A publication of the Century Group. Third quarter 2013.
IMPERIAL
SWAMPDRILLING RIGCONTRACTED TO
CESLCESL
Ever heard of
“WORLD“WORLD
DAY”DAY”?MOSQUITOMOSQUITO
CG ENSURES
BATAN FLOW STATION
MEETS WORLD STANDARD
CHAIRMAN - EDITORIAL BOARD
Ken Etete
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
TK Etete
ADVISORS
Nadou Amri
EDITOR
Olutunde Fadairo
ASSITANT EDITORS
Lily Okpapi
Oludayo Olubusayo
CONTRIBUTORS
Kunle AjayiYomi AdeoyeRalph AdakaAdetoro Oluwabunmi
PHOTOGRAPHY
Olazi BurutoluAliu Adewunmi Ogunbadejo
CENTURY POST
Miebi Ifedigbo
Andy Eyre
EDITORIAL TEAM
EDITOR’S NOTE
Dear colleagues,
It's September already, and once again, another edition of the Century Post is out to grace the Nelson Mandela (or is it the Beyonce – wink wink) wallpaper on your desk top.
This edition features another addition to Century Group's list of accolades, after the successful testing of the OML 42 flow station oil export pumps. The CE has an interesting insight into the significance of creativity and innovation in the world of business.Ever wondered what “new projects” the New Projects department is working on? Well wonder no more, as we have a feature on them.
I am sure you are all familiar with World Malaria Day; but World Mosquito Day? That's a first for me.
Finally, and on a lighter, livelier note, amongst our many features and articles, get an exclusive look at pictures from the CE's 40th birthday bash and the launch of The Mouse Pad – Lekki's latest hang out zone and sports bar.
Happy reading.
Olutunde.
CENTURY POST
FROM THE CE’S DESK
By: Ken Etete
Andrew Nachison once said that “The real
disruptors of the next decade won't be
companies, but people - creative entrepreneurs,
opportunists who are transforming the global
economy; professionals scattered around the
globe, connecting and working from anywhere
to build businesses and solve problems
everywhere''.
Creativity and radical approach to business has
become a necessity. This global pursuit for
innovation and creativity is affecting how
companies recruit. Previously, the yardsticks
were personality, competencies and character,
but in the 21st Century, innovative thinking is
priceless. This innovative disposition is not just a
function of background or academics, but of
paradigms and worldview.
Think of great countries today that are making
efforts to build a culture where students can think creatively given embedded innovative
thinking in curricula and instructional system designs. By this, everyone is being
encouraged to tap into their creative potentials, understanding that creativity, the most
important human resource of all is not for a chosen few. Without creativity, there would be
no progress. Education should not necessarily be about conforming to societal
expectations, but reforming society and driving the industry through innovation. Education
ought to be about progressive risk-taking. Every student must learn that they have the right
to be wrong; the right to question everything they are told. When they find themselves in
the workplace they will bring more value to the system because their cognitive experiences
have been broadened and deepened by unending 'quest' and innovative-thinking.
We also need to foster a culture of creativity in the workplace. We need to create a culture
that supports creative-thinking because much of the future is dependent on it and it is the
only way to transform the old and build businesses that truly solve problems and add value
to society.
''Education's purpose is to replace an empty mind with an open one''(Malcolm Forbes)
THE NEED FOR
CREATIVITY
It is often said that not all that glitters is gold, but truly not all
gold glitters. The real genius of a parent is not the one who
spots success in an obedient child, but the one who finds
something redemptive in the seeming stubborn child and
nurtures him or her to a place of success. Likewise, a thriving
society is not about spotting leadership in already successful
people, but finding and nurturing the hidden and redeemable
qualities in its renegades – that gold that may not be glittering.
It is human nature to see greatness in the school prefect, and
not in the rebel who is always breaking the rules. We see
leadership in the boardroom; we appreciate same in politics
and in military establishments, but we often fail to see
leadership in the inmates behind the prison walls of Maximum
Kirikiri, in the thugs under Obalende Bridge, in the underworld
of gunmen and 'yahoo' boys, and in the militants in the creeks
and the desert sands of the Sahara who may all be gifted
leaders but never became ostensible ones. Society loses
leaders among its 'renegade' who have become trapped in
societal imbalances and adopted a lifestyle devoid of
character, compassion and the moral courage to be bigger
than who and what they have, unfortunately, become. There is
no doubt that some misfits belong behind bars, but quite
frankly, there are also some 'potential leaders' currently behind
bars or ostracised who are victims of either a warped system of
values or of cultural discriminations. They are not criminals, but
just 'different' and in need of embracement and integration at
the communal and higher social levels. Without the needed
social intervention, whatever leadership qualities they may
possess remain latent, undiscovered, and undeveloped for
their own benefit and that of their communities. Then, there is
yet a different group which sometimes suffers exclusivity for its
misunderstood ways - radical thinkers. They tend to think and
act weird; see things 'abnormally' and, therefore, can't fit into
'the norm'. Suffused in this group is often a wealth of creativity
and innovative-thinking crying for the opportunity to be
discovered or heard. But, the so called 'weird' in many parts of
Africa today have no place in the society.
Africa is persistently a backward continent because we
preserve a culture that suppresses creativity; we embrace a
tradition that tags radicals 'rebels' and give them no room for
expression. Before long, the 'weird' or 'radical' is either
compelled to shape into the norm or become socially
ostracized for good. We generally shun diversity and expect
conformity even to that which has become obsolete. We are
quick to blind-copy and duplicate and extremely lazy to
innovate the duplicate and make it outstanding. We tag kids
who are not afraid to be wrong as stubborn, but often forget
NOT ALL
GLITTERS
CENTURY POST
that 'stubborn streak' is the stuff many geniuses are made of.
Undoubtedly, some societal norms, particularly those that
tend to regulate thoughts and values are needed for the good
of humankind, but innovative-thinking must be encouraged in
this part of the world as most revolutionary products or status
quo have emerged outside the norm.
Much of the world's defining moments have been driven by
people who are 'different' or 'unique'. Radicals can be a gift to
mankind, they see the world differently, they are not always
right, but they keep people on their toes. Their different views
often improve the quality of an idea. Behind every movement
that ushered in a revolution was a radical who was never afraid
to upset the status quo. Likewise, creativity is about daring to
be different; to step out of the 'usual' or to bring a completely
new and fresh perspective to a situation.
Malcolm Gladwell's Outlier, describes the enormous success
creative thinkers have achieved globally. Bill Gates, one of the
most successful entrepreneurs of our time and The Beatles,
one of the most successful musical groups in human history
tapped into the opportunities offered by creativity for their
renowned successes. Malcolm's catalogue of the many
innovative products in the markets today, particularly
technology and kitchen wares stems from dogged 'out-of-
the-box' thinking. When 'creativity' meets 'opportunity', he
emphasizes in Outlier, the result can indeed by phenomenal.
In Nigeria as in many other African countries, our problem is
not one of lack of talent, intelligence or ideas, but the absence
of an enabling environment to nurture creative instincts and
innovative quests, as well as the reverence for quick gains.
We're impatient about staying with innovative ideas and
activities whose fruits do tend to take time to mature. Our
society needs to become enabling and celebratory of
creativity; of leadership in the big and small. Children and
youths on our streets who are not in education or employment
for one reason or another need access and the opportunities
to explore their creative potentials for their self-development
and that of the larger community. We must avoid muzzling
radical thinkers and genuinely embrace the freedom to be and
explore that which is different. Our future depends on those
who think differently. After all, the gold that may thrust us into
that new world of greatness just may be the one that doesn't
glitter.
By: Ken Etete
FROM THE CE’S DESK
COMPANY NEWS
Leadership Series Phase 2
CENTURY POST
The first series of the Century Group Leadership Series (CGLS) was concluded in August 2013. A highlight of
the first series was the visit by Jakko Maki-Petaja, a celebrated mind on leadership from Finland, who gave a
talk on Corporate Leadership. At the end of the first phase, the programme was evaluated and the need for
a follow up session was agreed. The consensus was that some changes should be made to the second
phase of the series to make it much more interactive and applicable to the professional and personal lives
of CG employees.
For the second series, therefore, departments have been grouped together to foster bonding and seamless
exchange of ideas. The second phase of the programme, has been earmarked to start on the 2nd and 16th
of September in Lagos and Port Harcourt respectively.
The grouping of departments, resulted in the formation of seven groups that will tackle seven leadership
topics in relation to essential life skills such as decision making, loyalty and productivity to mention a few.
As the business world is taking IQ (Intelligence Quotient) as a given and is shifting its focus on EQ
(Emotional Quotient), CG will not be left behind in equipping staff with the necessary skills to be the best in
every endeavour. This is even more so as Century Group is growing fast and evolving too and has long
recognised that soft skills are just as important as technical skills for sustaining the growth and
development envisioned for it as an emerging international company.
You are welcome to the phase two of the Century Group Leadership Series.
By: Olutunde Fadairo
COVER STORY
Successful Factory Acceptance Testing of the Batan (OML-42)Flow Station Oil Export Pumps:
CENTURY POST
In February 2012 Century Energy Services was successful in being awarded NPDC operations and maintenance contract for the newly
acquired OML-42 oil and gas block. The immediate effect was for CESL to mobilize an expert team of O&M engineers to safely
takeover the Batan oil export facility, plus provide additional support capability at the various interconnecting flow stations, namely:
Egwa, Jones Creek, Odidi-1 and Odidi (CPF) gas export processing facility. Part of this initial scope was for CESL to procure and install
seven high speed motor- driven oil export pump
skids to increase the present total oil production
within the node from 30kbpd to 140+kbpd and
also to relocate the existing gas engine-driven pump
equipment for additional stand-by duty.
CESL worked in conjunction with the NPDC engineering
t e a m s o n v a r i o u s equipment solutions for
the OML-42 facilities and CESL eventually awarded
Sulzer Pumps UK the manufacturing contract to
s u p p l y s e v e n M S D - 4x8x10 .5B 7 /11s tage
20kbpd pump casings driven by 3.3KV/450KW,
W E G M o t o r u n i t s , associated skid mounted
instrument devices and termination points. Sulzer
Pumps was awarded this very important contract
due to its proven industry product range, foot print,
p i p e c o n f i g u r a t i o n , p e r f o r m a n c e
enhancement, spare part interchangeability, delivery
time and local content support capability. The
procurement value for the OEM pumps alone is close
to seven million dollars and is made up of pre-agreed milestone deliverables. The pumps once installed at the various locations will be
powered by pontoon mounted 3 x 1MW, CAT-3516 Gas engine generator units which will be moored adjacent to the existing flow
station facilities. The team is presently reviewing installation, controls system integration and safe concurrent operational strategy.
In late July 2013 the CESL & NPDC/JV team were officially invited to visit Sulzer's UK (Leeds) manufacturing facility to meet with the
OEM engineering teams and also witness the 1st factory acceptance test of two recently completed oil export pump skids which are
presently destined for installation at Batan. The
tests were conducted over a fixed three day period due
to test stand availability and CESL,NPDC/JV teams were
able to successfully witness va r ious pe r fo rmance
p a r a m e t e r s , m a k e comment to the skid layout,
cable and instrumentation installations, as well as
discuss and expedite the r e m a i n i n g p u m p
m a n u f a c t u r i n g a n d estimated delivery dates in
line with the overall OML- 42 project deliverables and
accelerated production goals. The UK event was
sponsored by the CESL and was deemed a great
success by the main client and project stakeholders.
The first pumps are due to be shipped to Nigeria in
September followed by a d d i t i o n a l f a c t o r y
acceptance testing at the end of the year.
Left-right: Andrew Iyawa (Sulzer), Andy Eyre (CG), Peter Ugbor (JV-Neconde),
Wilson Anabrada (NPDC), Sylvester Ebede (NPDC), Yomi Adeoye (CG) & Richard Clay (Sulzer)
By: Andy Eyre
Sulzer Engineer Nigel Mattock and Yomi Adeoye of CG
HSE
Win the war against malaria: use Insecticide Treated Nets.By: T.K. Etete
Malaria and HIV
Malaria and HIV: Is there a link? Yes. Even though mosquitoes do
not transmit the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), malaria
still indirectly increases the risk of HIV. Malaria contributes to a
temporary increase in viral load among HIV-infected people
which may worsen the clinical disease, increase mother-to child
transmission, and augment transmission in adults. People living
with HIV/AIDS are at an increased risk of clinical malaria, severe
illness, hospitalization, and death. (http://MalariaFactSheet)
What can you do?
It is well known that poverty causes more “malaria related deaths”
than malaria itself. In our society, poverty is reflected in
deplorable living conditions, poor hygiene and malnutrition,
even in adults. Malnutrition weakens the body's immune system
to sickness and disease, which makes the poor highly vulnerable
to infection.
As cleaning the environment and preventing stagnant water in
our neighbourhoods is not an easy task to achieve, many
methods of preventing mosquito bite and killing mosquitoes
have been offered, including the use of insecticide, incense and
ointment applied to the body. These have been criticized for their
environmental hazards and unhealthy effects on humans. But,
more importantly, their efficacy and affordability to the mid and
lower strata of society in particular have made these methods
ineffective. This is why a more efficient and affordable method is
now being strongly propagated world-wide – the use of
Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs).
''Mosquito net'', as popularly called, is not a new invention. Its
history goes as far back as the 18th century. What is different
today is that there are three main types of mosquito nets - the
untreated and the ITN which also now comprises of the Long-
Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs). The treated net helps to 'repel,
disable and kill the mosquitoes that come in contact with it.' This
reduces the tendency for human contact with mosquitoes. In
addition, ITNs, that is the LLINs have been developed to be
stronger and last much longer than untreated nets. To maintain
their full protective effect, LLINs can be washed up to twenty
times, which amounts to about 3 years of regular use. (WHO)
The use of ITNs remains the most cost-effective intervention
against malaria till date. ITNs 'have been shown to have reduced
the incidence of uncomplicated malarial episodes by 50%',
making protective efficacy significantly higher than that of
untreated nets. (WHO) ITNs are highly affordable. Each costs
about N1, 500 (One Thousand Five Hundred Naira) or a little less
at the open markets and Super markets.
ITNs are very versatile. They can be used in tents and hammocks
and people who normally sleep on mats on the floor can use
them too. But, the world's greatest challenge remains low ITN
usage even when ownership may be high. In other words, many
people who buy or have been given ITNs free of charge still don't
use them. The UN and WHO say that they're yet to achieve usage
target and Nigeria can push usage numbers significantly higher if
we use or encourage friends and relatives in our communities
who have no alternatives to use ITNs. In a country with an
abysmal supply of electricity and cost of running a generator very
high, ITNs are not just for the 'poor'. During the cool, dry weather
when we can do without a
fan or air conditioner, but
want to keep our windows
open, we can still enjoy the
b reeze and p ro tec t
ourselves with ITNs.
Our health and wellbeing
is in our hands. Malaria is
preventable. Let's use
ITNs or encourage others
to do so; let's stay healthy
and well and reduce
medical bills. ITNs can
significantly improve our
quality of life.
CENTURY POST
World Mosquito Day, observed annually on 20 August, is a commemoration of British
doctor, Sir Ronald Ross's discovery in 1897 that female mosquitoes transmit malaria
between humans.
Ross is responsible for the annual observance, having declared shortly after his
discovery that the day should be known as World Mosquito Day in the future.
Shocking statistics show the importance of marking World Mosquito Day. In a sub-
Saharan country like Nigeria, the malaria scourge is becoming an epidemic. The World
Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that in 2010 there were 219 million cases of
malaria resulting in 660,000 deaths, equivalent to roughly 2000 deaths every day. (WHO)
Malaria is a major public health problem in Nigeria where it accounts for more cases of
death than in any other country in the world. Ninety-seven percent of Nigeria's
population is at risk of getting infected by malaria. The remaining 3% of the population
lives in the malaria free highlands. There are an estimated 100 million malaria cases with
over 300,000 deaths per year in Nigeria. This compares with 215,000 deaths per year in
Nigeria from HIV/AIDS. Malaria contributes to an estimated 11% of maternal mortality.
(http://MalariaFactSheet)
New Projects And Strategy Unit
CENTURY POST
Purpose:• The New Projects and Strategy (NPS) unit was formed as a result of
increasing business areas for Century Group.
• NPS mandate was to interface with prospective companies and
government agencies/organisations interested in developing
partnerships or projects with CG
• The mandate also includes developing identified projects up to
implementation phase before handing over to appropriate technical
or business departments within the organisation.
• In 2010 , the MD/CEO created this new unit and appointed Jessica
Ine to head the NPS. The Unit has experienced astronomical growth
and developed into 3 Key areas of new business with a strong zeal to
venture into more profitable and aligned businesses.
• The three (3) key new business area are:
l OCTG supplies
l Trading - Crude, PMS, DPK, LPFo
l Wreck Removal Project
OCTG Supply
• OCTG (oil Country Tubular Goods) is a generic name for the various
drilling pipes being used in oil exploration and production operations
• CESL in partnership with Metal One, UK has in the last two years
executed supply contracts in excess of USD11million.
• NBS is currently working on expanding the clientele base of the
OCTG supply business to include most of the IOCs and NOCs
operating in the country.
Trading in petroleum products & Crude Oil
• The Unit is developing an Oil Trading arm for the group and has
done quite well in this regard in the last 12 months. Within this period;
• The Unit secured a 30,000 barrels crude oil term contract for CESL in
partnership with PTT Public Company Limited (the national oil
company of Thailand) from the NNPC in 2012. The Unit has
successfully loaded about 4 million barrels of crude oil under this
contract.
• The Unit has also applied for the 2013/2014 crude term contract and
we are very hopeful of securing a Crude Term Contract for CESL.
• Futhermore, the unit is currently executing a two years contract for
the lifting of OSO gas for export and a one year contract for domestic
gas (LPG). The contracts were secured from NNPC
• The Unit also lift and trade in other petroleum products such as
LPFO, PMS, AGO and DPK. It recently lifted 50,000mt of Fuel from the
Port Harcourt refinery for export.
Wreck Removal
• Wreck removal is one of the key business activities undertaken by
the NPS. The objective is to ensure free and safe navigational
waterways in the country in collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime
Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
• The flagship project executed under the wreck removal projects was
the salvage of the largest floating dock in Nigeria with an LOA of
141m, that was sunk at the Nigerian Naval Engineering College, Jetty,
Sapele.
• The project was successfully executed with 100% Nigerian
personnel and with Zero LTI.
• The success of the Sapele operation has opened doors for wreck
removal projects including the MT. Zenon Conquest contract and a
possible global concession contract for removal of wrecks from the
Nigerian waterways.
Other Business prospects
The unit is currently prospecting other business opportunities in the
area of petroleum refinery project, power project, E&P projects etc.
Staff strength
The Unit currently has five (5) staff led by Mrs. Jessica Ine, who is the
head of the unit. other team members include Raphael Adaka
(Deputizing), Helen Fajimi, Samuel Bassey, Jake Ugo and Hilda Subi
Century Energy Services Limited was
among the top companies in the maritime
sector in Africa who participated in the
IBC's Offshore Support Vessels Africa 2013
conference, which held from June 19 to20,
2013 at Novotel, Accra City Centre, Ghana.
The aim of the Global OSV Conference was
to bring together top stakeholders from
the oil & gas industry, and to focus on
market opportunities and case studies on
OSV operations in Africa. Over the years,
the West Africa sub-region has grown to
become the world's third largest and
busiest area for new offshore oil and gas
developments. With over 300 OSVs
deployed in the region, the market for
support services is poised to witness even
more growth in the coming years.
The Chief Executive of Century Group, Mr
Ken Etete, was among the speakers at the
event. He was represented by Kunle Ajayi,
Head of Marine Services Department.
Kunle, while speaking at the conference,
gave a general overview of the OSV
Market in Nigeria, highlighting the challenges and the immense
opportunities in the sector, and the significant role that Century
Energy will be playing in the near future.
Among other speakers at the conference were: Edgar Espinosa,
Vice President, Sales & Business Development – Africa, Bumi
Armada; George R. Horsington, President (Business Development),
Jaya Holdings; Jerry Tromans, Chief Financial Officer, Petro Services
Congo and Leong Seng, Executive Director, Nam Cheong.
Also at the conference were Capt Rohit Chadha, Chibuike Ugwuibe
and Teinane Okpokiti.
CESL at the Offshore SupportVessels Africa 2013 conference,Ghana
DEPARTMENTAL SHARE
By: Ralph Adaka
By: Kunle Ajayi
Kunle Ajayi
Kunle Ajayi & Rohit Chadha
CESL has engaged a 3000 horse power swamp drilling rig for a
period of three years. The Swamp drilling rig from Imperial
swamp rig is owned by Depthwise Nigeria Ltd. The project
plan for the rig utilization within the next three years includes:
mobilization of the rig to the Atala field for re-entry operations
on OML 40 and OML 42 on behalf of NPDC, Conoil drilling
campaign and other interested Exploration and Production
companies.
Imperial Swamp Drilling Rig contracted to CESL
CESL Gears Up For OperationsAnd Maintenance of Odidi andJones Creek Flow Station InOML 42.CESL is presently gearing up for the operation and
maintenance of Odidi and Jones Creek flow stations located in
OML 42. OML 42 is the same field that has the Batan
flowstation which CG has been operating for over a year now.
The Odidi facility includes a flow station and a center
processing facility with a 30,000bpd capacity, while Jones creek
has a production capacity of 150,000bpd. The project plan
includes moving into Odidi and Jones Creek beginning with
the integrity and functionality test,(which has just been
completed) leading to revamp workscope, then daily
operation and maintenance of both flow stations.
CENTURY POST
Opuama Flow Station Operations & Maintenance Update
News!
CESL is concluding activities towards the operation and maintenance of Opuama flowstation , located in OML 42, owned by
NPDC and Elcrest. CESL will be involved in various stages of development projects. An integrity and functionality test has
been concluded to determine
working conditions of current
equipment, this will lead to the
revamp and repairs of the facility,
p a v i n g t h e w a y f o r d a i l y
maintenance and operations
activities. In between, drilling
activities will be ongoing to increase
production on the field, as well as
procurement and supply chain
management, trainings, inspections,
production optimization and
instrumentation. The CESL team
welcomes this as a boost to the
project portfolio.
DEPARTMENTAL SHARE
By: Yomi Adeoye
Imperial Swamp Drilling Rig
Opuama flow station OML 42
MY EXPERIENCE AT CESLhe best experience in life usually happens when you work in an environment your heart has Talways wished and prayed for.
Speaking as an intern at CESL, I have enjoyed every second at CESL. My experience so far has been
wonderful and full of mind-blowing exposures {is it reading of TENDERS I want to talk about or the
knowledge I've gained on how to prepare transmittals for invoices that has to be verified. Or, is it
about daily extractions of cogent information from newspapers for the development of our work
etc.} to mention but a few.
At CESL, there's no discrimination. There is cordiality among the staff, and most especially, in the
MARINE DEPARTMENT where I served as an intern we work in unity and as a team. They keep me
on track and carry me along with everything that has to be done.
In conclusion, my experience has been a good one career-wise and in other spheres of life.
CENTURY POST
By: Adetoro Oluwabunmi
AUGUST MEETING By: Miebi Ifedigbo
CENTURY LIFE
geared towards initiating self-help rural
community development efforts. The gatherings
provide a forum for the women to deliberate on
issues that affect them commonly as a community
and bring up suggestions/ ideas on how to tackle
them for the advancement of the entire
community in general.
This home grown community development effort
championed by the women presents a classic
model for grass-root development, one that
should present viable lessons for the rest of the
world. The empowerment of women and their
active participation in the stimulation of
communal growth, fighting of poverty amongst
their kind, and undertaking of well thought out projects, as
seen in the August Meeting phenomenon, is key to the
attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
It also captures succinctly, the idea of 'giving back', as the
more successful women based in the cities make
considerable inputs for the socio-economic development of
their towns while also reversing to some extent the losses of
rural-urban migration.
Now you know. We hope we've enriched your knowledge of
the culture and practices of the people of Nigeria. Also
remember to give back in your own little way and to be an
“enabler”, because in the end Century Group is all about
enabling people.
t is August again and in Nigeria, women from the ISoutheastern parts of the country are gearing up for one
particular annual ritual, the August Meeting. You might have
heard this term on the TV, in a home movie or come across it in
the papers and you might have been wondering, just like me,
what it is really about. I will attempt here a brief description.
The month of August every year witnesses a massive
homecoming of Igbo women from different towns and cities
across the world, to their matrimonial home towns, where
they reunite with their rural-based relatives for what is now
popularly known as the “August Meeting.”
Participation is the exclusive reserve of married women from
the community and it is mandatory for everyone to attend.
Besides the overwhelming feeling of joy of re-union that the
meeting brings, these annual gatherings are specifically
Igbo women at August Meeting
CENTURY LIFE
come together to learn, grow and
build better business. Most of us
are usually so busy that the
thought of racking your brain to
pick the perfect hairstyle is like
making a list of your ideal man –
just too many options.
Hairdos involving heaps of gel and
hair gloss that makes the hair
appear stiff is a no-no. Professional
shoulder-length hairstyles are best
gathered in a ponytail or pulled
into an “up-do” whether they are worn sleek or curly, open or
braided, parted or not. Hair falling onto the face and impeding eye-
to-eye contact should be avoided by simply styling to the side or
holding it in place with a pin. Fringes or bangs is also a smart
hairstyle but must be kept neat and tidy. We don't want our bosses
scolding us about our hair choices because many associate a
disorganized appearance with sloppy work ethic.
Avoid carrying a “do” for too long to the point where it is no longer
fragrant and dandruff falls from it onto your shoulders like “garri”.
You can have a bad-hair day once in a while but when it becomes
the norm, then it is totally unacceptable.
Choose the “do” that's right for you
Choose the hairstyle that suits your face. What looks fabulous on a
round face like Omotola Jolade's won't look as wonderful on a
heart-shaped face like Tonto Dikeh's.
· The oval shaped face is so proportional; this face shape looks good
with about any hair style.
· The round face looks great with longer hair that lengthens the
face. Side swept bangs can also add length to a round face.
· The square face needs height on top and narrowness at the sides.
Deep side parts, texture, and soft bangs help balance the square
face shape. Longer length looks great with more angular and
powerful jawline. This face shape should avoid straight lines.
· The heart face shape is characterized by a wider forehead and
narrower chin. Adding side swept bangs to this style helps disguise
the width of the forehead and keeping the style fuller around the
jaw helps to add weight to the narrower chin.
We all have our ''go-to'' hair. Ponytail or bangs does the magic for
me and is a timeless style smart enough for today's environment. If
your hair is too short to put in extensions, listen to that inner voice
or to your hairdresser and don't do it.
Rock the short hair, it shows confidence! Come to think of it, quite
often, even the smallest modifications have appealing effects.
Until next time, remember, keep doing the right “do”.
Reference: http://www.maximumfx.com/2012/12/the-4-basic-face-
shapes/
CENTURY POST
ometime ago after work, I saw a young lady walking past the Soffice and her shoes caught my attention. I was busy admiring
the pair she had on and I decided to see how she combined her
attire to match such lovely shoes and I sure wasn't disappointed.
Then my eyes went up to see the face and then......it happened. Oh
boy! The “do”… I mean her hair (I'm still trying to get the perfect
picture so I can describe it properly). Her hair was everywhere.
At first, I thought “I really don't think she's coming from the office”.
Then, I saw her work ID and I just couldn't fathom how a very dark
skinned girl wearing a blond (emphasis on blond) Diana Ross' hair
style was allowed to walk past office security in the first place.
I am not saying women or even men shouldn't change or
experiment with hairstyles but at least, you should know which
hairstyle suits you and your work environment. Women have come
a long way in the corporate world and the trick is to look good, but
professional, not showing up at work looking like you just stepped
off P-Square's tour bus. Women usually make one of two mistakes
when styling their hair for work. They either look too risky by doing
too much, or they look too religious by doing too little.
Finding the right balance of femininity and professionalism when
you choose your “work do” is paramount. A hairstyle can change
the entire look of a lady, but for some working women, it's not that
easy. Early in the morning, you hardly have time to get ready for
work. Some with long hair will casually do the “I needed to be at
work 20 minutes ago, and I just woke up” hair. But, I'll advise that if
you do not have any hair choice in mind, a newly permed hair is the
best “to-do hair”.
Wear them perfectly and your co-workers won't ever gossip about
your bad hair choice. With a little twist here, a hair accessory there, a
clipped up weave or perfectly rolled up bun, you'll walk out the door
with confidence from Monday through Friday no matter what hair
length or texture you have. This also doesn't mean that because the
weave/hair extension is affordable, you'll opt for unnatural hair
colours or flamboyant hair jewelry that will cover half your hair,
unless you work as a moderator for “extreme fashion show”.
The office is a magical place. It's where all sorts of interesting people
Don't let your “do” do you!By: Olubusayo Oludayo
CENTURY LIFE
iZon – The Sensational Ijaw singing duo.
CENTURY POST
he Century Group (CG) is an employer of about one
thousand, two hundred and fifty people. It is Ttherefore no surprise, that it will be a pool of diverse
talents.
One of such talents is one half of the Ijaw duo singing
sensation - iZon. His name is James Useghan and alongside
his brother and partner – Michael, has been in the industry
for over twelve years, with three albums under their belt.
Their highly anticipated single – “Iworiwo” is set for release
later this year as the first single from iZon's yet to be
completed fourth album.
James is a member of the Human Resources department
and has been joggling his music career with his studies and
now his job for years. Miebi Ifedigbo of the Century Post
(CP) caught up with James to answer a few questions.
CP: What does Han-Izon mean and what is the story
behind the group?
James: iZon is a duo connected by womb and passion
(music). It was carved out from a group of Trio called “The
school boyz”. It is simply an identity of our tribe - Ijaw.
The Ijaws call it 'HAN-IZON', but for the sake of easy
pronunciation, we spell “iZon”. An igbo man would say 'igbo
kwenu”, the Ijaws would say “han-izon”.
CP: What inspired you to sing?
James: We all know music is an integral part of life but
basically, our father inspired us indirectly. (By waking us up
with music back in the days as early as 5:00am while he
prepared for work). We started singing from childhood but
released our debut album in 1999.
CP: Any challenges in partnering with a sibling?
James: Two things that easily split groups
are money and women. Having this in mind, we
already had it solved from the start. So there has
never been any reason to regret working
together. The only challenge at the moment is
proper sponsorship.
CP: What inspired the group to sing in Ijaw?
James: It is to showcase the beauty of the Ijaw language
and culture. In addition to that, we want people to see how
creative and blessed Ijaw people are. We are a minority and
many don't know much about us. We also sing in other
languages like Igbo, Yoruba and English.
CP: How do you joggle music and your career in the
corporate world?
James: I am a guy of many parts and my boss (Mr. Ken
Etete) has made multi-tasking a hobby. So for me, it's a
normal part of my life. I am used to it.
CP: Any advice for upcoming artists?
James: Up-coming artists should be focused and take
responsibility for what they do and stand by it. This is
because the world will always stand aside for you to pass, if
you know your destination.
Above all, pray and beware of pride that can destroy your
labor in the twinkle of an eye.
By: Miebi Ifedigbo
CENTURY POST
Mr and Mrs Tari Ogoina. 24th August 2013 in Warri
Emmanuel, son of Sokari AtamsBorn 8th July 2013
Ferdinand and Lily Adimefe. 20th July 2013 in Lagos
SOCIAL DIARY
Chisom - daughter of Uzoma EgbunefuBorn 10th August 2013
SOCIAL DIARYK
EN
@40
Left-right: Ken Etete, Osas Uwaifo and Tainae Okpokiti Ken Etete receiving gift from Newsdirect Newspapers
Ken Etete touched by his daughter’s soulful rendition Left-right: Iyabo Aluko, T.K. Etete and Osas Uwaifo
T.K. Etete and her kids Dakoru Okujagu and Osas Uwaifo
The Etetes Ken proving that life begins at 40
CENTURY GROUP CHAIRMAN: KEN ETETE CELEBRATED HIS 40TH BIRTHDAY ON 30TH OF AUGUST AT HIS LEKKI PHASE1 HOME WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS. CG STAFF WERE NOT LEFT OUT.
CENTURY POST
SOCIAL DIARY
TMP
LA
UN
CH
ING
CENTURY POST
Cross section of guests at the opening
The Mouse Pad launches in grand style.
The Mouse Pad (TMP), located along Wole Ariyo Street in Lekki Phase 1, is a conventional Sports Bar,
lounge and Children's activity centre. It is a pet project of Century Group's ED – T.K Etete and was stlaunched on Saturday the 31 of August 2013.
It boasts of various activities for kids, including a highly coveted 5D viewing room, game rooms and
avenues to teach kids ballet and some martial arts.
The viewing centre is home to many large display flat screen TVs, for you to view your favourite players
and goals from as many angles as possible, and the room is decorated with the jerseys of celebrated
sports heroes, ranging from football to base ball.
Left to right: A guest, Ken and T.K Etete, Seyi Katola & Preye AngayeLeft to right: Steve Obubo, Osas Uwaifo, Christy Kuju, Iyabo Aluko,T.K Etete, Tom Otuaga and Delia Nzekwu
Ken Etete and T.K Etete
L to R: Harold Obasohan, Tom Otuaga & TK Etete in one of the game rooms
Harold and TK on the motor cycle simulators
THE READ
If you were on the hot seat and asked to name 4 prominent contemporary African writers in order to win
₦10,000,000 would you win the prize? If your answer is no then here's some news for you. Africa is
blossoming in every aspect and the African literature isn't left out. Luckily we have a lot of African writers
taking up the task of telling our stories to the world and you bet they are doing a great job at it. The year 2013
has left lovers of fiction quite excited as several of our best writers cooked up some juicy stories that has left
us walking out of the bookstores beaming with smiles. We aren't selfish so below we have shared some
fantastic reads to keep you entertained. Enjoy.
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie:
Chimamanda's third book is an intense love story of two young high-school Nigerians and their journey to self-
discovery and adulthood. The story is told across three countries: Nigeria, the United States of America and the United
Kingdom. Americanah is a bold and fearless tale which explores identity, loneliness and race and the residue left by
decades of racism in the 'developed world'. As entertaining as it is perceptive, “Americanah” is, at heart, a love story,
and, in soul, a work with the ability to alter the lens through which readers view the world.
The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes: Ark, creepy and evocative, Lauren Beukes's third novel is, arguably, her best yet.
The tale of a time-travelling serial killer charged with murdering bright, young women, the fast-paced story – it's set in
the great American city of Chicago – heaves readers into one radical era after another. Fans familiar with the
internationally acclaimed author's work – she's likely the most widely recognised contemporary Capetonian writer – will
find the wildly inventive and incredibly atmospheric “The Shining Girls” quite different from anything Beukes has put
forth in the past. Part horror, part fantasy and part thriller, the book is nearly impossible to put down.
CENTURY POST
The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes:
The debut novel of Zimbabwean author NoViolet Bulawayo, “We Need New Names” tells the story of Darling, a spunky
10-year-old growing up in politically unstable Zimbabwe. Rich, honest and stirring, the plot follows the courageous
protagonist from war-torn Africa to her aunt's house in depressed Michigan (US), where she grapples with the
realisation that life in America is not all it is chalked up to be. With crackling language and characters that leave your
heart in your throat, Bulawayo's tale explores the idea of 'home' and the effects of strife and poverty on the psyche of a
nation. Bulawayo won the 2011 Caine Prize for her short story “Hitting Budapest”.
We Need New Names by Noviolet Bulawayo:
A stunning novel, spanning generations and continents, Ghana Must Go by rising star Taiye Selasi is a tale of family
drama and forgiveness. It is the story of one family, the Sais, whose good life crumbles in an evening; a Ghanaian
father, Kweku Sai, who becomes a highly respected surgeon in the US only to be disillusioned by a grotesque injustice;
his Nigerian wife, Fola, the beautiful homemaker abandoned in his wake; their eldest son, Olu, determined to
reconstruct the life his father should have had; their twins, seductive Taiwo and acclaimed artist Kehinde, both brilliant
but scarred and flailing; their youngest, Sadie, jealously in love with her celebrity best friend. All of them sent reeling on
their disparate paths into the world. Until, one day, tragedy spins the Sais in a new direction.
Ghana Must Go by Taiye Selasi:
THE READ
By: Miebi Ifedigbo
CENTURY POST
THE READTHE READ
By: Delia NzekwuForgiveness
Teach me to shine like the sun,
To glow like the moon,
To sparkle like the stars,
To softly touch like the wind,
They know no colour,
They make no choices.
Teach me to embrace like the rainbow,
To soothe like the meadow,
To gently gaze like wool,
To love like an open book,
They know no other,
They find peace with all, one another.
They slapped my face with deprivation,
My spirit, tortured with base thoughts,
These hands, the labour of menial
miles,
These feet worn in dusty tracks, to shut
out hunger,
These backs bent double for tasks to
feed my members.
Teach me to grieve, so may I forgive,
Teach me to remember, so to feel
reprieve,
This pain, I need not bear no more,
It steals my mind, it breaks my core,
To those who forgive the past, no
scores won.
THE READTHE READ
CENTURY POST
FFUUNNNNYYFFUUNNNNYYSIGNS
SOURCE: Funny Signs From Around The World
Recommended