Top Five Places To Visit While In Ibadan

Ibadan, a place rich in history, the parent that welcomes home its lost children who found refuge during the Fulani invasion of the northern part of the Yorubaland and the parent who still accommodates its children both faraway and nearby.

Ibadan never forsakes but gives you its warm embrace.

Many who have visited Ibadan have found it less stressful compared to Lagos and while some planned their relocation there after falling in love with the City. Others who liked the city decided to stay where they currently reside in because of factors such as employability, however, people from states where the employability rate is worst than Ibadan opts to stay in Ibadan. Ibadan is for those who are actively doing business or civil servants,at least that was the perception until more companies recently decided to start operations over there.

People visit Ibadan for so many reasons but while there, you don’t want to miss out on what Ibadan has to offer. Here are five places to visit in Ibadan:

1. Amala Joint

Who loves his or her Amala soft with the input of ewedu and gbegiri soup? Well if you do then, there is enough Amala Joint in Ibadan to make you go crazy on where to visit.

2. University of Ibadan Zoo

University of Ibadan boasting of the only major Zoo in Nigeria. The zoo consisting of various mammals, reptiles and birds. Have you ever seen hyena or a tortoise or Lion? Well if not, then here is your chance.

3.National Museum Ibadan

Where better to explore the culture and history of Ibadan than the museum. The Museum has what it takes to make you wanting more if you love arts, history and culture.

4. Ibadan Polo Tournament

Are you with friends or with your family then you don’t want to miss all the fun that the polo club offers, you can always unwind with friends while watching the polo tournament.

5. Agodi Gardens

If you don’t visit the Agodi Gardens then probably you didn’t come to visit. The popular Agodi Garden consists of a park and a zoological Garden. Agodi Garden is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the day. There is a lot of activities that takes place in this Garden and don’t forget the infrastructure created to help you have fun. You are going to love it.

These 5 places are where you should be when you visit Ibadan except you want to sound strange when you are asked where did you visit in Ibadan. Well, just kidding but these are major places to visit while in Ibadan.

Inflation Trend in Sub-Saharan Africa

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According to the EIU, SSA inflation is estimated to average 8.1% in 2021 before falling to 8.0% in 2022. The inflationary trend across SSA is a mixed bag. Four of the SSA countries under our review recorded higher inflation while two posted a decline. Food price movement and transport costs largely determined the inflation trend.

Of the SSA countries under our review, only the Bank of Ghana reduced its benchmark interest rate to support the country’s economic recovery.

Inflation Trend

Inflation Outlook in Q3

Whilst the controversy rages on whether the current inflation is reflective of reality, we must bear in mind that the CBN has been consistent in its contention that an inflation rate above 12% is growth retarding. It has also been resolute in its belief that a stable exchange rate is an antidote to rising inflation.

Inflation has its seasonality features and core inflation, which discounts seasonal factors from headline inflation, is expected to be relatively mild this time. Whilst the planting season effect will take a toll on prices in the next quarter, one feature of the planting season this year is that farmers who normally consumed only grains are now consuming seeds and grains.

Seed consumption reduces the planting stock and slashes the harvest of the next season. Therefore, we should expect some shortages in food output next quarter in addition to higher logistics costs and ultimately higher food inflation in Q3.

This is an excerpt from Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) Economic Bulletin.

Nigeria: Is inflation transient or structural?

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Global economists are struggling with differentiating between the features of the current inflation trend. Whilst the Fed insists that the recent inflation looked more transient, some others like Larry Summers believes that the wage increase and stimulus package may lead to a more protracted inflation spiral. In Nigeria, current inflation is driven by a number of factors – some structural and some transient.

October Inflation Rate Jumps to 14.23% as Food, Core Prices Rise brandspurng
REUTERS/Akintunde Akinleye
  • Money supply growth (M2): Theoretically, money supply growth is a fundamental driver of inflation especially in the short run. However, in the long term, it unlocks unemployed resources. Broad money supply jumped by 20.09% to N38.38trn in April 2021 from N31.96trn in April 2020 and is projected to increase towards N40trn in June.
  • Fiscal deficit: Economists are of the opinion that an increase in fiscal deficit could fuel inflationary pressures. This is because increased government borrowing especially through ways and means advances would boost liquidity and exert inflationary pressures.
  • Exchange rate pass-through effect: Imported inflation has remained high due to currency pressures. In recent times, the blend between official and autonomous rate has improved to 20:80 from 10:90. This is expected to reduce the average blended rate to N450-460/$ from N476/$ in Jan’21, pointing to a possible reduction in import costs.
  • Insecurity: Insecurity has been a major disruptor to the commodities value chain. Our market survey revealed that commodities with the highest price increases are grown in the North. In the last 5 months, the price of beans increased by almost 50%, tomatoes jumped by 285% while pepper surged by 300%. The Onion Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria has threatened to stop the supply of onions to the South. This could push up the price of onions to over N40,000 per bag from its current price of N21,000.
  • Higher energy costs: State governors have agreed to full deregulation of the downstream sector, which points to a possible increase in the price of PMS to N385/$ in the near term. Average petrol price increased to N165/litre in 2021 from N145/litre in 2020. Transport and logistics account for 6.51% of the inflation basket. Also, there is likely to be another electricity tariff hike in July.

This is an excerpt from Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) Economic Bulletin.

Headline inflation to increase again to 18.2% in May – Analyst

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Based on our time series model and market survey, headline inflation is likely to increase to 18.2% in the month of May from 18.12% in April. The earlier news that headline inflation slipped marginally in April 2021 was received with a certain amount of scepticism by analysts.

This was mainly due to the fact that anecdotal proxies seemed to be running contrary to the data. The question on the minds of most analysts is if this drop was a blip or a trend.

Inflation

What also raised eyebrows was the statement by the FAO that global food prices are at a 10-year high of 4.8%. Therefore, it becomes more difficult for analysts to comprehend how food inflation in Nigeria would be running in the opposite direction of the global food basket. Food inflation is projected to rise to 24.15% in May.

In addition, inflation in the US climbed to a 13-year high of 4.2% in April. The consensus forecast is for an increase to 4.7% in May. In the UK, inflation doubled from 0.7% in March to 1.5% in April. This is the highest level since March 2020.

In Sub-Saharan Africa, four of the countries under our review (Angola, Kenya, South Africa and Zambia) recorded higher inflation rates. Apart from Kenya, these countries have inflation rates higher than their interest rates.

Apart from the anticipated rise in headline (y-o-y) inflation, our model also indicates a sharp increase in monthly inflation to 1.2% (15.34% annualized) from 0.97% (12.3% annualized) in April. Core inflation (inflation fewer seasonalities) is also likely to creep up to 13.32% from 12.74% in April.

Headline inflation
NBS, FDC Think Tank

Inflation outlook in Q3

Whilst the controversy rages on whether the current inflation is reflective of reality, we must bear in mind that the CBN has been consistent in its contention that an inflation rate above 12% is growth retarding. It has also been resolute in its belief that a stable exchange rate is an antidote to rising inflation.

Inflation has its seasonality features and core inflation, which discounts seasonal factors from headline inflation, is expected to be relatively mild this time. Whilst the planting season effect will take a toll on prices in the next quarter, one feature of the planting season this year is that farmers who normally consumed only grains are now consuming seeds and grains.

Seed consumption reduces the planting stock and slashes the harvest of the next season. Therefore, we should expect some shortages in food output next quarter in addition to higher logistics costs and ultimately higher food inflation in Q3.

Gov Emmanuel applauded for making Akwa Ibom Workers Highest Paid in Nigeria

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Governor Udom Emmanuel has been lauded for prioritizing the welfare of Akwa Ibom State medical workers, making them the highest paid in Nigeria.

Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Ime Udoh said this when he led a delegation of executive committee members of the Association to visit the Governor at Government House, Uyo, Saturday.

Highest Paid

Dr. Ime Udoh, who thanked Governor Emmanuel for being the first Chief Executive to grant the Association audience in the state, lauded his administration’s passionate attention to healthcare. He explained that “Your Excellency’s approval of a Consolidated Medical Salary Scale, CONMESS, places workers in the state government’s employ as highest paid in the country”.

Dr. Udoh further applauded the Governor’s ingenuity in containing the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the commencement of the state university teaching hospital AKSUTH among other initiatives.

Highest Paid

He said these were indicative of his government’s acknowledgement of health as the ‘sub-stratum for development, adding that the government has not only prevented the capital flight from the state but has, through the Jubilee Syringe Factory, attracted medical tourism to the state.

Receiving the NMA leadership, Gov Emmanuel, said with AKSUTH the state was set to bridge the gap between the already existing ultra-modern secondary and quaternary medical facilities in the state and reiterated his administration’s resolve to maintain the status quo of the health workers in the state being the highest-paid nationwide.

Highest Paid

Governor Emmanuel acknowledged the contributions of medical practitioners in the state government’s fight against COVID-19.

Affirming his administration’s resolve to ensure a holistic approach in revamping the state’s healthcare sector, Governor Emmanuel said the Jubilee Syringe Factory, beyond its reputation of largest syringe production capacity in Africa, will soon venture into production of all plastic medical consumables, assuring that the state-of-the-art Akwa Ibom State University Teaching Hospital, AKSUTH, underway, will be a model tertiary hospital.

“Not just the syringe, we are starting other consumables; everything plastic consumable in the medical line, like all those gloves.

“We need a lot of your support in setting up our Teaching Hospital and we really mean business about that.

“As a state, we are doing well in the secondary healthcare system. We jumped to establish a quaternary hospital. The next level is to set up a very good tertiary hospital.

“When we run that one well, well equipped, it will give birth to a College of Medicine. With what we have in mind and what we are going to bring in, we will have the best Teaching Hospital owned by a state government”.

“He congratulated members of the new NMA leadership in the state on their emergence and urged them to use the pivotal position of the Medical Association to support his administration’s drive towards holistic development of the healthcare sector.

He rued that lack of good surgery recovery plan, bedside manners, laboratory services and other complementary services can render the medical practice counterproductive.

“Where I am suffering very much now, as a governor, is bedside manners with recovering patients. When you finish as the Doctor it is not all over. The recovery of that patient at times is as serious as what you did, especially in the theatre.

“You only go on ward rounds, maybe in the morning or evening, you don’t know what happens to those people, but I’m getting a whole lot of reports of terrible bedside manners of nurses and other medical workers.

“I’m also having a whole lot of issues is all these labs being set up and we are going to clamp down on them very soon”, the governor said.

FirstBank’s Sponsored Movie, ‘Ayinla’, Premieres This Sunday In Lagos

First Bank of Nigeria Limited announces its lead sponsorship of the movie titled ‘Ayinla’, which is billed to premiere on Sunday, 13 June 2020.

The movie is suspense-driven, narrating the life of Ayinla Yusuf, popularly known as Ayinla Omowura (an Apala musician), his rise to fame, his identity, the depth of his craft and music, and the basis for his relevance after his tragic death forty years ago as a result of a stab from his manager, Bayewu, during a bar fight on the 6th of May, 1980 in Abeokuta.

Ayinla

Ayinla is directed by multiple award-winning and globally acclaimed Nigerian filmmaker and director, Tunde Kelani, and produced by Jadesola Osiberu.

According to Tunde Kelani, filmmaker and founder, Mainframe Opomulero Productions,

“the making of Ayinla allows us to throw a glance over our shoulders to our often-neglected intangible heritage. Nigeria is blessed with huge cultural diversity and locked away are thousands of stories we can share with a global audience. FirstBank’s partnership with us at this stage is not a mere coincidence, owing to its over hundred years of historical contribution in unlocking the huge potentials in Nigeria which can offer continental and global audiences”.

Ayinla
Tunde Kelani, filmmaker and founder, Mainframe Opomulero Productions | Brand Spur Nigeria

With the sponsorship of similar socio-cultural initiatives in the creative arts industry like Moremi, Makaliki, Oba Esugbayi stage drama, October 1st (a movie) and the Calabar Festival. The Bank’s sponsorship of ‘Ayinla’ affirms the Bank’s support for the development of arts in Nigeria under its First@arts initiative.

First@arts is FirstBank’s platform for consolidating all its efforts in the arts, supporting the entire value chain of the creative arts, providing much-needed financing and advisory support, showcasing and facilitating the successes of the industry, and enabling customers to explore and access the wealth of opportunities the creative industry has to offer.

Achieving these and a host of many others have been implemented through strategic partnerships with organizations like the British Council, Duke of Shomolu Productions, Live Theatre Lagos, Freedom Park, Terra Kulture, and the Cross Rivers State Government (Calabar Festival), amongst many others.

Ayinla appeals to a multifaceted audience that cuts across fans of highlife and afrobeat music, the youth, and the elite Yoruba demography. It features some of Nollywood’s favourite stars including Adedimeji Lateef who played the role of Ayinla Omowura, Kunle Afolayan, Bimbo Ademoye, Mr. Macaroni, Omowunmi Dada, Ade Laoye, Jumoke Otedola, and Bimbo Manuel.

Speaking on the movie, Jadesola Osiberu, Movie Producer & Founder, Greoh Studios said,

“Working with the great Tunde Kelani is something I have wanted to do for a long time, and I am so glad that we were able to do it on a project like Ayinla. This collaboration was an interesting experience, and I am glad everyone finally gets to see the film we made in the cinemas nationwide from 18 June 2021. I’d like to thank the management of First Bank of Nigeria Limited for choosing to come on this journey with us.”

Expressing her delight on the movie, Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, FirstBank said;

“For over 127 years, FirstBank has been at the forefront of nation-building; enabling Nigeria and Nigerians through resourceful partnerships to build the Nigerian creative industry value chain, especially the arts and entertainment sub-sectors. We remain proud of this sponsorship that creates an excellent platform to showcase Nigeria to the world as being part of a collective goal to continually keep dreams and hope alive; holding strong to our commitment to reignite cultural heritage.”

“Without a doubt, the movie industry remains part of the creative and entertainment industry value-chain across the globe and indeed a powerful channel to drive our heritage and culture, which resonates with our legacy of being woven into the fabric of society.”

According to research disclosed in PWC’s recent Entertainment & Media Outlook report, Nigeria’s entertainment is expected to rise from $4.46 billion in 2018 to a $10.5 billion market by the end of 2023. In addition, with this initiative and other sponsored event, FirstBank is committed to strengthening its contribution to the development of the entertainment industry in the country.

Euro 2020 Match Suspended As Christian Eriksen Collapses

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UEFA has postponed the game between Denmark and Finland at an ongoing European Championship (Euro 2020).

The decision was taken after Danish midfielder, Christian Eriksen, collapsed on the pitch.

Christian Eriksen collapsed on the pitch during the third game of the 16th European Championship game against Finland during the 45th minute of the first half.

The former Tottenham player who now plays for Inter Milan was trying to get the ball from a throw-in but collapsed before the ball could reach him.

Euro 2020 Match Suspended As Christian Eriksen Collapses-Brand Spur Nigeria
Euro 2020 Match Suspended As Christian Eriksen Collapses-Brand Spur Nigeria

At first, he could not move as the medical team rushed into the field to try to revive him.

There was a huge silence on the field as most thought he had passed but after some minutes, he was revived and the first half came to a close.

Following several minutes of on-field treatment, UEFA confirmed the match has been suspended.

“The UEFA EURO 2020 match in Copenhagen has been suspended due to a medical emergency,” a terse statement read.

The game ended 0-0 as none of the two sides have found the back of the net.

 

 

SMW Fashion Hit Massive Sales In First Month

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The management of SMW Fashion has announced that the fashion label has received over twenty-five thousand (25,000) orders of its various merchandise in its first month of business commencement in Nigeria.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of the brand, Mr. Philip Ikezahu, he said the requests for their products have been overwhelming and it’s still of great surprise that such sales can be pulled in the first month of business.

Recall that the Fashion brand which is a sister company to Soso Music Worldwide- a music production & recording company, earlier last month disclosed that the fashion outfit will be kicked-off with about 50,000 pilot merchandises ranging from luxury wears to shoes, pieces of jewelry, as well as other fashion accessories.

“Our target is the Nigerian Pop Culture. And fashion as you know it evolves every day; we promise to continue giving our esteemed customers top notch designs. The accelerated sales we have experienced in the last one month is an indication that we need to do more and with our team of creative innovators and designers, our customers are rest assured they will get only the best.” Ikezahu said.

While the Dubai-Based jeweler also spoke on Soso Music Worldwide, he disclosed that the music company is ready to unveil its two newly signed artiste by the end of June 2021. He said that the artistes are fired-up already and that the Nigerian music scene should be ready to witness talents like never before.

“Also, our talent management outfit is in the pipeline and will commence operation before the end of 2021, the actual goal is to fuse together Music, Fashion, and Talent management which will eventually showcase Nigeria to the world.” He added.

2022 Lexus NX: Designed, Engineered With The Future Of Luxury In Mind

Ushering in a new era of luxury, Lexus is embracing electrification, intuitive technology, performance, and design. The all-new 2022 Lexus NX delivers a long list of firsts, including the all-new Lexus Interface multimedia system designed with the North American market in mind.

With a lower center of gravity and stronger stance, the all-new NX embodies powerful design, intuitive innovation and boundless utility.  The most notable update is the introduction of Lexus Interface, the integrated multimedia and digital support on the optional 14-inch touchscreen display.

It offers available over the air updates, wireless charging and untethered smart phone connection to the user’s unique profile. This is paired with the introduction of standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, plus Blind Spot Monitor. Additionally, Safe Exit Assist and the innovative Digital Latch system are designed to make exiting the vehicle safely even more effortless.

“The all-new Lexus NX sets a new standard in the luxury crossover market with class-leading innovations in electrified powertrains, infotainment, driving dynamics, styling and safety,” said Vinay Shahani, Lexus vice president of marketing.

2022 Lexus NX: Designed, Engineered With The Future Of Luxury In Mind-Brand Spur Nigeria
2022 Lexus NX: Designed, Engineered With The Future Of Luxury In Mind-Brand Spur Nigeria

“The 2022 NX includes the most technological vehicle changes since we launched Lexus 32 years ago. With the all-new Lexus Interface multimedia system and a variety of customizable features, NX is an exciting first step in a series of 20 all-new or updated Lexus vehicles by 2025.”

Powerful Design for the Future

From the refined spindle grille to the new full-width blade taillamps and LEXUS rear badging, the all-new 2022 Lexus NX emits a powerful message to those approaching the luxury crossover. At the front, the updated grille pattern and frame create a more integrated feel to the body of the vehicle. Made up of tall U-shaped blocks, the spindle grille is designed for a three-dimensional effect and creates a sense of depth while expressing a strong impression. Framed on top by the L-shaped daytime running lights (DRL), the optional three-projector headlamps create balance with a more subdued impression.

In the rear, the Lexus logo has been redesigned to create an advanced and modern expression. The use of the L emblem has been replaced by a new, unified LEXUS logo located at the center of the vehicle. A full-width blade rear combination lamp (similar to the Lexus UX and IS). and an L-shaped lamp on the rear fender are separated to make the expression unique to the NX. The light bar lamps are constantly illuminated at night to function as a taillight and illuminate the rear brand signature.

Guests can select from a variety of fresh NX colors to suit their taste, including Redline, Cloudburst Gray and Grecian Water. For colors exclusive to F SPORT models, the palette includes Ultra White, Obsidian and Ultra Sonic Blue Mica 2.0.

Driver-Focused Cockpit Design

The NX’s driver-centered cockpit has been meticulously designed with a focus on connecting the driver to the vehicle. The 7-inch Multi Instrument Display (MID) and optional 10-inch Head Up Display (HUD), both NX firsts, are designed to convey vehicle information, alerts and updates, within the driver’s line of sight. The MID’s single meter layout is made more visible by a high -definition screen. Most driving-related functions are concentrated on the steering wheel to allow for intuitive operation while keeping the driver’s eyes on the road.

In the center stack, the standard 9.8-inch touchscreen puts an array of multimedia features within easy reach. The optional 14-inch touch screen, a first for NX, delivers an immersive multimedia experience. Dial controls remain for frequently used functions, like climate control and media volume. Comfort features, such as heated seat selection, are now more readily accessible. All enhancements combine to create a more user-friendly, digital in-vehicle experience.

Driving Performance – All-New NX 350 2.4 Turbo Engine

The new lower center of gravity and enhancements in vehicle rigidity allow for a higher horsepower 2.4 turbo gas engine on the NX 350. The new 8-speed transmission provides the gas-powered NX the feel of a performance vehicle with the higher perspective of a crossover utility vehicle. This is made possible by improvements to torsional rigidity through laser peening welding and the addition of high rigidity foam, both Lexus firsts. The twin hood lock, also a brand first, adds front lateral flexural rigidity and improves the aerodynamics of the vehicle.

The exciting turbo gas-powered engine boasts an estimated 275 horsepower and 317 lb. ft. of torque. Combined, these result in a 0-60 time of 6.8 seconds, a half-second quicker than the previous model.

Additionally, the NX 250 provides a naturally aspirated gas engine to round out the options for guests interested in a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with start/stop functionality. With an eight-speed transmission, this model is available in both FWD and AWD options. Delivering an estimated 203 horsepower and 184 lb. ft. of torque., combined results in 0-60 times of 8.2 seconds (FWD) and 8.6 seconds (AWD) respectively.

Performance and Range with the NX 450h+ Plug-In Hybrid

In a first for Lexus, the new plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) system brings Lexus Electrified to life through performance and the signature quietness of a PHEV model. The NX 450h+ has a manufacturer-estimated 36-mile range on electric power only, made possible by the newly developed, high-capacity lithium ion battery. The system achieves the EV output equivalent to a 2.0-liter engine. When combined with the newly developed hybrid transaxle, a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivers on the performance luxury guests are seeking with an estimated 6.0 second 0-60 time.

2022 Lexus NX: Designed, Engineered With The Future Of Luxury In Mind-Brand Spur Nigeria
2022 Lexus NX: Designed, Engineered With The Future Of Luxury In Mind-Brand Spur Nigeria

A high-output, high-efficiency system designed to reduce power loss when converting from AC power to DC power, results in shorter charging times. Using the maximum charging current of 240V, the Lexus NX plug-in hybrid can be fully charged in approximately two-and a-half hours when equipped with the optional 6.6 kW Expedited Onboard Charger. With the standard 3.3 kW on board charger, charge time goes up slightly to four-and-a-half hours.

The NX450h+ employs an electronically controlled, full-time AWD system for a confident, sporty driving experience. Optimizing front and rear torque distribution according to the driving conditions, the driver can control the vehicle as intended. In turns, the NX AWD provides exhilarating yet elegant control for normal to aggressive driving styles.

Predictive Efficient Drive couples with the navigation system, learns driving habits, predicts the expected roadway ahead and analyzes real-time traffic reports to optimize charging and discharging of the hybrid battery. The more miles the NX is driven, the more data is gathered to help optimize fuel consumption.  The system also uses accumulated knowledge about a driver’s behavior to predict when and where the vehicle is likely to slow down or stop. For example, when the NX approaches a location where the driver has slowed or stopped in the past, and the driver releases the accelerator pedal, Predictive Efficient Drive increases regenerative braking, allowing more efficient energy to be recovered and recharged into the hybrid battery.

Hybrid Combines Performance and Fuel Economy

With the all-new Lexus NX 350h, guests can have both great performance and fuel economy. With a combined 239 horsepower (a 20 percent increase over the current model) and impressive manufacturer estimated 36 MPG (an increase of 6 MPG over the current model), the NX hybrid brings a powerful performance that illustrates the brand’s hybrid leadership. Guests will also notice the quicker 0-60 time with 1.5 seconds shaved off the time from prior generations at 7.2 seconds.

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system pairs the D4-S fuel injection 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance. Instead of transfer gears and a driveshaft to the rear wheels, the AWD system employs a second, independent electric motor to drive the rear wheels when it detects it is needed to help maintain optimal traction.

Lexus Interface: An All-New Elegant, Intuitive and Desired Connected Multimedia System

The all-new, North American-developed Lexus Interface multimedia system allows the NX to seamlessly integrate and navigate life’s twists and turns. The eye-catching standard 9.8-inch touchscreen provides intuitive technology at the occupants’ fingertips. The screen’s new Human Machine Interface (HMI) enhances user interaction through sight, touch and voice, while balancing accessibility needs. An optional 14-inch touchscreen maximizes the experience with integrated automatic climate control functions.

Lexus Interface also incorporates a new Virtual Assistant developed with a human-centered approach. The Virtual Assistant is intended to be the primary way guests interact with the new multimedia system. Designed with dual microphones, enhanced noise-cancellation, seat detection and speaker location capabilities, the system enables a voice-first approach allowing front seat occupants an expanded and interactive experience to access navigation, media, phone and certain vehicle settings such as climate control and window opening/closing.

With the ubiquitous use of smart phones, an intuitive and simple guest experience is now possible with Lexus Interface.   With the Lexus Interface User Profile feature, the driver’s personalized settings and experience can be retained in the cloud and accessible on the go in other Lexus Interface equipped vehicles. Once a profile is created in the Lexus App, guests can use a Bluetooth handheld device, smart key or manual login to access it.

An extension of the User Profile feature, Digital Key allows guests the ability to lock/unlock and start/stop their vehicle through their smartphone when within Bluetooth proximity. The Digital Key can be shared with up to seven additional guests, creating a seamless experience for users registered on the Lexus App.

The Lexus Interface native navigation system was designed with ease of use and functional beauty in mind. Featuring 100 percent cloud capability and integrated Google POI data, the system allows faster and more accurate directions and mapping. Over-the-air (OTA) updates offer real-time updates for mapping, and enriched media experiences. The native navigation is also available to occupants with or without a network connection. Offline mode detects when the vehicle is near or entering an area with low connectivity and downloads applicable maps and services in advance.

For 2022, the Lexus NX also features standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Guests can charge and stream wirelessly with the new optional wireless charger which can be stowed away to maximize storage.

Enhanced Safety with All Passengers in Mind: Lexus Safety System+ 3.0

The all-new NX will come equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. for additional peace of mind in certain scenarios including:

  • Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist – helps support collision avoidance within the lane by providing gentle braking and steering operation.
  • Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking – designed to provide a warning and automatic braking if the driver turns left in front of an oncoming vehicle.
  • Right/Left Turn Oncoming Pedestrian Detection/Braking designed to provide a warning and automatic braking if a driver turns left or right in front of an oncoming pedestrian or cyclist.
  • Oncoming Vehicle Detection added to the Pre-Collision System – designed to alert the driver, and, potentially activate automatic emergency braking to help avoid a frontal collision.
  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management – maintains a cruising speed in alignment with the flow of traffic while managing speed on curves.

The following will be added to the current Lexus Safety System features for NX:

  • Road Sign Assist  displays select road sign information in the instrument panel.
  • Pre-collision System – provides the potential to detect a preceding vehicle, pedestrian or cyclist in low-light situations.
  • Lane Assistance – designed to provide an audible alert if an inadvertent lane departure is detected.
  • Intelligent High Beam provides greater visibility for drivers with added illumination when the road ahead is clear, then temporarily switches to low beams when it detects the headlamps or taillamps of vehicles ahead.
  • Road Sign Assist – uses a built-in camera to help provide road sign information in the instrument panel or even on the available Head-Up Display. The system can also alert the driver of certain detected signs that otherwise might have been missed.

The all-new Digital Latch system enables doors to open smoothly at the touch of a button when entering or exiting the vehicle. And by scanning the environment, Safe Exit Assist alerts the driver and passengers to avoid the risk of accidental contact with vehicles and cyclists, helping ensure safe openings and closings. The new, optional Digital Mirror provides a clear view of obstacles behind the vehicle.

Illuminating the Way:  Inside and Out

The 2022 NX delivers on the brand’s well-known interior cabin noise reduction with additional updates made to reduce road noise and exterior distractions. Inside, drivers can create an oasis with nature-inspired Thematic Ambient Illumination, an optional feature that bathes the NX interior in a choice of 14 themes and 64 colors. Each has been carefully selected to express ephemeral emotions and evoke nature-inspired feelings, with themes including Rain Forest, Waterfall, and Sunset.

Newly designed standard heated front seats and optional heated rear seats add comfort throughout the cabin. Guests will also notice increased head and legroom with the adoption of the Lexus GA-K platform. Additional storage space has been added in the rear cargo area.

Interior seat and console colors include Black, Black with Rich Cream, Palomino, and Rioja Red NuLuxe. All ornamentation has been redesigned. The Stippled Black on the entry model exudes a carefully arranged dot pattern with varying density to create a sense of front-rear movement.   Black Open Pore wood adds an opulent touch to the Luxury model. Newly developed Black Prism, an advanced-looking Piano Black texture, features a three-dimensional fractal that is gradually carved more densely toward the rear so that it changes its expression with transitions of sunlight, creating a high-tech feel.

In a first for the NX, the panoramic moonroof gives both the front and rear passengers the ability to see the sky with just the push of a button. Its smooth gliding opening and closing motion provides easy stargazing or additional airflow on a sunny day.

F SPORT Handling: Performance and Style

Available with both the turbo and PHEV powertrains, the F SPORT Handing model turns up the driving dynamics with a sporty feel that is amplified by the Active Variable Suspension (AVS), and front and rear performance dampers.  Exclusive to the F SPORT family, Dark Graphite Aluminum ornamentation, a unique meter, sport seats, a newly developed steering wheel, and aluminum pedals and scuff plates all set it apart.  With perforated interior trim in Black and Circuit Red NuLuxe, the sport-inspired materials are integrated on the seats, steering wheel and center console. The F SPORT Handling model can add the Luxury package, which brings the 14-inch touchscreen, unique headlamps and 64-color interior illumination.

A dedicated F SPORT grille and front/rear bumpers make a bold first impression. The 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels are framed by color-key overfenders increase curb appeal and add to the sporty appearance. Topped with black roof rails and daylight opening garnishes (DLO), exclusive F SPORT colors include Ultra White, Obsidian and Ultrasonic Blue 2.0.

The all-new 2022 NX will start production in the third quarter of 2021. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Saudi Foreign Ministry Launches E-service To Extend Visitor Visa Validity

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Saudi ministries have launched an e-service that allows visitors coming to the Kingdom to extend the validity of their unused or expired visitor visas due to a travel ban imposed by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

The Kingdom will allow a cost-free extension, granted on the directives of King Salman, for those who were suspended from entry to 20 countries previously announced in February.

The initiative launched by the Saudi foreign and interior ministries and the General Directorate of Passports would allow the extension of visas until July 31, 2021.

Travelers who wish to extend their visitor visa can head to the ministry’s e-platform to perform the necessary extension.