A Productive Rant About Electricity Bills

When do rants get productive? Well, this is a productive rant about electricity in Nigeria. Electricity shortages are a reality in Nigeria, and this rant has highlighted the need for sustainable and reliable power solutions.

I AM SCREAMINGGGGGGG!!!!

“How did I spend this much on electricity in January?” I have other bills to pay too. “How did this happen?”

Okay, let’s stop here for a while and smile a bit. That is the agony of every adult Nigerian at some point in their life. You can’t imagine how much you spend on bills, the most important one being electricity. 

Electricity bills are hefty. They tend to run the pocket dry when they are not regulated. Against all the other bills we pay as adults, the electricity bill is perhaps the biggest. We heard of people who spend over 35% of their monthly income on electricity bills alone. This is not surprising considering the rate of inflation in the country.

As a Nigerian, having a monthly budget is often laughable because we tend to overspend that budget at some point. If we don’t overspend on transportation, the tariff on electricity will increase at some point. The prices of commodities and utilities are never fixed. This severely cripples the effects of budgeting. Back to our rant, guys. 

Major blackout,

One major event that kept recurring in 2022 was the power grid that kept collapsing. The government blamed the repeated grid outages on poor management and insufficient gas supplies. The grid collapsed approximately seven times last year, causing total blackouts every time. The government’s explanations for the grid outages were backed up by reports from energy experts who found that the outages were caused by a combination of insufficient gas supplies and issues with the way the grid was being managed. Poor maintenance, aging infrastructure, and inadequate staffing were all identified as contributing factors.

Electricity bills increment,

The steady rise in the bill is very uncomfortable in a country where the rate of inflation rises without a commensurate rise in income.  This is the backbone of our rant today. The electricity tariff went up by 18.5% in the last quarter of 2022. The implications of this are by no means minuscule. Its impact was harder than that of the Titanic against the iceberg that sank it. Monthly financial plan in the mud. . Just sit tight, and let’s unravel what works and what does not work in this Nigerian context. Since it isn’t possible to change tariffs, we can change what we can. To continue this productive rant about electricity in Nigeria,

We all started with post-paid meters. That sorta type where ‘NEPA” (we don’t call them that anymore) officials bring a bill to show how much electricity you have spent and how much you had to pay. Those bills were outrageous. If you couldn’t afford them, your power would be disconnected. The prepaid meters came along many years after. This has its own advantages and disadvantages. Ask an average Nigerian, and they will tell you their preferred choice.

Remember when you would stand outside begging NEPA officials not to disconnect you while someone ran to the nearest NEPA office to help you pay your bill? Those are stories now. Just like with Prepaid Meters, disconnection is unnecessary, with VTpass, going out to pay bills is unnecessary. Simply log on to vtpass.com or download the mobile app to buy airtime or data, pay electricity or education bills, Pay DStv, GOtv, or Startimes subscription, or buy insurance cover.

Experience seamless payments and get immediate value when you pay your electricity bills and more with VTpass.


Paying Electricity Bills Online: Expectations vs. Reality.

Paying electricity bills online can be a convenient and cost-effective way to manage your bills. However, it can also be unreliable and difficult to navigate. Issues can arise with logging in, payments not going through, and not receiving confirmation emails.

Paying bills online has come to stay. Paying bills online is becoming increasingly popular as it is a convenient, time-saving way to manage your finances. It is a trend that is gaining more and more traction as technology advances. This is because more people are getting comfortable using internet services to make payments for various goods and services. With the added security features available, it is not surprising that paying bills online has now become the new normal. 

Paying electricity bills online on Vtpass just got more convenient.

For instance, many financial institutions offer their customers the ability to set up automatic payments. This allows their customers to ensure that bills are paid on time without having to manually submit payment every time.

EXPECTATIONS

Customers have come to expect fast and reliable online bill payment options that are easy to set up and use. These technologies have made it possible for consumers process payments quickly and securely. And they also have helped to build trust between financial institutions and their customers. 

Online billing platforms have made it much easier for customers to pay their bills on time and with confidence. Customers can get electricity tokens easily by going online, which eliminates the need to travel to a payment point. This has made it much more convenient for customers to pay their bills without any disruption.

The reality of paying electricity bills online is that it has made it much simpler and more secure. Customers can now pay their bills with just a few clicks, without having to worry about dealing with cash. Plus, they can be sure that their transactions are secure and their money is safe. Additionally, customers can take advantage of discounts, promotions, and other offers that are available for those paying their bills online.

FURTHER ADO,

The experience is similar to ordering groceries online. It’s a convenient and secure way to get the things you need without ever leaving the comfort of your home. Plus, customers can shop from anywhere, anytime, and have their order delivered within days – or sometimes even hours. It also eliminates the need to wait in line at a store or worry about parking or other hassles.

The advantage of paying electricity bills online is that it is quick, easy, and secure. Customers can view their bills and make payments from the comfort of their homes. Plus, the online payment process is often more secure as it uses encryption technology to protect customer data.

The disadvantage of paying electricity bills online is that not everyone has access to the internet. Which makes it difficult for some customers to pay their bills. Additionally, customers may not be comfortable making payments online due to security concerns. 

Security concerns about online payments include the risk of identity theft, the use of malicious software, and the possibility of hackers accessing financial information. These risks can deter customers from making payments online, especially if they are not familiar with the process.

They should also be able to verify the legitimacy of the website they are using before entering their financial information. Furthermore, customers should check for signs of security such as a lock icon and ‘https’ in the website address when paying for services online.

REALITY,

In Nigeria, paying electricity bills online is becoming a reality, with several websites offering customers the ability to buy their bills digitally. To help customers feel secure when paying their bills online, legitimate websites often feature encryption and other security measures.

To ensure customers feel safe, Vtpass has invested in a range of encryption and other security measures to ensure their payments are made securely. Not only this, but our customers can be sure to get value for whatever they pay for. Tokens are delivered immediately payment is confirmed, and can be reserved for up to 90 days. To top it all off, Vtpass provides a 24/7 customer service team on hand to answer any queries and provide a helping hand, so customers can be sure that their needs are taken care of.

As always, VTpass remains the number 1 bills payment platform that offers you seamless payment and swift delivery of the value for which you pay for. This is one of the tools we have built in place to aid you always get prompt value, irrespective of any irregularities that may arise.

In conclusion, bills payment with vtpass.com is superfast, easy and very convenient. Just a few clicks and you’re done. In addition, you get 24/7 access to our support team to help you through any glitch you might have. Why don’t you try us today?

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EDUCATION

“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X

Why International day of Education?

The international day of education is celebrated today globally. It is a day to celebrate the importance of education. And also to acknowledge the efforts of educators around the world in providing quality education to all. It is also a day to recognise the power of education to transform lives and create a better future. We should thank all educators and recognise the great work they do to ensure that education is accessible to all.

Education not only provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in the economy. It also teaches them the values and ethics essential for responsible citizenship. It help create a culture of innovation, and encourages citizens to take up roles as active members of community. Education also encourages citizens to think critically, develop problem-solving skills, and assume ownership of their own success. Ultimately, education is the foundation for all meaningful progress and positive change. Shiv Nadar, the founder of HCL wrote: “Education is and will be the most powerful tool for individual and social change, and we must do all that it takes to facilitate it.” And to emphasise this point is why the international day of education is celebrated globally.

UN and International Day of Education

The United Nations’ Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has the right to education. Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, creating more opportunities, and improving the overall quality of life. It also helps to create a more informed,, and inclusive society that can better address global issues such as inequality. Around 90 percent of the world’s population had completed a primary education, whereas only 66 percent had attained secondary education.

This is due to a combination of factors such as violence, child, early, and forced marriages, lack of schools, inadequate infrastructure, unsafe environments, limitations in teacher training, and systemic gender biases. All of these factors have contributed to the instability of education in the country. Gender plays a major role in the educational system in Nigeria, as girls are often excluded from accessing quality education due to a variety of cultural and economic factors. It is clear that gender disparities in education are a major challenge in Nigeria. This issue needs to be addressed in order to promote equal access to education for all.

Education and people

This year’s theme for the international day of education is ‘to invest in people, prioritise education’. In order to ensure that all children in Nigeria, regardless of gender, have access to an education, there needs to be a concerted effort to invest in educational infrastructure and resources. This includes investing in teacher training, providing quality textbooks and materials, and strengthening educational policies. Such efforts will ensure that all children, regardless of gender, can access a quality education and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. This will lead to a more equitable education system in the country, where all children, regardless of gender, can access the same resources and opportunities. This will lead to a more equitable and just society, where all children can grow up with the same chances of success.

Education and society

One cannot undermine the role of education in a society. Children would realise their potential and develop skills that will be beneficial for the nation in the long run . This will also reduce income inequality and create a more level playing field for all citizens.

A robust society fosters strong families that uphold solid familial values, which lowers social evils and crime. 

For example, countries such as Japan and South Korea have a strong middle class, low crime rates, and a high level of educational attainment. This has contributed to their success. In particular, Japan’s high educational attainment levels have enabled it to develop cutting-edge technologies that have been critical in driving its economic growth. 

Conclusively,

It is similar to a student investing the time and effort to obtain a high-quality education. Because of the long-term payoffs in terms of higher wages and a better quality of life. Investing in people by prioritising education is a key way to ensure long-term success. Education helps to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the modern economy. Investing in education is an investment in the future. This is because it yields dividends in form of higher wages, increased job opportunities, and a better quality of education. Education also provide an understanding of the world, which can lead to greater empathy and better appreciation of different ideas. Investing in education can help society progress and become more productive, leading to greater economic success.

The United Nations General Assembly has declared 24 January as the International Day of Education. This is in recognition of the vital role that education plays in peace and development. 

Hurry! Right now, the 2023 JAMB e-PIN (UTME/DE) is still available on VTpass. Simply log on to vtpass.com/jamb to buy your JAMB e-PINs now! Also, WAEC Result Checker Pin is available here

Vtpass.

Movies Weekend – Excellent movies to catch on Dstv M-net this weekend.

Not to lie, weekends are for fun and enjoyment. What better way can we enjoy the weekend if not with some good movies and popcorn. It’s not that this is a tradition, or somewhat. It is as a matter of necessity that one catches fun after a long week of work. 

Mondays to Fridays are really not our friends, so if you are the party all weekend person. Who can blame you? If you are an introvert, who loves the serene atmosphere of their bedroom, and the aesthetic nature of their television. We are all in for you. Then a movies weekend is the best for you.

A lot of movies are going down this Saturday on DStv M Movies channels, and making choices on what to watch can be a little overwhelming. Luckily for you, we’ve selected a mix of our favorite movies to look out for on DStv Channels 104, 106, 107, and 108. Check out our exciting list below!

Weekend starts today.

THE PROTEGE

Okay, to some of us, the weekend starts on friday. So let viewing proceed.  The protege will be showing on friday at 20:30 at your favorite M2 channel 106. 

Where’s the popcorn at? 

DEATH OF A TELEMARKETER– FRIDAY 20 – M1 104 – 22:45

One more movie for the night. And we promise, it is worth your time. A thriller comedy drama. How did the telemarketer die, or did he even die at all? Watch and get all your answers. It’s showing on M1 channel 104 at 22:45. 

NO TIME TO DIE – 5:50 – SATURDAY 21, 106 M2. 

James Bond has retired from active duty. Felix Leiter, an old friend from the CIA, turns up asking for help, leading Bond on the trail of a mysterious villain with dangerous science tech. 

Catch James Bond on Saturday on M2 channel 106. Time is 17:50. 

At night, before sleep comes

The survivalist

SURVIVALIST_HS_0615___DSC9627.jpg

Who minds an action thriller movie on a saturday night. Definitely, no one. And don’t bother about not being able to sleep at night, because you will go to bed fulfilled and happy.  This movie will show at 22:30 on M2 channel 106. 

Kandasamy: The Wedding – 11: 50, 107 M2, saturday

Kandasamys: The wedding. Enjoy a perfect movies weekend.

An Indian South African wedding weaves the story and Jodi and Prishen’s love is tested once more by their mothers, who claim to love them most. Shanthi and Jennifer must learn how to let go of their children so that they can be happy. In turn, they must realize that ultimately, their children’s happiness is the source of their own.

HOW ELSE SHOULD WE CONVINCE YOU THAT YOU MUST WATCH THIS MOVIE? Catch it on Saturday 11:50, on M2 channel 107. 

On Sunday,

Captain Sabertooth and the magic diamond 

Okay, this is on a sunday morning. For the non-church goers, it would be an amazing time with Captain Sabertooth. What adventure did Captain Sabertooth and his pirate crew go on?? Watch this on M3 captain 107 on Sunday morning.

Tower Heist – 18:45, 22/01/23, M4 108. 

Since when do crime and comedy go together? But this movie defied all odds, as Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller come together to create this fantastic crime comedy, (this sounds funny). 

So grab your popcorn and your favorite duvet. The movie is showing at 18:45, at M4 channel 108.  

TOP GUN MAVERICK – 101 M, 20:000, 22/01/23,  

Perfect movies weekend with Tog Gun Maverick

Finally, we are here. End the weekend on a high note with TOP GUN MAVERICK. It is a blockbuster, so you must have seen this. It’s not a bad idea to rewatch this movie. It’s not too late to see it also. 

Yet to subscribe to your DStv? 

Renew your DStv subscription on VTpass easily, without breaking a sweat. Pay other Tv subscriptions on Vtpass. 

 Don’t forget to prepare for the amazing weekdays that follow. 

Cheers to an amazing movies weekend. 

3 TANGIBLE REASONS YOU NEED THIRD PARTY INSURANCE

Everything you need to know about third party insurance

A third party insurance policy is obtained by an insured from an insurance company for protection against the claims of another.

In essence, third-party insurance is a type of liability insurance. Regardless of the cause of the losses or damages, the first party is liable for them. Automobile insurance is one of the most popular kinds of third-party insurance.

Additionally, the coverage shields one from legal responsibility resulting from unintentional damages, including any fatality and harm done.

The insurance rate is based on a number of factors, including the type of vehicle and its value.

Third-party insurance provides protection from claims of damages sustained by a motorist who is not the insured, and is not protected by the insurance policy. The third component is the motorist who caused the harm.

A third party insurance protects the insured against any claims of damages levied by a third-party. 

Types of Third Party Insurance

  • Bodily injury liability:– In simple words, if you are responsible for a car accident, a bodily injury liability will cover the medical expenses of casualties of the accident, excluding the insured. 

In the case that the other driver requires physical rehabilitation as part of their recovery journey. Another possibility is that the accident victim income because he is unable to work or carry out his essential duties. Your bodily injury liability protection could assist in covering their damages in this situation. 

  • Property damage liability:- A property damage liability is coverage that pays when a driver causes damage to another person’s property in an accident. It can take the form of another car of any type of property. A property damage liability insurance provides aid in paying for repairs for damage done to another person’s property or vehicle. 

If you are at fault for the contretemps, the policy does not cover impairment to your own vehicle.

Why Third Party Insurance is Important;

  • The law requires it:

The Nigerian Insurance Act 2003 stipulates compulsory Third-party motor insurance in section 68 of the Insurance Act, 2003. According to this act, no person shall use, or cause or permit any other person to use a motor vehicle unless such a vehicle is insured against damage to the property of third parties.

It is therefore safe to say that third party insurance is compulsory for car-owners in Nigeria. According to the insurance law, it is required for drivers in Nigeria to carry at least third party auto insurance in order to cover other parties who may be involved in an accident.

– Accidents happen: 

Car accidents continue to occur despite new developments in vehicle technology like backup cameras, adaptive headlights, and forward collision systems (FCS). Accidents may not yet have a rational cause or explanation, but one thing is for certain. Accidents are inevitable.

Most of traffic accidents are caused more by the driver’s actions than their knowledge of how to operate a vehicle. In fact, human error is at blame for over 94% of all traffic accidents.

Many motorists may eventually discover that they have engaged in some of the most typical behaviours that result in auto accidents. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motor accidents. Contrary to widespread belief, the brain is unable to concentrate on more than one job at once. This indicates that the brain is unable to maintain constant attention on what is ahead when a motorist is texting, chatting on the phone, grooming, reading, or even eating while driving.

AND THE LAST ONE;

Everyone needs a backup: 

You may never be able to predict when this sad incident would occur, even if you are the kindest driver you have ever encountered. And you’ll undoubtedly need backup when that moment comes. A third-party auto insurance policy gives you peace of mind in the event of a stressful or terrible circumstance that is expensive. Consequently, you will receive immediate stress relief and aid in dealing with the situation rather than worrying about these costs.

Why would you risk your safety against the hurly-burly  of Lagos or the maladroitness of other drivers on any Nigerian street?

Furthermore,

Our friend, Tade Bigston,  a prominent Nigerian elite that belongs to the business class of the society. Last week, he upgraded his social status among his contemporaries further by acquiring the latest lavish Toyota vehicle. However, Bigston did not want to take any chances, especially given the chaotic nature of Lagos. So he took his friend’s advice and signed up for a third-party motor insurance coverage through Vtpass. 

Bigston’s car collided with another vehicle on a fateful Monday morning, severely damaging the latter. He originally felt depressed at the prospect of having to fix the automobile. But his mood soon improved when he remembered that he had insurance for his vehicle. 

The expenses of mechanics and vehicle artisans can be an unavoidable pain in uncomfortable places. However, motor accident expenses are avoidable when you get a third party motor vehicle cover on VTpass. That way you do not have to directly bear the cost accruing to accidents to your vehicle. Here’s How!

You’re not wishing for it, neither am I. But you can avoid the avoidable by simply purchasing/renewing your third party auto insurance on vtpass.com today .