if the spending row was not resolved.

- 'Commitment remains very strong' -

Trump himself said that "the US commitment to NATO remains very strong" and withdrawing was "unneccessary".

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg took a more diplomatic approach on the spending row, saying that Trump was having an "impact" while refusing to confirm any increase beyond what was agreed in the statement.

"We understand this US president is very serious about defence spending and this is having an impact," Stoltenberg said. "Since President Trump was in Brussels last spring allies have added 41 billion extra for defence spending."

Despite that, Stoltenberg had been forced to call an extraordinary session of all 29 allies to discuss Trump's demands, in what officials said was one of the first of its kind at a NATO summit for a decade.

Apart from the US, only three NATO countries hit the two-percent target in 2017 -- Britain, Greece and Estonia -- but four more are expected to clear the threshold this year.

The summit came as transatlantic ties are already under strain due to US trade tariffs, along with fears that Trump's summit on Monday with Russian President Vladimir Putin will pull him further from NATO's orbit.

With allies fearing he could strike some sort of deal with NATO's key adversary, Trump said that he saw Putin as a "competitor" but not an "enemy".

Trump insisted that he would bring up key subjects including Syria, although he once again failed to rule out recognising Russia's annexation of Crimea.

AFP / Brendan Smialowski Relations between US President Donald Trump (R) and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have been strained at the NATO summit

He also vowed to raise allegations of Russian meddling in the 2016 US presidential election, amid an ongoing US investigation into whether his campaign colluded with Moscow.

Trump himself accused Germany of being a "captive" of Russia due to a multi-billion-dollar pipeline deal, complaining that Germany and other NATO allies "pay only a fraction" of the cost of defending Europe.

Trump had explicitly linked NATO with a transatlantic trade row by saying the EU shut out US business while expecting America to defend it, singling out Germany for particular criticism.

"Germany just started paying Russia, the country they want protection from, Billions of Dollars for their Energy needs coming out of a new pipeline from Russia. Not acceptable! All NATO Nations must meet their 2% commitment, and that must ultimately go to 4%!" Trump tweeted on Thursday morning before the second day of talks.

- Trump Brexit doubts -

Trump has said next week's meeting with Putin "may be the easiest" part of his European tour.

From Brussels, he flew to Britain where the government is in crisis over Brexit and where tensions with Russia have spiked after London blamed Moscow for the death this month of a British woman from contact with the Novichok nerve agent.

AFP / Gillian HANDYSIDE Defence spending of NATO states

Trump poured fuel on the Brexit fire during his NATO press conference, saying he was not sure that Britons had voted for the Brexit plan presented by Prime Minister Theresa May, which has triggered a British cabinet rebellion.

"The people voted to break it up (Britain's ties with the EU)," Trump said. "So I would imagine that's what they will do, but maybe they will take a little bit of a different route. I don't know that is what they voted for."

May hit back, saying that she was "delivering on the vote of the British people."

THE NEWS: May's Brexit plan could 'kill' US trade deal: Trump

May's Brexit plan could 'kill' US trade deal: Trump
source: AFP

AFP / Tolga AKMEN In extraordinary comments on British politics, Trump also said former foreign minister Boris Johnson, who resigned this week over the Brexit plan and is seen as a potential challenger to May, would make "a great prime minister"

British Prime Minister Theresa May's plan for Brexit would "probably kill" the prospects for a free trade deal with the United States, US President Donald Trump said in an interview for The Sun's Friday edition.

"If they do a deal like that, we would be dealing with the European Union instead of dealing with the UK, so it will probably kill the deal," said Trump, who began a four-day visit to Britain on Thursday.

In extraordinary comments on British politics, Trump also said former foreign minister Boris Johnson, who resigned this week over the Brexit plan and is seen as a potential challenger to May, would make "a great prime minister".

He added that London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who authorised protesters to raise a giant balloon showing a nappy-wearing Trump next to the British parliament on Friday, was doing a "terrible job" in fighting crime.

Trump told the tabloid, Britain's best-selling newspaper, that he would have gone about Brexit in a different way.

"I would have done it much differently. I actually told Theresa May how to do it but she didn't agree, she didn't listen to me. She wanted to go a different route.

"I would actually say that she probably went the opposite way. And that is fine. She should negotiate the best way she knows how. But it is too bad what is going on".

Referring to the plan outlined on Thursday in which Britain would aim to keep strong ties in trading of goods with the EU, he said: "The deal she is striking is a much different deal than the one the people voted on.

"It was not the deal that was in the referendum. I have just been hearing this over the last three days. I know they have had a lot of resignations. So a lot of people don't like it," he said.

May is facing a rebellion by Brexit hardliners over the proposals, including the resignation of Johnson and Brexit minister David Davis.

Asked about Johnson, Trump said: "I was very saddened to see he was leaving government and I hope he goes back in at some point. I think he is a great representative for your country."

"I think he would be a great prime minister. I think he’s got what it takes," he added.

Asked about Khan, a member of the opposition Labour Party, Trump was highly critical of the London mayor.

"Take a look at the terrorism that is taking place. Look at what is going on in London. I think he has done a very bad job on terrorism.

"I think he has done a bad job on crime, if you look, all of the horrible things going on there, with all of the crime that is being brought in," he said.

Referring to planned protests on Friday, Trump added: "I think he has not been hospitable to a government that is very important. Now he might not like the current president, but I represent the United States".

THE NEWS: Stormy Daniels strip club charges dropped, lawyer slams 'setup'

Stormy Daniels strip club charges dropped, lawyer slams 'setup'
source: AFP

AFP/File / EDUARDO MUNOZ ALVAREZ Adult film actress Stormy Daniels -- shown here speaking outside a US federal court in New York with her lawyer Michael Avenatti in April -- was arrested at a strip club in Ohio

Charges were dropped against adult film star Stormy Daniels on Thursday after an Ohio strip club arrest that her lawyer slammed as a "politically motivated" setup against the woman suing President Donald Trump.

Daniels, 39, was apprehended without incident during a performance late Wednesday at the Sirens club in Columbus, Ohio after officers accused her of touching patrons "in a specified anatomical area."

Police approached Daniels, who was topless and wearing a G-string, after she was seen "using her bare breasts to smack the patrons" and "fondling the breasts of the female patrons," according to an incident report published online by a local news outlet.

Daniels allegedly held her breasts against one female detective's face, before "forcing" the face of a male officer into her chest and "smacking his face with her bare breasts."

She performed the same acts on a male officer after "fondling" his buttock and chest.

Ohio law prohibits employees who regularly appear "nude or semi-nude on the premises of a sexually oriented business" from being touched by or touching club-goers, unless they are members of the dancer's immediate family.

Franklin County Sheriff's Office/AFP / Handout Adult film star Stormy Daniels after being arrested while performing at a strip club in Ohio

Another officer in the back of the venue went to get backup before arresting Daniels, who was released on bond.

Her lawyer Michael Avenatti announced Thursday that the charges had been "dismissed in their entirety" and thanked prosecutors for their "professionalism" in a tweet.

The state of Ohio moved to dismiss the case because it did "not have probable cause to proceed on any of the three charges set forth in the complaints," according to scanned court documents that Avenatti posted to social media.

The court papers said "no evidence" was provided that Daniels "appears or has appeared regularly at Sirens."

Avenatti charged earlier that "undercover" officers "asked" for the touching.

"Unbeknownst to her the police set up a sting operation within the strip club," he told MSNBC.

- 'Absurd' -

"During her performance, they asked her if they could place their face in between her breasts while she was performing on stage," he said.

"And she said yes."

Avenatti called the three misdemeanor charges "an absurd use of law enforcement resources."

Daniels later announced that a follow-up performance at the same club Thursday -- initially cancelled -- would go ahead after all.

She vowed to donate "all tips" to the lawyers' fees for two other dancers arrested with her. "Come support the working women of this city," she tweeted.

Daniels, real name Stephanie Clifford, is suing Trump and his former personal lawyer Michael Cohen to nullify a 2016 non-disclosure agreement preventing her from speaking out about an alleged affair she says she had with Trump in 2006.

Cohen paid Daniels $130,000, just days before the 2016 election, in exchange for her silence.

She wants the non-disclosure agreement thrown out on the grounds that it is not valid because Trump never signed it.

Asked if Daniels' arrest could impact her legal wrangling with Cohen, Avenatti said "not at all."

Through White House officials, Trump has denied the affair with Daniels, although Cohen has admitted paying her $130,000 as part of the agreement.

He initially said he used his own money to pay Daniels and was not reimbursed by Trump.

However, the Republican president -- who initially denied knowledge of the payment -- subsequently conceded that Cohen was in fact reimbursed.

THE NEWS: Wheatcroft leads PGA John Deere, defending champ DeChambeau withdraws

Wheatcroft leads PGA John Deere, defending champ DeChambeau withdraws
source: AFP

GETTY/AFP / Stacy Revere Steve Wheatcroft of the US hits his approach shot on the 18th hole during the first round of the John Deere Classic, at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois, on July 12, 2018

World number 22 Bryson DeChambeau finds himself in a race to regain fitness for next week's British Open after injury brought his John Deere Classic title defense to a premature halt on Thursday.

DeChambeau, who won the Jack Nicklaus-hosted Memorial in June, hurt his right shoulder hitting out of the rough at the second hole at TPC Deere Run in Sylvis, Illinois -- where journeyman Steve Wheatcroft was the surprise leader.

The 24-year-old Californian played on, shaking out his arm to relieve the discomfort on the 12th tee before calling it a day after hitting his tee shot at 15.

On-site medical staff told him there was some "instability" in the shoulder joint.

"On two, I hit the shot out of the rough on the right and I just didn't feel great after that," DeChambeau said. "I was feeling great coming into today."

He was off to consult a doctor, still hoping he could be ready to tackle Carnoustie in the third major of the year next week.

GETTY/AFP / Stacy Revere Michael Kim of the US hits his tee shot on the 15th hole during the first round of the John Deere Classic, at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois, on July 12, 2018

"If I can get three or four days of good rest in, when I get there Monday night I'll evaluate it and see how I feel," he said.

Despite his career-best round of nine-under par 62, Wheatcroft wasn't allowing himself to think about a trip to Carnoustie.

Asked if he had his passport with him, just in case he hangs on for a first US PGA Tour title that would earn him a late ticket to the Open Championship, Wheatcroft said he did -- but only because he always travels with it.

In the midst of a tough season, he wasn't getting ahead of himself.

"It's been a brutal year, to be honest with you," said Wheatcroft, the 40-year-old, ranked 927th in the world.

"It's probably the worst year I've had so far, but I don't feel like I'm playing the worst golf of my career. I actually feel like I'm playing some good golf, I'm just not getting the results out of it.

"You know, I feel like it's close -- 62 didn't surprise me."

Wheatcroft reeled off six straight birdies to finish his round. He was one stroke in front of fellow American Michael Kim.

Canadian Nick Taylor, Argentina's Andres Romero and Americans Johnson Wagner and Joel Dahmen shared third on 64.

Wheatcroft took full advantage of ideal morning scoring conditions. With crisp iron play he left himself birdie putts of six feet or less at holes 13, 14 and 15 to key his finishing burst.

He said a new driver head, which he had only tried out on the driving range, was a big help as he found 12 of 14 fairways.

After storming home, Wheatcroft said: "I wanted to just go to the first tee and start the second round."

THE NEWS: J&J ordered to pay $4.69 bn damages in talc cancer case

J&J ordered to pay $4.69 bn damages in talc cancer case
source: AFP

AFP/File / CHARLY TRIBALLEAU Several thousand lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson in connection with this matter

US pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson was Thursday ordered to pay out $4.69 billion in damages in a lawsuit representing 22 women and their families who alleged a talc sold by the company contained asbestos and caused them to suffer cancer.

It is the latest twist in a matter that has seen several thousand lawsuits filed against J&J.

According to the victims' lawyer, Mark Lanier, a jury composed of six men and six women in St Louis, Missouri, ruled in favor of the women after a six-week trial and eight hours of deliberation. The damages include $550 million in compensation and over $4.1 billion in punitive damages.

The plaintiffs said using the talc for personal hygiene had caused ovarian cancer.

"For over 40 years, Johnson & Johnson has covered up the evidence of asbestos in their products," Lanier said in a statement.

"We hope this verdict will get the attention of the J&J board and that it will lead them to better inform the medical community and the public about the connection between asbestos, talc, and ovarian cancer," he said, calling for talc to be pulled from the market.

J&J said it was "deeply disappointed in the verdict."

In a statement, it described the trial as "a fundamentally unfair process that allowed plaintiffs to present a group of 22 women, most of whom had no connection to Missouri, in a single case all alleging that they developed ovarian cancer."

"The result of the verdict, which awarded the exact same amounts to all plaintiffs irrespective of their individual facts, and differences in applicable law, reflects that the evidence in the case was simply overwhelmed by the prejudice of this type of proceeding."

The company said its talc does not contain asbestos or cause ovarian cancer, and vowed it would "pursue all available appellate remedies."

Several similar trials have already taken place, with a Los Angeles appeals court last October dismissing a $417 million verdict against J&J, saying the complainant's arguments were insufficient and vague.

THE NEWS: Army raises flag in Daraa, cradle of Syria revolt

Army raises flag in Daraa, cradle of Syria revolt
source: AFP

AFP / Mohamad ABAZEED The Syrian national flag flies in the midst of damaged buildings in Daraa-al-Balad, an opposition-held part of the southern city of Daraa, on July 12, 2018

Syria's army entered rebel-held parts of Daraa city on Thursday, state media said, raising the national flag in the cradle of the uprising that sparked the country's seven-year war.

After securing Damascus in May, President Bashar al-Assad is determined to oust rebels from a key southern region bordering Jordan and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

A ceasefire announced last week stemmed nearly three weeks of regime bombardment on the southern province of Daraa, including the symbolic provincial capital of the same name.

Until then, the northern half of Daraa city was in regime hands, while the opposition held out in its southern neighbourhoods including Daraa al-Balad.

"Syrian army units enter Daraa al-Balad and raise the national flag in the main square," the official news agency SANA reported on Thursday afternoon.

Late Wednesday, it had said the regime and rebels had reached a deal for opposition fighters to hand over their heavy weapons in opposition-held parts of the city.

On Thursday, an AFP correspondent in Daraa al-Balad saw a convoy of Russian military police and regime officers enter the city with journalists to raise the flag.

But the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said the flag raising on Thursday was merely "symbolic".

Measures to implement the so-called reconciliation deal for rebel-held parts of the city had not yet been implemented, it said.

"The rebels are still inside Daraa city," Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said, but had not yet handed over their heavy weapons and there were no signs of any evacuations.

- 'Full control'? -

Under the deal, "those (rebels) who want to settle their status with the regime will hand over their heavy weapons, keep their light arms and remain in the city", he said.

AFP / Mohamad YUSUF A bus stops at a checkpoint as displaced Syrians from the Daraa province come back to their hometown in Bosra, southwestern Syria, on July 11, 2018

"Those who refuse the deal will head out towards the north of Syria."

The reconciliation deal for Daraa city is the latest in a string of such agreements that have seen the Russia-backed regime retake large parts of the country since 2015.

They usually follow blistering military campaigns and sometimes stifling sieges that effectively force the rebels into surrendering.

Previous such deals have seen thousands of rebels bused up to areas still under opposition control in the north of the country.

Activist Omar al-Hariri said the Russian military and regime troops had exited Daraa city on Thursday after raising the flag.

"We expect those against the so-called reconciliation to be evacuated in the next few days," said the activist inside the city.

"Only after that will the regime enter completely and officially, and start inspections, allowing us to say the city is under its full control."

The regime fully regaining its rule over Daraa city will be a hugely symbolic blow to the opposition.

In 2011, teenagers were arrested for scrawling anti-Assad slogans on the walls of a school in the poverty-stricken city, sparking mass protests against the government.

Several of those teenagers picked up arms after the uprising developed into a full-fledged conflict that has since killed more than 350,000 people and displaced millions.

- 'No fight left' -

The regime now controls more than 80 percent of Daraa province, but opposition fighters still retain control of areas in its west.

Analyst Nick Heras said the flag fluttering above rebel-held areas in Daraa city on Thursday intended to demoralise rebels still resisting a regime takeover in other parts of the province.

"Daraa was supposed to be a stronghold of the revolution, fighting against Assad to the bitter end," he said.

But "now his regime can send images out to the world that the city has no fight left," said the analyst at the Center for a New American Strategy.

More than 160 civilians have been killed since the regime launched its bombing campaign on Daraa province on June 19, the Observatory says.

Over 320,000 people fled their homes during the campaign, the United Nations said, though many have returned since the ceasefire was announced Friday.

Syria's war has grown in complexity since 2011, drawing in world powers and involving jihadists.

The ceasefire deal for Daraa excludes jihadists linked to the Islamic State group who control a small corner of the province bordering both Jordan and the occupied Golan Heights.

AFP / Mohamad YUSUF Displaced Syrians from the Daraa province come back to their hometown in Bosra, southwestern Syria, on July 11, 2018

Overnight, fighters of the IS affiliate seized the village of Heet east of that pocket from rebels who had agreed to a regime takeover, the Observatory said.

To the west of Daraa, the regime also wants to retake control of Quneitra province bordering the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

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