For second time in 4 months, DisCos raise meter prices by 28.03%....Read Full Article>>

Electricity Distribution Companies, DisCos, have announced a rise in the price of various electricity meter models, making it the second price hike in four months.

According to the DisCos, the cost of a single-phase meter has risen from approximately N117,000 to as much as N149,800. This amount indicates an increase of 28.03 per cent or N32,800, depending on the distribution company and meter vendor.

The new prices posted on the official X handle of the Discos yesterday were scheduled to take effect on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. It also reflected the deregulation of meter asset providers as directed by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC.

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It was learned that the upward revision followed an earlier increase in August 2024, further amplifying concerns among electricity consumers about affordability and accessibility.

An analysis of the documents revealed that meter prices vary across DisCos, influenced by vendors and meter models (single-phase and three-phase).

Eko DisCo pegged the price of its Single Phase Metre between N135,987.5 and N161,035, while a Three Phase Metre was pegged between N226,600 and N266,600.

Ibadan DisCo said customers will pay between a range of N130,998 and N142,548 for a single-phase meter and N226,556.25–NN232,008 for a three-phase meter.

Customers under Abuja DisCo will pay N123,130.53–NN147,812.5 for single-phase meters and N206,345.65–NN236,500 for three-phase meters.

Kano Electricity Distribution said its customers will pay N127,925–N129,999 for a single-phase metre and N223,793–NN235,425 for a three-phase meter.

Kaduna DisCo said N131,150—N142,548.94 would be paid for single-phase meters and N220,375—N232,008.04 three-phase meters.

In April, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission introduced a significant policy shift by announcing the deregulation of meter prices under the Metre Asset Provider, MAP, scheme for end-user customers.

The move was targeted at addressing lingering issues surrounding meter supply and pricing transparency within the electricity sector.

According to NERC’s latest order, meter prices under the MAP scheme will now be determined through competitive bidding, rather than being centralised.

This shift is expected to foster greater competition among meter providers, ultimately improving cost efficiency and service delivery for end users.

The deregulation removes earlier operational restrictions, allowing MAP permit holders to provide metering services across all electricity distribution companies in Nigeria.

However, MAPs must meet specific regulatory requirements to ensure compliance and maintain quality standards in service delivery.

Recall that NERC regulated meter prices, which were often subsidised across all DisCos to reduce costs for customers. While this model aimed to make metering affordable, it inadvertently stifled competition and limited transparency in the supply chain.

As a result, DisCos and customers were unable to negotiate or explore better deals from meter vendors, contributing to inefficiencies in the system.

With deregulation now in place, NERC anticipates a more dynamic metering ecosystem where customers and DisCos can benefit from competitive pricing, improved service quality, and greater accountability among meter providers.

Canada’s LMIA-Exempt Work Visa: 20 Leading Employers for Foreign Workers in 2025....Read Full Article>>

For professionals aiming to work in Canada, navigating the visa process can be challenging. Understanding LMIA exemptions—Labor Market Impact Assessment exemptions—is critical, especially after recent updates to Canadian immigration policies in 2024.

What Is an LMIA-Exempt Work Visa? [2024 Updates]Eligibility for LMIA-Exempt Work VisasCompanies Offering LMIA-Exempt Jobs in 2025Benefits of LMIA-Exempt Work Visa JobsHow to Find LMIA-Exempt Opportunities with These CompaniesConclusion: Why LMIA-Exempt Work Visa Jobs Are Ideal for International Talent

With these updates, foreign workers seeking jobs in Canada must stay informed about LMIA exemptions, which allow certain employers to hire international talent without needing an LMIA. This article explains what an LMIA-exempt work visa is, highlights policy changes from 2024, and presents a list of 20 Canadian companies expected to offer LMIA-exempt positions in 2025.
What Is an LMIA-Exempt Work Visa? [2024 Updates]
Understanding LMIA in Simple Terms

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that most Canadian employers must obtain if they plan to hire a foreign worker. The LMIA proves there is a legitimate need for the foreign hire and that no Canadian is available to fill the role. For many employers, securing an LMIA can be a lengthy and complicated process, making LMIA exemptions highly appealing.
Key Policy Changes to LMIA in 2024

Canada introduced significant LMIA updates in 2024 to adapt to the changing labor market. Here’s what’s new:

Reduced Employment Duration: The maximum employment duration for low-wage foreign workers has been shortened from 2 years to 1 year.
Shortened Validity of New LMIAs: New LMIAs are valid for only six months, ensuring that employers’ hiring needs align with the current labor market.
New LMIA-Exempt Permit Under the Innovation Stream: Canada launched an LMIA-exempt work permit specifically for certain tech companies under the Innovation Stream. This program caters to high-skilled tech professionals, making it easier for them to work in Canada.

These changes emphasize Canada’s focus on streamlining work permits for specialized skills, especially in tech, healthcare, and academic sectors.
Eligibility for LMIA-Exempt Work Visas
1. International Agreements

Some foreign workers qualify for LMIA-exempt visas under international agreements, such as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS). These agreements enable foreign professionals in select roles to work in Canada without an LMIA, fostering economic partnerships and trade relationships.
2. Federal-Provincial Agreements

Canada has federal-provincial agreements that allow certain foreign workers to move to Canada without needing an LMIA. These agreements are typically specific to provinces with labor shortages in specific sectors.
3. Canadian Interests

Foreign workers whose skills provide a unique benefit to Canada are eligible for LMIA exemptions under the “Canadian Interests” category. This can include research scientists, specialized entrepreneurs, and artists whose work positively impacts the local economy or cultural landscape.
4. Intra-Company Transfers and Other Specific Categories

Intra-company transfers, investors with significant business stakes in Canada, and charitable or religious workers are often eligible for LMIA exemptions. These exemptions encourage international companies to bring experienced staff to Canada, supporting economic growth.
Companies Offering LMIA-Exempt Jobs in 2025

This section introduces 20 companies expected to offer LMIA-exempt opportunities in 2025, spanning industries like tech, education, healthcare, and the arts. Here’s a look at each company:
No. Company Name Industry Overview
1 Ada Support Inc. Artificial Intelligence Specializes in AI-driven customer service solutions. Offers remote work options.
2 AlayaCare Healthcare Technology Provides cloud-based software for home care services. Has offices in Montreal and Toronto.
3 CellCarta Biotechnology Focuses on biomarker research for personalized medicine.
4 Clarius Mobile Health Medical Devices Develops portable ultrasound devices. Recognized for hybrid work options.
5 Clio Legal Technology Offers cloud-based software for law firms with flexible work arrangements.
6 Lightspeed Commerce E-commerce Provides a commerce platform for retail and hospitality businesses.
7 Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group Pharmaceuticals Develops new medicines with hybrid teleworking and flexible schedules.
8 Vive Crop Protection Agricultural Technology Innovates in crop protection products.
9 Shopify E-commerce Platform for online stores and retail point-of-sale systems.
10 OpenAI Artificial Intelligence Engages in AI research and technology deployment.
11 Tesla Automotive and Energy Focuses on electric vehicles and renewable energy solutions.
12 University of Toronto Education One of Canada’s leading universities; hires international researchers.
13 McGill University Education Renowned for research and academic excellence; offers LMIA-exempt positions.
14 University of British Columbia Education Top-tier research university employing international staff.
15 National Arts Centre Arts and Culture Hosts performances and hires international artists and performers.
16 The Banff Centre Arts and Leadership Offers arts and leadership programs; engages international talent.
17 United Nations (UN) Offices International Organization Employs staff from various countries on global policy and issues.
18 World Health Organization (WHO) International Health Focuses on global health concerns with positions for international experts.
19 Shell Canada Energy Operates in oil and gas sectors, engaging international professionals.
20 Siemens Canada Engineering and Technology Provides electrification, automation, and digitalization solutions; known for hiring globally.
Benefits of LMIA-Exempt Work Visa Jobs
1. Faster Processing Times

Since LMIA-exempt permits bypass the LMIA process, applications are processed faster, benefiting both employers and foreign workers by reducing the wait time.
2. Flexibility for Specialized Roles

Many LMIA-exempt roles focus on specialized skills, such as tech, healthcare, and research positions. This flexibility attracts skilled workers who bring unique expertise to the Canadian workforce.
3. Encourages International Collaboration

Programs like intra-company transfers allow international companies to bring global expertise to Canada, enhancing collaboration in sectors like AI, biotechnology, and renewable energy.
4. Enhanced Opportunities for Highly Skilled Workers

LMIA-exempt jobs in Canada offer a pathway for highly skilled professionals to work in innovative industries, aligning with Canada’s goal to build a knowledge-based economy.
How to Find LMIA-Exempt Opportunities with These Companies

Company Websites: The best source for LMIA-exempt job listings is the careers page of each company.
Job Portals: Websites like LinkedIn and Indeed often post LMIA-exempt jobs, especially in high-demand fields like tech and healthcare.
Networking Events: Professional events, industry seminars, and webinars are excellent opportunities to connect with hiring managers and learn about job openings.

Conclusion: Why LMIA-Exempt Work Visa Jobs Are Ideal for International Talent

LMIA-exempt work visas open doors for foreign professionals seeking opportunities in Canada. By understanding the eligibility criteria, policy changes, and leading companies offering LMIA-exempt positions, job seekers can navigate the Canadian immigration landscape with confidence. With Canada’s ongoing need for skilled professionals, particularly in tech, education, and healthcare, LMIA-exempt roles provide a unique and valuable pathway for international talent.
References

Canada’s Foreign Worker Programs and LMIA Requirements
Understanding the International Mobility Program
Recent LMIA Policy Changes

This article provides detailed insights into the LMIA-exempt process, the benefits of working under such permits, and the top 20 companies offering these opportunities in Canada in 2025, with all information aligned with the latest Canadian immigration policies and processes.

Nigerian Doctors Withdraw Services from Specialist Hospital Over Commissioner’s Alleged Assault On Colleague....Read Full Article>>

NMA said it has resolved to withdraw all medical services at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital indefinitely, effective from noon Wednesday, November 6, 2024 until its demands are fully met.

The Kano State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) says it has indefinitely withdrawn all medical services at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, effective from noon on Wednesday, until their demands are fully met.

The association had demanded the removal of the state Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Amina Abdullahi, following allegations of assault on a doctor at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.

In a statement issued on Monday by NMA Chairman Dr. Abdurrahman Ali and Secretary Dr. Ibrahim Muhammad, the association asserted that the commissioner’s actions “constitute misconduct, punishable by dismissal as enshrined in Section 3(a)(0), (ii), (iv), and (v) of the Public Service Rules.”

The NMA stated that the assault, which allegedly took place on November 1 at the hospital’s Emergency Paediatric Unit, represented an abuse of power from an official expected to uphold humanitarian values.

The NMA accused the commissioner and her entourage, including security personnel, of harassing and assaulting the doctor.

The altercation reportedly arose from the unavailability of prescribed medication, a situation beyond the doctor’s control, who was singlehandedly managing over 100 patients.

The association highlighted that incidents of this nature are becoming increasingly common, placing medical professionals in unacceptable personal risk as they strive to fulfil their duties under challenging conditions.

The NMA threatened to suspend medical services at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital within 48 hours if their demands are not met.

However, Dr. Muhammad Aminu Musa, the group public relation officer in a statement on Wednesday stated that despite an investigation conducted by the Ministry of Health which confirmed that the doctor was not at fault, no action has been taken to address the alleged misconduct of the commissioner.

NMA said it has resolved to withdraw all medical services at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital indefinitely, effective from noon Wednesday, November 6, 2024 until its demands are fully met.

The statement reads in part, “Following a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kano State Branch in response to the assault on a female doctor at the Emergency Paediatric Unit of Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, we regret to inform the public and all relevant stakeholders that no concrete action has been taken by the Kano State Government.

“An investigation conducted by the Ministry of Health has confirmed that the doctor was not at fault in the incident, verifying that she acted with full professionalism in her duties.

“Despite this, no action has been taken to address the misconduct of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, who led this assault and harassed a healthcare worker performing her duties under extremely challenging conditions.

“The NMA Kano has therefore resolved to withdraw all medical services at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital indefinitely, effective from 12 noon today, 6th November 2024 until the following demands are fully met:

“Immediate dismissal of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs.

“Adequate staffing & resource allocation; Immediate steps must be taken to meet the minimum benchmark requirement for healthcare personnel in the facility, ensuring that doctors are not forced to work under conditions that put their safety and patients’ health at risk.

“Enhanced security measures; provision and maintenance of adequate security for all units within the hospital to protect healthcare workers and patients.”