Hi there! Simon Zaku here, founder and CEO, IbiFoundry Limited. Today, we’re diving into a story close to my heart—the untold history of the Jukun people. As a proud Jukun, born in Ibi, Taraba State, I’ve always felt a deep connection to our rich history and vibrant culture. The Untold History of the Jukun People: A Legacy of Nigerian Strength and Culture Yet, much of our story remains untold to the world. So, I’m here to change that. Let’s uncover the roots, resilience, and cultural beauty of the Jukun people—a tale that spans centuries and highlights a heritage worth celebrating. Who Am I? Simon Zaku Taki, A Jukun by Birth, By Heart Who Be Jukun People? You don ever hear of Jukun before? If you never hear, no wahala. Today, I go open your eyes to some deep things about Jukun traditions, their unique names, and some FAQs wey go make you sabi dem well. Me, I no just dey write this from nowhere. I be Jukun myself, from Ibi, Taraba State. So, this na my people, my roots, and my culture. Jukun people no too dey popular for mainstream media, but dem get rich history wey many never even scratch surface. So, make we dig in. My name is Simon Zaku Taki, and I’m a proud Jukun. I was born in Jalingo, the heart of Taraba State, where my journey into life and culture began. Who Am I? Simon Zaku Taki, A Jukun by Birth, By Heart Growing up, my experiences weren’t confined to just one place. My childhood was shaped by the rich and diverse communities of Jalingo, Wukari, and Ibi, where I spent most of my formative years. My primary education began at New Era Primary School in Jalingo, a place where I learned foundational lessons that still guide me today. But school wasn’t the only thing that defined my early days. Every holiday, my family and I would travel to Ibi, Wukari, or Dampar, immersing ourselves in the vibrant traditions, landscapes, and people of these towns. These holiday trips weren’t just a change of scenery; they were a window into the essence of Jukun life, helping me understand and cherish the culture that flows through my veins. As someone who has lived and experienced life across these towns, I’ve grown with a deep sense of connection to my roots. This connection fuels my passion for sharing the untold stories of the Jukun people—our struggles, triumphs, and rich heritage, which continue to inspire us today. It’s this passion that gave birth to IbiFoundry, a platform where we can celebrate, preserve, and share stories that matter—stories that not only showcase our culture but also inspire others around the world to explore the beauty of Nigeria and Africa. Let’s dive deeper into the untold history of the Jukun people—a history that resonates with pride, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future. Who Are the Jukun People? The Jukun people are one of Nigeria’s oldest ethnic groups, primarily located in Taraba, Benue, and parts of Nasarawa and Adamawa States. Their historical capital, Kwararafa, was a major political and military power in the precolonial Sahel, influencing much of northern Nigeria. Jukun tradition connects them to the Middle Niger Valley, and oral histories trace their origins to a legendary ancestor, Aku Uka, regarded as both a spiritual and political leader. Today, the title "Aku Uka" still exists, representing the paramount ruler of the Jukun people in Wukari. The Rise of the Kwararafa Kingdom At the height of its power, the Kwararafa Kingdom was one of the most formidable empires in precolonial West Africa. Between the 14th and 17th centuries, the Jukun and their allies held sway over vast territories, from modern-day Cameroon to the Hausa states of northern Nigeria. The kingdom was known for its military prowess, regularly clashing with the Bornu Empire and even launching daring raids into Kano and Zaria. However, unlike many conquerors, the Jukun emphasized cultural integration, forging alliances and fostering trade. Jukun Culture and Traditions The Jukun are deeply spiritual, with their traditional religion centered around ancestral worship and the veneration of Chido, the supreme deity. Festivals like Puje and Kuva are celebrated to honor their gods, ancestors, and the changing seasons. These ceremonies are marked by elaborate dances, masquerades, and the use of sacred objects. The Jukun language, part of the Benue-Congo family, reflects their deep connection to their environment and history. Despite modern influences, the language is preserved through oral storytelling, songs, and proverbs. Jukun people na one of the ancient tribes for Nigeria. E get strong belief say dem be descendants of the famous Kwararafa Kingdom, wey rule large part of Northern Nigeria centuries ago. Today, dem dey mainly for Taraba, Benue, and parts of Nasarawa, Adamawa, and even Cameroon. 1. Traditional Leadership System Jukun people respect hierarchy well well. Their traditional ruler na Aku Uka, wey dey based for Wukari, Taraba State. This title no be small thing—e be like oba, emir, or king for other places. The Aku Uka dey hold spiritual and political power over Jukun land. 2. Festivals and Spiritual Beliefs Jukun people get strong traditional religious beliefs. Dem believe in supreme being (Chido or Aondo) and respect ancestors well. One big festival wey dem dey do na Puje festival, wey be celebration of culture, tradition, and ancestral spirits. 3. Marriage and Family Life For Jukun land, marriage na serious matter. Before man go fit marry woman, e go do proper introduction, pay bride price, and do traditional rites. The family system dey strong, and polygamy no too be big deal. 4. Art, Music, and Dance Jukun people sabi express themselves through art, especially sculpture and body painting. Dem get unique dance styles, including war dances and masquerade performances wey dey shake ground during big events. Key Aspects of Jukun Culture: Agriculture: The Jukun have historically thrived as farmers, cultivating millet, guinea corn, and yams. Art and Craftsmanship: Their pottery, weaving, and wood carvings are renowned for their intricate designs and cultural symbolism. Family Structure: Kinship remains central, with elders holding significant influence in decision-making and conflict resolution. Challenges and the Jukun Today Despite their rich history, the Jukun people face modern challenges, including conflicts with neighboring communities, political marginalization, and the erosion of their traditional practices. Efforts to document and celebrate Jukun culture are crucial to preserving their identity. Today, Jukun leaders, historians, and youth groups are working tirelessly to revive their heritage. This includes promoting Jukun art, language, and historical landmarks to both local and global audiences. Jukun Names and Their Meanings Jukun names dey always get deep meaning. E fit reflect spirituality, history, nature, or personal destiny. Below na some common Jukun names and wetin dem mean: Aondohemba – "God's gift" Nyamkyume – "Blessings from above" Terhemba – "God has given" Shagbaor – "Light of the people" Adakole – "Father’s wealth" Torkuma – "Born at night" Iorlaha – "People of wealth" Atume – "God is watching" Ikyoive – "God’s power is mighty" Yaji – "Strong warrior" Shidoh-yiku – "God is king" Shidoh-fakhim – "God has answered my prayers" Apaiku – "Human being is king" Asoh-shidoh – "God's gift" Tabyeh – "Throw it away" Wani – "Tired of worshipping" Shidoh-yini – "There is God" Dochu-fazyi – "A listening ear" Ngbede – "Thank God" Yikhe/Yipe – "Female twins" Jukun names dey tell story of where person come from and wetin e stand for. If you meet Jukun person, ask am wetin im name mean, e go surprise you. Frequently Asked Questions About Jukun People 1. Which state Jukun people dey mostly? Jukun people dey mostly for Taraba State, but you go still see dem for Benue, Adamawa, Nasarawa, and some parts of Cameroon. 2. Jukun na Hausa or Fulani? No o! Jukun no be Hausa or Fulani. Dem be separate ethnic group with their own language, culture, and traditions. 3. Wetin be Jukun traditional food? Dem like foods like tuwo (swallow) with soup like kunun gyada (groundnut soup) or beniseed soup. Some Jukun communities also like roasted fish and special local drinks. 4. Jukun people dey speak wetin language? Jukun people dey speak different dialects under the Jukunoid language family. Some of dem sabi Hausa, Tiv, or English, but their original language na Jukun. 5. E get connection between Jukun and Kwararafa Kingdom? Yes, Jukun people be direct descendants of Kwararafa Kingdom, one of the most powerful empires wey rule Northern Nigeria in the past. 6. How person fit join Jukun festival? If you wan experience Jukun culture, visit Taraba during Puje Festival. E dey happen once in a while and e be big celebration. Na so e be, my people! Jukun culture na something wey no too dey mainstream, but e get deep meaning and rich history. If you sabi Jukun person, greet am well because we be people of honor. I hope say you don learn something today. Conclusion - Tell Us Your Nigerian Story I hope this article inspires you to learn more about the beauty of Nigeria’s diverse cultures. To stay connected, follow us (@ibifoundry) on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram. Let’s keep these conversations alive—drop a comment below if you enjoyed this piece or have insights to share about Jukun history. Looking for more inspiring Nigerian stories? Sign up for our IbiFoundry Newsletter and be the first to explore more untold tales and guest posts like this one. Together, we’re building a platform that celebrates the best of Nigeria and Africa! Let’s hear your thoughts—what’s your favorite part of Jukun history? Comment below and let’s discuss!

Is it good to use Mailchimp for email marketing today? In this IbiFoundry Academy review, I walk you through, Mailchimp, an email marketing and management service provider for businesses. Mailchimp offers a great user interface, sterling features, and tracking that would greatly boost your sales through email marketing. Mailchimp Review: Mailchimp Email Software Pricing, Feature, Pros & Cons! If you want to integrate effective email marketing into your startup, blog, or business, consider Mailchimp. TABLE OF CONTENT (Mailchimp Review: Mailchimp Email Software Pricing, Feature, Pros & Cons!): What is an Email Marketing Software? Some Great Alternatives of Mailchimp What is Mailchimp Email Marketing Software? Is Mailchimp Free? Mailchimp Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons How to Design Website Sign-up Forms with Mailchimp in Minutes Creating & Sending Effective Emails in Mailchimp How to Send 'Regular' Emails in Mailchimp Does Mailchimp Have Email Templates? Mailchimp Email Automation Mailchimp Pricing: How Much Does it Cost to Use Mailchimp? Mailchimp Customer Support: Mailchimp Support Options Pros of Using Mailchimp for Email Marketing Cons of Using Mailchimp My Final Review on Mailchimp Review What is an Email Marketing Software? An email marketing software is a service-based company that allows users (marketers, businesses, brands) to send, manage, and track email marketing campaigns on a dashboard. There are loads of email marketing software on the internet due to differences/preferences in features, pricing, services, and functions. Some MailChimp Alternatives Some great alternatives to Mailchimp are: Wix Email marketing. Omnisend. Drip Moosend. Constant Contact. Sendinblue. HubSpot. Mailerlite. GetResponse. ConvertKit. ActiveCampaign. AWeber. Mailjet. Mailpoet. Sender. Email marketing is one the most effective tools for marketing - ahead of traditional marketing, and social media. What better way to reach your audience than using emails? What is Mailchimp Email Marketing Software? What is Mailchimp software used for today? Mailchimp is an email marketing service provider or tool that offers users email marketing features. Mailchimp sends email marketing campaigns that promote businesses, products, and services to email subscribers (target audience). Mailchimp allows users to create simple landing pages. Is Mailchimp Email Marketing App Free? At this moment, Mailchimp is great and free for up to 1000 email subscribers. Mailchimp's old version had way more free features than users enjoy today. For example, years back both free and paid Mailchimp users could create as many automation campaigns as possible. Today, users can only create a few automation in Mailchimp. Only the premium users get to enjoy most of the benefits but either way, it's still one of the best free email marketing tools for beginners, intermediaries, and even experts. Simon Zaku's Mailchimp Dashboard Mailchimp Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons: What are the features included in Mailchimp? Mailchimp Features: Email templates Email automation Leads CRM Landing pages Marketing automation: Autoresponders Recover Abandoned Carts Feedback Google Remarketing ads E-commerce integration Mailchimp's Web-page Builder Mailchimp's Responsive Editor Marketing Automation & Autoresponders: What are Mailchimp email marketing automation and autoresponders? Mailchimp Automation Dashboard from my Account These features allow users to send a sequence of emails automatically, based on the options they make. This feature helps reach new contacts as soon as they sign up and set emails to be sent, such as sending an email the day after they join your list. Also, you could set up auto-responses for events such as contacts’ birthdays and a message for festive seasons. Recover Abandoned Carts: What are Mailchimp's Abandoned Cart features? This is one of the most impressive features of Mailchimp automation. It could send out email reminders to customers who have left their cart, so they could complete their purchase. Feedback: Mailchimp's automation allows some basic feedback, particularly when your contacts have made a purchase. You could get the feedback by sending a quick survey, asking for a review, or offering helpful advice that would help you serve them better. Again, you can set the time for the feedback, for instance, 10 days after purchase. Google Remarketing ads: This software would create Google remarketing ads automatically so your campaigns can reach users as they continue to surf the web. The idea here is that some visitors would not buy your product on the first visit, but as you retarget and provide extra incentives, there is a higher chance of making purchases. Landing Page Builder: Can you build landing pages with Mailchimp? With Mailchimp, you can create as many landing pages as you want. The built-in landing page builder can be used on every plan. There are two types of landing page builders: you use one to build your email list and the other for product promotions. E-commerce Integration: Does Mailchimp offer e-commerce integration? You can efficiently integrate the WooCommerce store with Mailchimp. You synchronize all of your available WooCommerce products, orders, and customers. And any alteration you make in the future will surely be reflected in Mailchimp. Keep track of your campaign performance by evaluating your campaign's exact revenue. To move a step further, the tracking feature would indicate the campaign your visitor was coming from before making a purchase. Lists are segments of your contacts, and this software allows an unlimited number of lists. Every month you can send up to 5,000 emails. However, when it comes to autoresponders and automatic marketing, the free account is limited from using the automation features. Mailchimp's Web-Pages Builder: Can you build landing pages on Mailchimp? Mailchimp Website Builder It is a website builder and allows you to create your website without writing or learning a single line of code. There are several templates and email layouts. You can develop web pages and use the colour palettes and themes to customize them to meet your needs. The web editor allows users to make several adjustments, and alter texts, colours, or any content block on a webpage you built with the Mailchimp website builder. Mailchimp's Responsive Editor: As you know, sending marketing emails has progressed beyond just typing texts or email copy and hitting the “send” button. Mailchimp has two types of editors; the standard editor, which allows you to use only their predefined content blocks. The other is the custom code editor, and for this, you can build your HTML template. You can add and remove content blocks, replicate seamlessly, and hide other content within a content block. Here are some of the distinct characteristics of Mailchimp Editor: Speedy load time The drag-and-drop functionality CSS In-liner support by default Text version creation along with HTML template Mailchimp's Geolocation: Mailchimp email marketing geolocation and geo-targeting feature: Mailchimp allows you to segment your contact list based on their locations and enables localizing the market requirements. The method used by this platform is not to get the exact physical location of the recipient but to use their IP addresses. However, when the recipients use a VPN, it affects the accuracy of geotargeting. How to Design Website Sign-up Forms with Mailchimp in Minutes How do I create a Mailchimp signup form? You can create signup forms in Mailchimp, and a form builder is a handy tool for building, sharing, and translating your goals into a comprehensible form. The steps in creating a signup form in Mailchimp: The first and easiest step is to "Build from Scratch": Mailchimp offers a bunch of signup form templates you can use but the easiest way to start is by using a free template and building one that fits your unique brand. There are three different tabs on Mailchimp's form builder – Design It, Translate It, and Build It. The Build It tab allows users to add content to forms and structure it to meet any requirements. Users can also select audiences and customize with ease. Mailchimp Pop-up form builder dashboard The next step to design a newsletters signup form in Mailchimp is the Design Tab. On the Design It tab, users can choose the fonts, colours, and graphics that suit their form and response emails. Any alterations you make will be adapted by subsequent pages to ensure consistency. Next, we have the 'Translate It' Tab. For the Translate It tab, users can translate any form to different languages, to appeal to the global market. Creating & Sending Effective Emails in Mailchimp Sending emails to subscribers is the key to effective email marketing, and this software allows you to create and send attractive emails swiftly. All emails in Mailchimp are handled under “Campaigns”. As soon as you initiate a new campaign, you have some options, which are: How to Send 'Regular' Emails in Mailchimp: What are Regular Emails in Mailchimp? This is the standard one-off email blast. To send a regular email campaign in Mailchimp, create the email by selecting any template and customize it to your taste. To initiate your Regular email in Mailchimp, kickstart by assigning a campaign name, then select the segment of the list you wish to send to. Under this campaign, fill in the email subject line, sender name, and email. Does Mailchimp Have Email Templates? Yes, Mailchimp has over 50 templates that are responsive to modern design. After choosing your template, you can edit and make adjustments to fit your brand or business. Next, the visual editor allows users to customize the email with ease. You can then preview your emails, and you can edit any element by clicking on it and making the adjustment. Finally, you have to select when the email will be sent. Mailchimp Plain text: Regular emails typically have no images or formatting. Mostly text only. Mailchimp A/B test: You can create different emails with different versions. One major difference between the A/B test campaign and the regular campaign is that you would be asked to select the element you would like to split the test from the start. Some of the elements you could split-test are subject lines and email content, among others. You have some options when you want to split-test: the subject line, form name, content, and send time. Mailchimp Email Automation: Sometime back, most of Mailchimp's automation features used to be available for free users. Some of my old automation campaigns in my Mailchimp account This Mailchimp feature allows users to create emails that would be sent in response to specific events and you can also create effective autoresponders. Mailchimp Pricing: How Much Does it Cost to Use Mailchimp? How much does standard Mailchimp cost today? Mailchimp Offers a Free Plan. You can add up to 500 subscribers for the free plan and send up to 1,000 emails every month. That is great for starters looking to try a top-notch email marketing service provider like Mailchimp. Mailchimp Paid Plans The Paid Plans: Mailchimp Paid Plans 1. Mailchimp Essentials Pricing Plan ($6.50 Per Month): This is the least expensive Mailchimp plan. Features of the Essentials plan. Everything included in the Essentials Mailchimp plan: There are up to 3 audiences Up to 3 users You can have up to 50,000 contacts, but the price goes up based on the subscriber count A/B testing 24/7 email support This plan does not include an email autoresponder for automation. 2. Mailchimp Standard Pricing Plan ($10 Per Month): This is the plan every business owner would want to subscribe to, and it is on par with several email marketing service providers’ pricing plans. Features of the Mailchimp Standard Plan: Everything included in the Essential plan Delivery by time zone Email autoresponders Maximum of 5 audiences Up to 5 users Custom templates Custom audience generation Send time optimization The Standard Mailchimp plan contains features that most brands require to increase conversion and boost sales. 3. Mailchimp’s Premium Pricing Plan ($175 Per Month): This plan includes all the Mailchimp features for large businesses or organizations. The benefits you get from this Mailchimp plan: Unlimited Contacts Unlimited Emails Monthly Unlimited Live Chat Support Custom branding Multirative testing Unlimited Live Email Support Comparative Reports Phone support Advanced Segmentation Features Some Distinct Features of the Mailchimp Premium Plan Include: Delivery by Time Zone: There are times allotted by users to attend to emails, such as during lunch, or early hours of the office time. Therefore, this paid plan lets you set an email delivery time based on the different time zones. This action would lead to the generation of more conversions and interactions. Multivariate Testing: This is a deep level of split testing, and it works better on large lists. Demographics: Some of the functionalities in Mailchimp can estimate the age and gender of your subscribers. This segmentation allows you to send more specific and higher-performing emails to users. For the current updated pricing plans of Mailchimp, please visit the official Mailchimp pricing page. Mailchimp Customer Support: Mailchimp Support Options How do you complain to Mailchimp? Mailchimp Customer Support: Mailchimp Support Options I have been a Mailchimp user for more than 5 years now and I can confirm that Mailchimp support is top-notch. You get speedy responses, are friendly, and are fast. However, due to its exponential growth over the years, Mailchimp does not offer unlimited support for free accounts. Mailchimp incorporated the ‘freemium’ as an integral part of their business model. But with a free account, you have up to 30 days of free email support which isn't bad. Unlimited support is for subscribers on the paid version. However, their knowledge base contains several articles, user guides, and video tutorials to help every user out. Pros of Using Mailchimp for Email Marketing: What are the advantages and Pros of using Mailchimp for email marketing today? Easy to use, and has all the necessary features Free to start with A powerful slew of automation options The free plan is amazing Easy to import subscribers A/B and multivariate testing are available Cons of Using Mailchimp: What are the disadvantages or Cons of using Mailchimp Email Service Provider? Mailchimp is a generic email marketing software It can get expensive as your list grows Signup forms are not too attractive The landing page design is not so responsive or visually appealing. Final Review on Mailchimp Reviews Is Mailchimp email marketing software still worth it today? Email marketing is at the centre of any successful online business, and Mailchimp is a good email marketing service provider that you should consider. The drag-and-drop email builder is always an exciting software to work with. Why Should You Use Mailchimp? Here are Some More Benefits & Pros of Using Mailchimp: Mailchimp's User Experience is Exceptionally Good Mailchimp's Forever Free Plan Custom-Designed Forms Detailed Reports and Analytics Mailchimp is Very Easy to Use From my experience, Mailchimp was designed for businesses, marketers, and brands. Mailchimp would allow non-techie persons, businesses, and marketers to send professional-looking emails. This service provider was launched in 2001, but I just keep seeing new updates, designs, and better features to make the user interface more friendly and clearer. Now even integrating AI. What do you think about this Mailchimp review? What email marketing tools do you use or plan to use?

Hi everyone, Simon Zaku here, founder of ibifoundry.com.ng. I’m incredibly excited to share one of our very first guest articles, and it’s truly something special. This piece comes from Love Samuel Olufemi, a remarkable female builder breaking barriers in Nigeria’s construction industry. Love’s passion for sustainable building practices and her journey as a woman in a male-dominated field is nothing short of inspiring. She’s a trailblazer, championing eco-friendly construction methods while advocating for diversity and gender inclusion in the industry. Without further ado, I’ll let Love take it from here. Dive into her compelling story, and let’s celebrate the impact women like her are making in Nigeria and beyond. Over to you, Love! --------- Nigerian Women In Construction: Love Samuel’s Journey in Nigeria's Building Industry My Journey in the Nigerian Building Industry (by Love Samuel) My Journey in the Nigerian Building Industry (by Love Samuel) Let me tell you a story; At just nine years old, I dreamed of building homes. Like many Nigerian children, I played with sand houses and crafted dollhouses from cardboard, imagining a future where I could bring structures to life. Little did I know that life had a different, even more challenging, path in store for me. My name is Love Samuel, and I am from Taraba State, I want to talk about my experiences as a woman in construction. “Leave construction, go back to the Kitchen” Today, as a female builder in Nigeria's construction industry, I’ve faced bias and broken barriers, but the journey has been one of resilience and purpose. My initial dream was to become an architect, a career that felt natural given my love for drawing. My Journey: From Dreams to Building Reality My initial dream was to become an architect, a career that felt natural given my love for drawing. However, as often happens in Nigeria, I was placed on a different path. Instead of designing buildings, I learned to construct them. I studied Building at the University of Jos, Plateau State, and embarked on a six-year educational journey that would shape my career as a female builder in an industry dominated by men. This field demanded more than technical skills—it required resilience. As a woman, I have had to prove my worth repeatedly, often being underestimated or outright dismissed. I’ve been told to “go back to the kitchen,” but these experiences only fueled my determination to thrive and pave the way for other women in construction. I’ve been told to “go back to the kitchen,” but these experiences only fueled my determination to thrive and pave the way for other women in construction. Breaking Stereotypes: Challenges Women Face in Construction The construction industry in Nigeria is a tough arena, especially for women. From securing contracts to gaining respect on construction sites, biases often cast a shadow over our capabilities. I’ve faced artisans who doubted my ideas and clients hesitant to trust my expertise. But change is happening! Breaking Stereotypes: Challenges Women Face in Construction More women are stepping into this space as engineers, architects, project managers, and builders, proving that diversity enhances innovation. The industry benefits immensely when different perspectives come together to solve problems and deliver better results. Sustainable Construction: The Future of Nigeria’s Building Industry One of my biggest passions is sustainability. Nigeria is ripe for a green construction revolution, and I’m committed to integrating eco-friendly materials into our building practices. Materials like bamboo, clay, and recycled steel not only reduce environmental impact but are also locally sourced and cost-effective. By promoting sustainable practices, we can reduce our carbon footprint and build durable, energy-efficient structures. This approach benefits the environment and addresses Nigeria's need for affordable housing solutions. The future of construction lies in embracing these methods, and I’m determined to lead by example. Empowering the Next Generation of Female Builders Together, we can build a better future—for Nigeria, for women, and the planet. As more women enter the construction industry, it’s clear that there’s room for everyone to excel. My goal is to inspire young girls to pursue careers in building and design. Through mentorship and advocacy, I aim to break down barriers and show that women can lead in construction and beyond. By fostering gender diversity and embracing sustainability, we can create an industry that values creativity, skill, and environmental responsibility. Together, we can build a better future—for Nigeria, for women, and the planet. Conclusion - A Win for the Nigerian (& International) Construction Industry Together, we can build a better future—for Nigeria, for women, and the planet. Love Samuel on site The construction industry in Nigeria is evolving, and women are at the forefront of this transformation. My journey, though challenging, has been deeply rewarding, and I’m excited about what lies ahead. Love Samuel (Professional Builder) By empowering women and promoting sustainable practices, we can reshape the industry and make it more inclusive and environmentally conscious. Would you like to share your thoughts or experiences? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you! If you’re inspired by this article or want more stories celebrating women in construction and technology, follow me on LinkedIn here or Instagram here. Additionally, IbiFoundry is dedicated to showcasing impactful stories like this one. Join us at ibifoundry.com.ng to read more guest posts, support women in tech and construction, and stay updated on the latest industry insights. We’re building a community, and we’d love for you to be part of it!

In this Sprout Social review, we look at the ins and outs of Sproutsocial. What is Discussed in this Review: What is Sprout Social? Main features of Sprout Social. Pros and Cons of using Sprout Social, Sprout Social pricing. Sprout Social FAQs. The Best Sprout Social Review What is Sprout Social? What is Sprout Social? Sprout Social is a social media management tool designed to help businesses manage all of their social media and social media marketing efforts with ease. The Sprout Social is a powerful solution for social media managers and brands looking to improve their social media marketing using an all-in-one social media management platform. This tool unlocks the full potential of social marketing and helps businesses transform an entire marketing strategy. And every other area or section of your business or organization. Sprout Social helps businesses attract customers and impact their audience. This platform's unified social media management platform enables brands and teams to extract real business value that strengthens their overall market position and generates leads and revenue. Try Sprout Social App Features of Sprout Social. What are some features of Sprout Social? Sprout Social Features Engagements, Publishing, Analytics, Premium, Analytics, Social listening, Influencer marketing, Employee advocacy, AI and automation, Integration, Data and security Sprout Social Engagements Feature. With this Sprout Social feature, users can scale customer care and streamline their entire marketing processes. Users can manage community platforms like groups, communities, forums, etc. Sprout Social Publishing This Sprout Social feature allows users to plan, create, manage, and publish social media content and run social media campaigns easily. Sprout Social Analytics The next Sprout Social feature is Premium Analytics. This feature is under Premium Solutions. This lets marketers prove their social media ROI or return on investment with detailed data and customized or customizable reports. Sprout Social's Social Listening Feature With Sprout Social's social listening feature, you get what most social media management tools do not have. I love this feature because not many social media management tools offer social listening. Users can uncover new trends, actionable social media insights, etc, from mentions, conversations, and content, on different social media networks. Users can set social listening for specific conversations (your brand name or products). Sprout provides users with actionable insights on how to use this to grow your brand. Sprout Social's Influencer Marketing Feature. The influencer marketing feature in Sprout Social allows subscribers to create and manage influencer marketing partnerships or campaigns with social media influencers or content creators. Sprout's Employee Advocacy This Sprout Social feature is powerful because brands can easily grow and increase social media reach. You can do this by empowering or getting your employees to participate as (or become) brand advocates for your business. Sprout Social's AI and Automation Feature Sprout Social AI and automation help brands get more creative and implement strategic thinking that improves their brands on social media. Sprout's AI automation inherits or takes your manual work, let's say in social publishing, planning social listening, or analytics so that your team can also prioritize the decision-making. Professional Services The next thing is the professional services you can get from Sprout Social which includes brand social management, social media management services, and more. The same goes for the Sprout Social Agency section. Sprout users can access professional services like social media management agencies or SMMEs. Pros and Cons of Sprout Social Some advantages of Sprout Social over other social media management platforms. Pros of Sprout Social Users can effectively manage social media accounts. You can seamlessly increase your marketing efforts on various social media networks with Sprout Social. Gather intelligence through detailed analytics and customizable analytics. With Sprout's detailed and customizable data and insights brands can better inform their overall social media marketing strategy. Personalize customer support as a brand. This allows marketers to create a positive brand experience with tailored social replies and responses. Drive more sales using Sprout Social's streamlined processes. Increase or boost brand awareness. Sprout Social helps you generate more from social media to sell effectively. Uncover emerging trends Cons of Sprout Social Why I dislike Sprout Social: Sprout Social is not for small businesses or solopreneurs Sprout Social is quite expensive. Sprout Social Pricing Sprout Social Pricing Sprout Social Pricing How much does Sprout Social cost? You can now try Sprout Social for free with their 30-day trial. Try Sprout Social Free for 30 Days Sprout Social offers four (4) pricing plans. Standard Plan - $199 per seat per month Professional Plan - $299 per seat per month Advanced Plan - $399 per seat per month Enterprise - contact Sprout Social support for a quote. The Standard Plan ($199 per seat per month): 5 social profiles All-in-one social inbox Publish and schedule social media posts Content calendar Detailed reporting Ad tools iOS and Android apps Professional Plan - $299 per seat per month. You get everything in the Standard plan plus: Unlimited social profiles Detailed reports for Instagram, Facebook and X Message tagging Custom workflows Scheduling for optimal send times Saved replies Content Library X keywords and hashtags AI Assistant Ad tools for Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn Advanced Plan - $399 per seat per month. In the Advanced Plan, you get everything in Professional, plus: Message Spike Alerts AI Assist Chatbots Automation tools Smart Inbox and Reviews Link tracking Scheduled reporting Helpdesk and CRM integrations External approvals Organize tags Enterprise - contact Sprout support for a quote. In this plan, users get everything in the Advanced plan plus: Tailored implementation and onboarding Consulting services 24/5 high-priority customer support Social Listening Premium Analytics Employee Advocacy systems Influencer Marketing and Management Sprout Social Resources Section Customers today are looking to learn about your brand in different ways. Sprout Social offers the following resources for new users, marketers, or customers: The Sprout Social blog - I love the Sprout Social blog and I've been following it for years now. You can get great social media tips, best practices, and social media guidance from experts. Sprout Social Certification Program - The Sprout Social certification program is available for social media enthusiasts who want to become experts. The case studies section shows Sprout Social customers who have used Sprout Social to get tangible results. Users can use this to learn more about Sprout Social. The Sprout Social community section. Sprout Social offers a community session that allows Sprout Social users to connect and grow with other social media professionals. Webinars. Sprout Social runs a series of webinars for users to learn how to grow and improve their social media marketing efforts. Sprout Social Contact Us page - Users can contact the Sprout team across social media platforms, email them, or use their phone number. Product updates. In the product of this section, you can stay up to date with all the new feature updates of Sprout Social. The learning portal allows users to explore on-demand courses to get the most out of Sprout Social. Sprout Social Help Center - step-by-step articles that walk users through setting features or how-to's on the Sprout social platform. Sprout Social FAQ Frequently asked questions around the Sprout social platform. Is sponsored Sprout social useful? Sprout Social is a social media management tool meant for businesses and brands. It is used by brands to automate, manage, and plan their social media marketing tasks and campaigns. Is Sprout Social worth my money? Depending on your brand, Sprout Social is expensive but worth the price. It offers efficient social marketing features that allow brands to control their social media marketing. Who is the CEO of Sprout Social? At the moment the CEO of Sprout Social and since April 2010 till date. Is Sprout Social free now at the moment? Sprout Social is not free, but it offers a free 30-day trial. You can go for the lowest (professional plan) which is $199 monthly. Can you upload videos to Sprout Social? Absolutely. You can upload videos on Sprout Social to various social media accounts on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. How do I create my first post on Sprout Social? It's simple. To create your first post on Sprout Social, open the Sprout social application on your phone and navigate to the (social media) profile you want to post on. Type your message and click on the attached media to select any media of your choice to add to your social media post. You can also add tags, and locations or add an item from your asset library. Does Sprout Social automatically post to Instagram? Sprout Social is a social media management tool that allows Instagram scheduling. So yes, you can automatically post to Instagram from the Sprout Social Application. After scheduling, your post will automatically be published to your Instagram account. Does Sprout Social have an Application? Absolutely. You must have a Sprout social premium account or be on the free trial to use the Sprout social Application. But with the App, you can easily schedule your social media posts and manage your social media marketing campaigns on platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Google, My Business, and TripAdvisor. What are the top alternatives to Sprout Social? Some Sprout Social alternatives: Hootsuite, Agorapulse, SmarterQueue, Buffer, Planable, etc. How do I add a profile to Sprout Social? Adding a social media profile to Sprout Social is easy. Navigate to the social profile section on your Sprout social account. Go to settings and click on 'Users' then 'Social Profiles'. Here, you can click on connect on any of the social media networks you wish to connect. Log in using that social account and authorize. This will be automatically added to your Sprout social account. Thank you for reading this guide and have a great day. Try Sprout Social Here.

What is the best SEO agency in Nigeria? IbiFoundry Limited SEO is near your business! Our SEO Agency: IbiFoundry Limited SEO & Digital Marketing Agency - Work With Us If your website or business is not generating sufficient returns from search engines monthly, you leave a ton of money on the table. My name is Simon Taki Zaku and I want to introduce you to our SEO agency here in Nigeria, IbiFoundry SEO, nearest to you - haha, we're remote! What is IbiFoundry SEO Agency? On this page, I detail the story behind my SEO agency, IbiFoundry Limited SEO, how I got started, what sets this SEO Agency apart from others, and how you can apply to work with us (not open to all). The Story Behind My SEO Agency; IbiFoundry SEO Agency me :) How did I get the idea to start the IbiFoundry SEO Agency? Sometime back, I landed 3 blog writing and marketing clients from this very blog. All within a month. This immediately got me thinking about how important and relevant blogging and SEO writing are to online businesses, startups, and brands. Most people today are aware of the importance of blogs & content marketing to their brands. Blogging and content creation is still one of the strongest forms of content marketing today. I gave it a thought and decided to START A UNIQUE SEO and Digital Marketing AGENCY! And since you are part of our community, I decided to let you know first. What is IbiFoundry SEO and What Do We Do for Our Clients? IbiFoundry SEO is an SEO agency I started that offers specialized on-page SEO services, blog writing, management, and keyword research to small and medium-sized businesses, software startups, e-commerce websites, and organizations. Who do we work with? At IbiFoundry SEO, I intend to work with entrepreneurs, small to medium-sized businesses, b2b startups, and other digital agencies to research, write, publish & promote top-notch, search-engine-optimized blog posts, content, and pages to grow organic reach and clicks. Why is IbiFoundry SEO the Number #1 SEO Agency? In short terms, IbiFoundry SEO is the best SEO company near you as we are a remote agency in Nigeria. And yes, I will be a little biased here but I'll prove why this SEO agency is different. To ensure, IbiFoundry SEO Agency does not get mixed in the pool of growing SEOs here in Nigeria, I decided to switch things up and give our SEO clients what no other SEO agency can offer. Here's what sets IbiFoundry SEO apart from hundreds of other SEO agencies out there; For this SEO agency, I want it to be known for and built on integrity and professionalism. IbiFoundry (or IbiFoundry Agency or IbiFoundry SEO Agency) is known for extensive research and conversational content that connects deeply with readers. IbiFoundry SEO will be built strongly around great relationships with our SEO clients. I do care about my clients' business and (to an extent), personal life. My client's well-being in general is my top priority as an SEO consultant. IbiFoundry is known for in-depth research, quick search rankings, (strictly) white-hat SEO strategies, and detailed blogs that align with the client’s overall business goals, objectives, and customer needs. At IbiFoundry SEO, we not only handle your SEO, blog, or writing tasks but also do the necessary Search Engine Marketing (SEM) to grow your website, business, or startup site to at least 10,000 monthly organic visitors within 1 to 3 months. SEO and Content marketing are key to online success but there are loads of startups out there who either don't know how to go about it or are too busy handling other aspects of their businesses (product development, customers, etc). How to Work With IbiFoundry SEO Agency? We are currently open to taking in 5 to 10 SEO clients before the year runs out. How do you apply SEO services from IbiFoundry SEO? Before you apply, there are certain criteria we look for before working with our clients. Unlike other SEO agencies that take up clients in various niches, industries, or markets, we are different. Here are what you should consider before applying to work with IbiFoundry SEO: We only take on SEO clients within the B2B, tech/SaaS, and E-commerce industries. Our expertise revolves around these markets hence limit our spots to these types of businesses. We offer one-off SEO projects and long-term or monthly retainer SEO projects as well. So if your business understands the longevity in SEO and wants the long-term monthly retainer SEO package, you can apply (below). On the other hand, if you have a website and want a one-off SEO package, we are open to working with you as well. Finally, budgets: To ensure we are a unique SEO agency and different, I designed our SEO packages differently and most value attached. Each business, website, or brand is different. So we tailor our services according to each client's unique SEO budget. But our SEO packages range between $800 to $4,500 monthly. Are you the right fit for our next SEO case study? Jump on a call to find out. How to Work with IbiFoundry SEO Here is how to work with IbiFoundry SEO Agency: Fill out the survey form on this page (embedded below) or click here to fill it out. This form includes questions to allow us to be sure you are a great fit to turn to our next SEO success. You will get an email with a copy of your form answers. Expect a call, text, or email from me within 24 hours to better understand your needs and how we can change your business through SEO. Your SEO team looks forward to helping you hit your business goals, and attract organic traffic, leads, and sales from our SEO efforts. Are you interested in our SEO services but have other questions or need clarifications? You can email me at simonzakucom@gmail.com or simonwritesagency@gmail.com. Is anyone looking for a result-focused SEO agency? Feel free to share this post with them :) It will mean a lot to me (and the growing team). Hoping to hear your thoughts, my SEO friends :) OUR BLOG: https://ibifoundry.com.ng/blog/, simonzaku.com/blog/ Contact Email: simonzakucom@gmail.com, ibifoundry@gmail.com Have a productive day and talk to you soon, Best, Simon Taki Zaku Founder: IbiFoundry SEO Agency. Website: simonzaku.com Email: simonzakucom@gmail.com, Simonwritesagency@gmail.com. Work with Us

Hello, Simon Taki Zaku, your favorite, content writing and SEO specialist. Today, we cover a popular topic - content writing. This post shows in detail how we Nigerians can get into the field of content writing (or writing content for clients) to make money. This web/blog page discusses; what content writing is, examples of content writing, who a content writer is, the aims and objectives of content writing, and; getting started as a content writer. At the end of this guide, I share 12 secret content writing tips to help you (or anyone) get started as a beginner. You see, I've been writing content for over a decade. (12 years now). I've written 100,000s of words ranging in content types like; content for blogs, websites, social media profiles, networking accounts, landing page copy, Ad copywriting, email newsletters, reviews, and more, YouTube scripts, Outreach emails, Product pages. I've written several ebooks, white papers, press releases, blog posts, video scripts, podcast streams, landing, and social media copies. Let’s begin - what is content writing? Definition of “Content Writing”. How can the term “content writing” be defined by someone who has been writing content for the past decade? Content writing is the process of brainstorming, researching, writing, editing, publishing, and promoting written content online to engage a particular target audience. Content writing involves putting down written texts or articles to be published online. Who is a content writer? Definition of a Content Writer (AKA a content writing expert) How can I define a “content writer” (like me)? A content writer (or a content writing expert) specializes in writing content for websites, YouTube channels, landing pages, startups, email newsletters, movies, podcasts, blogs, etc for some reward which is mostly money. I am a content writer because I research, plan, and write SEO content for business websites and get paid. Get the idea? A content writer handles creating, researching, writing, and publishing several content pieces for various channels to help attain or achieve these business goals. A content writer may specialize in video scripts, written scripts, blog post articles, social media copy, email marketing copy, landing page copy, or website copy in general. (More on the categories of content writing below) Now, what are the common types of content writing? Examples of “Content Writing” Professionals Content Writing Specialists, and Strategists: Ali Faagba Joshua Okey-Ogunjiofor Maero Olori Emily Fowler Maureen Eugene Lucy Adegbe Kelle Campbell Jennifer Halligan Ashley Cummings Simon Taki Zaku (me;) Types/Categories of Content Writing There are many categories and types of content writing but here are the most common ones; blog posts, video scripts, podcast scripts, press releases, email newsletters, social media copies, landing page copy, product descriptions, white papers, ebooks, etc. Video Scripts: This is the process of writing a script for a video. This could be a YouTube video, a Vimeo video, a landing page video, or a sales or promotional video. Email Newsletters: Email marketing involves writing copy that, sells to your email newsletters. This is another form of content writing as well. Keynote Speech: As a keynote speech writer, you can write scripts for different keynote speakers or presenters. Social Media Copywriting: We need social content writing skills to create engaging social media copies for our feeds or clients'. Landing Page Copy: Every landing page hugely depends on the copy on the web page. The better the copy, the higher your conversion rates. White Paper Presentation: As a content writer, you can write white paper scripts for white paper presentations. YouTube SEO: YouTube description is a form of copy/content. If you're able to write content that properly describes a YouTube video, that is another form of content writing. Product Description: We have product pages for e-commerce websites that sell several products. A content writer writes product descriptions that include product features, pricing, shipping details, CTAs, etc. This is mostly popular for ecommerce brands or online stores. Website Pages AKA Webpages: Websites need copy for every page. These include your about us page, contact us, our story, our team, disclaimer, etc. A content writer handles this. Podcast Script: Some podcasters do not necessarily write their podcast scripts. A content writer can write high-converting podcast scripts for podcasters. Now there are different importance or aims of content writing. Some of these are; to make money to generate leads, to attract the right traffic, to convert traffic into leads, to convert leads into customers, to promote a brand, to increase social media followers, to engage to become popular, to build brand communities, etc. Examples of Content Writing What are some content writing examples to check? Here are 3 LIVE content writing examples in 3 different niches. You can click to view each piece before you continue reading. This page you are reading is an example of content writing. This is a LinkedIn post I published. It is another example of content writing. Click my blog here. Every post has an article - that is a content writing piece. Get the idea? Now how do you get started as a content writer? Getting Started as a Content Writer "How I personally got started as a content writer?" STEP 1: Let me tell you a short story (that leads to the first and important step to becoming a content writer). I recently applied for a job at one of my dream Agencies, Grow and Convert, but I didn’t get the role. But I learned something… They saw my special strengths! Even though the company wasn’t looking for a conversational writer, the hiring team acknowledged my unique writing specialty: a conversational tone that sparks engagement. And that's alright because that same reason G & C declined my application is the same reason I get hired by all my past and current content writing clients. Get the idea? You should be able to find your calling. What is your unique voice and writing tone? How do you speak in person? One of the best content writing advice I ever got is “write exactly how you talk to people” Write how you speak. I have a conversational tone I love. That is what works for me. That is what connects with my audience. What’s next? At this stage, you know what content writing is, the types of content writing, some live content writing examples, and who a content writer is. Now let’s look at how to select a niche or category for your content writing journey. How do you find a content writing niche? Ask yourself; "Do I want to write emails? Do I want to write YouTube scripts? Do I want to write social media content? Or I prefer to write and publish your stories on your domain?" What writing niche or category do you want to go after? Are you most familiar with creating blog articles? Are you great at creating educational content? Or are you interested in social media copywriting? These are categories of content writing a content writer can consider going into. I am a content writer in the B2B blogging and SEO niche. So be sure to find your niche before you proceed. STEP 2: What is the second step to becoming a content writer? The second step is to build a content writing portfolio. In other words, build a content writing website and display your works, story, experience, about, writing specialty, and contact details. A portfolio is an online presence where you display your past works, about you, contact me, and basically, why your target client should contact you for business. Design your portfolio. Design a portfolio for your content writing service or career online. I use Wix. You can use any good web hosting company out there. Luckily, I have a detailed guide on designing a freelance portfolio website in less than 10 minutes. Use the link below to read. How to Create a Freelance Portfolio Website (Step by Step) STEP 3: The third step is to reach out. Out of 100 people you reach out to about your content writing specialty as a content writer, 1, 2, or 3 may hire you (if you have a good offer). To reach out effectively, find the ideal target people who need your specific content writing skills or services. (Need SEO for your website? You can view our SEO Content writing packages by using the button above the page) Find companies, businesses, and entrepreneurs who may need writers in your niche. Focus on building genuine relationships with them and not directly ask for the sale. With time, you can pitch your new content writing services. This has been one of the wins that has helped me achieve a $1,100 per month content writing client. STEP 4: BLOG, PLEASE! The next step is creating valuable blog content to showcase your experience in your space. If you follow my blog, you know I'm a huge fan of SEO content. This involves writing content that ranks on search engines like Google. The goal of SEO writing (what I do) is to attract the right traffic (organic traffic), convert quality traffic to leads, and generate sales. Find your goal and create content around it. What type of blog content are you looking to create? Depending on your content writing niche, you should know the type of content you should create. For example, if you are going into video or YouTube script writing, you should be able to create blog content that attracts YouTubers and other video content creators like Reels, Shorts, etc. On the other hand, if you're looking to go into social media content writing, create content around building social media accounts. Find your niche, and create and publish content on your portfolio website. Do you have a professional to help you research and write specific blog articles to your taste and target your ideal audience quickly? I may still have availability this month - click here to apply to work with me. RELATED BLOG: Here’s a detailed guide on how I scored my first $1,000 content writing client. Make Money Blogging: How to Make $1,000 Blogging FINAL STEP 5 TO BECOME A CONTENT WRITER Always stay on top of industry trends in your content writing niche. Content writing is very competitive, especially in the freelance market. You must be consistent and stay on top of your game. Follow the top blogs and content-writing gurus in your space. In the SEO Content writing space, I follow experts like Brian Dean of Backlinko.com and Neil Patel of Neilpatel.com. AI Content Writing Tools There’s no doubt about the influence AI has in content writing. What are some vital content writing tools for beginners? Here are 5 powerful AI content writing tools I recommend: ChatGPT, Grammarly, Jasper AI, CopyAI, Contentshake AI by Semrush. Now, how do you land content writing jobs? How to Land a Content Writing Client There are several ways to get content writing clients today but only a few stand out for me. And luckily, I have a full guide on how I landed my first $1,000/month freelance writing client some years back. Here’s the post But for this post, here are 5 content writer job boards that I have gotten at least a client from over my 12-year content writing career. Content writing job platforms: Peopleperhour Upwork Fiverr LinkedIn Freelancer 12 Content Marketing Tips for Beginners Finally, what are some content writing tips from a 12-year experienced SEO content writer who has made over $7,000 writing blog content for my content writing clients? Here are my secret expert content-writing tips for beginners: Write actionable content (depending on your niche). Allow plenty of space within your content for readability. Depending on your niche, consider a conversational writing tone. Learn SEO and SEO writing. I have a free email course you can go through. Edit finished articles multiple times at different times or hire/work with an editor. Insert a lot of multiple images, screenshots, videos, infographics, etc Repurpose your content for different platforms to reach more people. Leverage the 3 Es of writing content. You can learn that in this blog post. Incorporate storytelling in your content. Practice writing captivating headlines. Capture your reader’s attention in the first few sentences with hooks. Learn about WordPress and blogging. I have a detailed guide that will help you when you start a blog and make money. Frequently Asked Questions about “Content Writing”. Now what are the frequently asked questions around content writing? How can I start content writing? Just like I've explained, there are just a few steps to going into content writing. The first is to develop your niche. What is that content writing niche you want to go into? Blogging? Video or podcast scriptwriting? Or product descriptions. After picking your niche, design and build your content writing portfolio. Begin creating content, build relationships, and network. This will help you to build a long-term career as a content writer. Finally, you should be able to apply for jobs on different job platforms. What are the skills required for content writing? There are skills required for content writing but here are the most important ones. We have; excellent grammar and punctuation skills, effective communication skills, research skills, blogging and SEO skills, adaptability to different tools and styles, storytelling. Where can I learn content writing? You can learn content writing from different online course platforms. You can also learn content writing by watching YouTube videos. Most importantly, I advise you to follow my blog as I am an SEO content writing expert with more than 10 years writing experience. So be sure to subscribe to this SEO blog to get updates once I publish new blogs. Other platforms to learn content writing include Coursera, Udemy, and more. How do content writers make money? The way I make money as a content writer is by taking freelance content writing gigs where businesses hire me to write blog articles for them. I can get paid per word per article or every month. Potential content clients contact me through this website with their unique content writing needs and projects. What is an example of content writing? There are so many examples of content writing. How much can a beginner content writer make? Now let me tell you my story. I've been doing content writing for more than 10 years, and I have made quite some money from my content writing services. I've worked with blogs, startups, software companies, and busy entrepreneurs to build their blogs. I've worked with personal brands, corporations, and organizations, to handle and create content for them. And on average, I make around $150 to $300 per content. Thank you for taking the time to read this masterpiece. Please share this guide around and if you have any questions please use the comments section below. I wish you a successful content-writing journey, Join my blog here, Simon Taki Zaku, Owner: https://simonzaku.com.

Hi, Simon Zaku here. I want you to meet the awesome IbiFoundry team. At IbiFoundry, we're more than just a team—we’re a family, united by a single mission to bring change, development, and innovation to Ibi, Taraba, and beyond. The journey ahead is exciting, but behind every milestone and every project is an amazing team of passionate individuals who are working tirelessly (and often voluntarily) to make it all happen. So, let’s take a fun, behind-the-scenes look at the brilliant minds who make IbiFoundry tick! The IbiFounders: the IbiFoundry Team Simon Taki Zaku – Founder & CEO, IbiFoundry Group Simon Taki Zaku – Founder & CEO, IbiFoundry Group I wouldn't want to talk much about myself but I am the Founder, and CEO, of IbiFoundry Group. You know the saying, “Big dreams come from big ideas”? Well, my dream for IbiFoundry is not just big—it’s colossal! As the founder and CEO, the untapped potential in Ibi and Taraba is something I have seen growing up all my life. And I am determined to put it (Ibi Local Government, Taraba, and Nigeria in general) on the map. When I'm not dreaming up new ways to inspire the team, I'm probably out there listening to music, making connections, or laughing at his jokes. Yep, na me be that! Dr. Mrs. Christie S. Zaku – Director, IbiFoundry Group Dr. Mrs. Christie S. Zaku – Director, IbiFoundry Group If there’s anyone who could be called the glue holding IbiFoundry together, it’s Dr. Christie S. Zaku. As a founding partner and director, she’s got the strategic know-how and experience to keep us grounded while we reach for the stars. Dr. Zaku brings a wealth of knowledge to the team, guiding us through every challenge with grace and precision. We’re lucky to have her vision shaping IbiFoundry into the powerhouse it’s becoming. Love Samuel – Project Manager, IbiFoundry Group Love Samuel – Project Manager, IbiFoundry Group If there’s one person who ensures that our projects go from “idea” to “reality,” it’s Love Samuel. As the project manager, Love takes on the heavy lifting of planning, organizing, and executing our initiatives. She’s our go-to person for turning concepts into action—and she does it all with a smile! Whether it’s coordinating a new development or overseeing a team of volunteers, Love’s leadership is a key reason why IbiFoundry continues to thrive. Sunday Job – Photographer & Content Creator, IbiFoundry Group Sunday Job – Photographer & Content Creator, IbiFoundry Group Sunday Job might say he’s “not that good at photography,” but let’s be honest—he’s a wizard with a camera. From breathtaking photos to high-energy video shoots, Sunday brings IbiFoundry’s story to life in ways words just can’t. He captures the heart of Taraba and Ibi with his incredible eye for detail and Nigerian creativity, all while making it look fun. If you’ve seen any stunning visuals from IbiFoundry, it’s because Sunday worked his magic. Bar. Hannah Taki Zaku – Legal Counsel, IbiFoundry Group Bar. Hannah Taki Zaku – Legal Counsel, IbiFoundry Group Legal matters at IBIFoundry? Handled. Compliance issues? Sorted as well. Bar. Hannah Taki Zaku, aka “Annie,” is the one who ensures IbiFoundry is running smoothly on the legal front. With her sharp, Godly mind and deep understanding of the law, she’s our go-to person when it comes to navigating tricky legal waters. Whether it’s contracts, regulations, or setting up new ventures, Annie’s legal expertise keeps us on the right track. Plus, she’s always ready with a great legal analogy to make things clear—she’s the kind of lawyer you want on your team. Hon. Prince Ayuba Zaku Dampar – Member of House of Representatives, Wukari/Ibi, Advocate/Director, IbiFoundry Hon. Prince Ayuba Zaku Dampar – Member of House of Representatives, Wukari/Ibi, Advocate/Director, IbiFoundry We can’t talk about IbiFoundry without mentioning the incredible support of Hon. Prince Ayuba Zaku Dampar. As the Member of House of Representatives for Wukari/Ibi and a key sponsor/director, he brings invaluable leadership and expertise to the table. His insight and connection to the local government make him a powerful ally as we push forward with projects that will change the lives of the people in Ibi and beyond. Hon. Ayuba Dampar is a visionary leader who believes in the power of community and development, and we’re honored to have him as a part of the IbiFoundry family. So, there you have it—the awesome, unstoppable team that makes IbiFoundry what it is today. We’re not just a group of passionate Tarabans working as a team of individuals who believe in Ibi, believe in Taraba, and believe in the power of community-driven change. We’re all here for the same reason: to make Ibi and Taraba a better place for everyone. And hey, if you’re inspired by what we’re doing and want to get involved, there’s always room for more passionate souls! You can contribute in so many ways—whether it’s by volunteering, partnering with us, or simply sharing our message. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember, the best is yet to come. 😎 Simon Taki Zaku Founder & CEO, IbiFoundry

Hey, do you want to visit the North but contemplating? Read on, I'll tell you things the media will not! "How do you cope with Boko Haram insurgency in the North?" Hello everybody, Simon here! Today, we’re diving into something significant - is Northern Nigeria safe? I'll be sharing some stories here so don't forget to subscribe. Having traveled to different parts of Nigeria, one of the most common questions I get is; "How do you cope with Boko Haram and insurgency in the northern states?" How Do We Northern Nigerians Cope with Boko Haram Insurgency? If you watch the news or live in Nigeria, you know that over the past two or three decades, there’s been a rise in insurgency. Especially from Boko Haram in northern Nigeria, affecting states like Borno, Maiduguri, and others. Here's the reality: I’ve spent over 20 years in the Northeast and haven’t personally faced or come across any insurgency attacks. My sisters and I This doesn’t mean these incidents don’t happen, but the media’s portrayal can make it feel exaggerated. Read on, I'll explain... I’ve traveled across the north, and my experience has been far more peaceful than people expect. Part of my comfort comes from being able to speak Hausa, which is widely spoken here, but it’s more than that. In Taraba State, for example, I can walk freely at any time of the day or night without fearing armed robbery, kidnapping, or other crimes. Yes, there are areas where these risks exist, but these are mostly remote, sparsely populated regions. The Truth about Northern Nigeria’s Peace - An Insider Story You see, the North is more peaceful than people think. I’ve spent my entire life studying and working in different northern states. And I’ve never had a direct encounter with Boko Haram or an insurgency situation. While these things do occur, they’re often in remote villages far from town centers. A Story from Yola, Adamawa State. Sometime back, I was in Yola, Adamawa state when news broke of a Boko Haram attack in Numan, a nearby Local Government. The news reported an alleged group of bandit killings in that Local government area of Adamawa state. My parents in Taraba were worried and urged me to come home. But as I stepped out of school and moved around town, I saw people going about their daily business—farmers working, taxis running, life as usual. "Me sef shock" ("I was in complete shock") The news of an insurgency nearby led to panic, yet right there in Yola, it was calm. I was there! Trust Me, the News Tends to "Cause Panic or Exegerate". This is not to say good and innocent people aren't killed by insurgency in this part but the news makes it seem like the entire state or region is affected. You'd most likely have to drive long distances to get to some of these affected areas. If you’re outside looking in or watching the news, it’s easy to think one incident defines the whole region. Just like in developed countries like the U.S. or the U.K., certain neighborhoods face crime issues, but you can’t judge the safety of an entire state or region based on one area’s troubles. In Taraba State, for example, I can walk around without worrying about carrying a weapon. Is that possible in areas like Chicago or Texas with high gun deaths? I feel safe, and I don’t have to hide my valuables like people do in many cities worldwide. Yes, this may be because I grew up here but trust me, there's way more good than the media credits. Compare this with some developed countries, where people can’t even wear jewelry or carry cash without concern. The Media’s Role in the Northern "Boko-Haram Perception" The Media often focuses on sensational stories because they drive views and clicks. Yes, these incidents occur, but they are far from daily reality for most people living here. Northern Nigeria is home to tens of millions living peaceful, productive lives. If you’ve been hesitant to explore Northern Nigeria because of what you've seen in the media, I invite you to come and experience it firsthand. From the beautiful landscapes to the rich culture, there’s so much to experience, there's so much to see. Why Taraba State Should Be on Your "Visit" List 1. Stunning Landscapes Taraba is home to breathtaking scenery, including forests, mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. Take the Mambilla Plateau, for instance. The Mambilla is known as one of the coldest places in Nigeria, it offers views you won’t find anywhere else. 2. Rich Culture Taraba is one of Nigeria's most culturally diverse states, with a wide variety of tribes, languages, and traditions. Here, the Fulani, Jukun, Wurkum, Mumuye, and many others live together, creating a vibrant tapestry of Nigerian life. 3. Affordable, Simple Lifestyle Life here is affordable. For instance, a drop anywhere within Jalingo, the state capital, costs around 200 Naira. This affordability extends to food, thanks to the state’s agricultural richness, making fresh produce accessible to all. 4. Growing Infrastructure Contrary to what some may believe, Taraba state is developing steadily. There’s ample land, labor, and opportunity for investors. If you have a business idea or want to invest, Taraba offers untapped potential. Thank you for reading! I’m Simon Zaku, founder of IBI Foundry.

What is the best web hosting service provider for small businesses? Experts reveal their process for selecting the perfect web hosting solution for your business or website. I reached out to influencers, thought leaders and experts in the marketing and tech hosting space to reveal their secrets for great hosting companies and also reveal some of their favorite web hosting service providers on the internet. Let's get right into it. Here are my top web hosting recommendations for small businesses: Namecheap Wix Hostinger Bluehost eUkhost Hostgator Contabu Interserver Web hosting Godaddy Siteground Here are the top web hosting companies mentioned in this post by the experts who participated: Hostgator Godaddy Bluehost Hostinger Siteground Hostnownow Namecheap Dreamhost To make this easier for you, I made this list (of the top best website hosting companies to pick from) into a PDF file for you to download which is great for offline purposes or to share with your colleagues. Here is what it looks like: Top 10 Website Hosting Service Providers PDF by Simon Zaku Download the PDF file here (join my blog's forum for free). How to Choose the Best Web Hosting Company for Your Business: Tech Experts Reveal their Best Web Hosting Companies Simon Taki Zaku - SimonZaku.com Nirav Darji - Easy-techy.com Adam Abdulraheem - DMi - Digital Marketing Agency (DMi Agency) Alice MusyokaItaloye Ibukun Ebenezer - Vibrantyouthlife.comDave Schneider - Shortlist.io Hamraz Hussain Prudence Onaah - Prudentpens.com Precious Oboidhe - Contentestate.com Qasim Bakare D20.com.ng Joel Haye QUESTION: “Could you share your top web hosting solutions for 2024? Why do you like these solutions?” Simon Taki Zaku - SimonZaku.com As an experienced SEO freelancer with over a decade's experience with numerous web hosting companies (good and bad), here is my input: Over the years, I've explored various website hosting platforms, but two platforms have consistently stood out for me and earned my unwavering recommendation: Wix (for easy and fast website design) and Bluehost (perfect for WordPress lovers). Here's why these two hosting services have become my go-to choices, both for personal projects and client websites. Wix: A User-Friendly Haven for Creativity Wix has won me over with its unparalleled user-friendly interface. As an SEO professional, time is of the essence, and Wix drag-and-drop website builder enables me to create visually stunning and functional websites in record time. The diverse range of templates caters to every niche imaginable, providing a solid foundation that I can effortlessly customize to align with the unique branding and SEO needs of each project. Secondly, Bluehost: From an SEO perspective, Bluehost provides a stable foundation for websites to thrive. The one-click WordPress installation simplifies the process of setting up a website, and the platform's robust security features help safeguard against potential threats. This level of reliability and security is crucial in an era where online visibility hinges on trustworthiness and site performance. Bluehost's scalability is another feature I value. As an SEO professional, I often work on projects that evolve and grow over time. Bluehost accommodates this scalability seamlessly, ensuring that websites can handle increased traffic and data demands without compromising on speed or performance. Other great web hosting service providers I recommend are Hostgator, Namecheap, and Hostinger. Nirav Darji - Easy-techy.com Hello, I am Nirav Darji. Navigating the complex digital terrain, choosing a web hosting solution goes beyond technicalities; it's a strategic decision shaping your online journey. Leveraging years of experience in digital marketing and web management, let me share key factors to consider in selecting your web host for the dynamic year ahead: Defining Your Digital Blueprint Performance Excellence Scalability Unleashed User-Friendly Mastery Security Fortification Customer Support Excellence Financial Precision Uptime Assurance Environmental Stewardship Insider Insights The best web hosting companies, in my opinion, are: HostGator: Users get unmetered storage and bandwidth, free domain registration, and a 45-day money-back guarantee. They also have awesome support. Bluehost: This web hosting service is used by many brands, and it’s easy to see why. 50GB of storage, unmetered bandwidth, and a 30-day money-back guarantee are hard to beat. DreamHost: Like HostGator, DreamHost offers unlimited storage, bandwidth, and free domain registration. But it goes a step further and gives a 97-day money-back guarantee. You have more than three months to decide whether you like it or not. Adam Abdulraheem - DMi - Digital Marketing Agency (DMi Agency) As the director of a marketing agency that not only crafts digital strategies but also provides web hosting services, we've navigated the complex world of hosting solutions on behalf of our clients. They often look to us for guidance on where to best host their websites and sales funnels. After years of experience and comparison, we've distilled our top choices down to a couple of standout providers. Namecheap has been our go-to for over six years, and it's a partnership that has stood the test of time. The reason for our loyalty is simple: reliability. We've hosted countless client websites without a single hiccup, which is no small feat in the digital realm. Their service offerings are robust, user-friendly, and, importantly, affordable, making them an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes. Bluehost is another provider we often recommend to our clients. What sets Bluehost apart, in our experience, is their exceptional customer support. In the rare instances when issues arise, their responsive and knowledgeable support team has been instrumental in providing timely solutions. Their hosting services are not only reliable but also offer a range of features that cater well to our clients' diverse needs. Choosing the right web host is crucial for any online venture. Both Namecheap and Bluehost stand out not just for their technical capabilities but for their customer-centric approach, making them our top recommendations for 2024. Alice Musyoka It’s no longer news that industry-leading companies and brands have a website or blog where they promote their products and services. With over 5.3 billion Internet users in 2023, these companies realized the need to explore the Internet and convert these numbers into leads and customers. Hence, they invested heavily in websites and blogs for better and improved income profits. They created attractive and user-friendly landing pages that will entice visitors and capture their attention (talk of love at first sight). Additionally, they hired experienced content writers to publish well-written and valuable blog posts that will rank high on search engine result pages (SERPs). This explains why top brands often update their blog posts to beat competition. After generating thousands of organic traffic through optimized posts, they create an irresistible sales funnel that converts traffic to leads and long-term customers. Unsurprisingly, Colibri revealed that a monetized website recorded an average $1000 monthly income. What does this mean? That's pretty simple. You need a website to thrive in this digital era. However, all of this relies on having the right web hosting provider behind your website because the journey of a successful website begins with a quality host company. Italoye Ibukun Ebenezer - Vibrantyouthlife.com As an SEO content writer and blogger, I will share the key factors you should evaluate when choosing a web host for your business. What is a Web Host? A web host is a company that provides the technology, hardware, and services required to host a website on the Internet. They are in charge of the Control Panel, Bandwidth, IP Address, Connectivity, and Server Space upon which you build an effective website. Six Factors To Consider When Choosing a Web Host Below are the five significant factors to consider before choosing a web host for your business: Uptime and Reliability Speed and Performance Security Customer Support Upgrade Options Price My Recommended Web Hosting Solutions Based on my experience as a blog admin for vibrantyouthlife.com, I recommend Namecheap and BlueHost. They guarantee reliable uptime and fast loading time and are affordable (especially Namecheap). Nonetheless, take time to research before committing. Compare uptime, speed, customer remarks, costs, and customer support. Dave Schneider - Shortlist.io Choosing a reliable web host involves considering key factors that I can separate in several categories. It’s a no-brainer, but this is something that I like to follow when choosing the right web host. Performance and Reliability: Uptime: Look for providers with consistent 99.9% or higher uptime guarantees. Avoid hosts with frequent outages or downtime. Speed: Choose a host with fast server response times and efficient CDNs to ensure your website loads quickly for visitors. Scalability: Make sure the host can accommodate your website's growth. Can you easily upgrade resources like storage, bandwidth, and processing power as needed? Also, ensure the provider offers easy upgrades or the ability to switch to a higher-tier plan. Security and Features: Security features: SSL certificates, malware scanning, DDoS protection, and regular backups are essential to safeguard your website and data. Software compatibility: Make sure the host supports the programming languages, databases, and CMS platforms you need for your website. Control panel: Choose a user-friendly control panel for easy website management, even if you're not technically proficient. Evaluate the control panel provided for managing your hosting environment - features like one-click installations, staging environments, automatic backups, and easy version control can be valuable. Support and Services: Customer support: 24/7 reliable and knowledgeable support is crucial for resolving issues quickly. Look for multiple channels like phone, email, and live chat. Additional services: Do they offer managed hosting, email hosting, domain registration, or other services you might need? Budget and Value: Pricing: Compare features and benefits of different plans to find the best value for your money. Avoid going for the cheapest option if it compromises performance or security. Money-back guarantees: Look for hosts with transparent pricing and reasonable refund policies in case you're not satisfied. Challenges and Overcoming them: Navigating the web hosting landscape can be a challenge. Here are some I've observed and potential solutions: Information overload: With so many providers and plans, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Research thoroughly, compare features, and focus on your specific needs. Choosing the right type of hosting: Shared, VPS, dedicated, managed - each has its pros and cons. Understand your website's resource requirements and choose the type that suits it best. Dealing with hidden costs: Watch out for setup fees, bandwidth overage charges, and other hidden costs. Read the fine print and ask clear questions before signing up. One of the things that I think is important (and often overlooked when it comes to choosing a product or service) is looking for reviews and testimonials. These can be incredibly helpful in verifying the reliability and quality of the product or service in question. So, next time you are considering making a purchase, don't forget to check out the reviews and testimonials to ensure that you are getting the best possible product or service. By prioritizing these criteria and being aware of potential challenges, you can find a reliable and trustworthy web hosting partner that empowers your online presence. Remember, the perfect solution is subjective and depends on your unique needs and budget. Do your research, ask questions, and switch if needed. Hamraz Hussain For 2024, my top web hosting picks are reliability-focused A2 Hosting and feature-rich SiteGround. They consistently deliver performance and support excellence. Prudence Onaah - Prudentpens.com My top web hosting solutions are Siteground, Hostinger, and Hostgator.com. We use Siteground at our business and their services are excellent. The loading time, website speed, and customer support are top-notch. We tried to migrate to a different hosting provider in 2022 and immediately regretted it. Our CTO at Prudent Pens also recommends Hostinger and HostGator because both hosting providers offer a range of affordable hosting options, fast loading time, and a 99.99% uptime. Precious Oboidhe - Contentestate.com Not having to think about hosting fees is one reason I like HostGator. I opted for their three years plan, which cost me almost 100% less than the monthly plan. Since using HostGator for almost 3 years, their support has been responsive, too (very important for anyone who dislikes codes). Qasim Bakare D20.com.ng In the realm of web hosting, identifying a reliable partner requires careful consideration of key criteria. At D20, we prioritize the following factors: Server Reliability and Uptime Scores: We emphasize providers with robust server infrastructure, ensuring high uptime and stringent security measures. Customer Service Site Backups and Security Scalability and Flexibility Loading Speed Cost and Refund Policy E-Commerce and Email Options In our quest for the perfect web hosting solution, challenges such as downtime, slow loading speeds, and inadequate support have been encountered. However, through diligent research and a keen understanding of our website's requirements, we've overcome these obstacles to find hosting partners aligned with our needs. In summary, prioritizing factors such as reliability, customer support, security, scalability, and loading speed is paramount in selecting a robust hosting solution, ensuring optimal performance for websites. Joel Haye Bluehost - along with unmetered bandwidth and SSD, Bluehost has proven to be a great option for start ups with their great customer service and robust server support. Hostgator - A tie with bluehost in regards to features and support. GoDaddy - Great for easy website set up. Top 10 Web Hosting Service Providers for Small Businesses Here are my recommendations: Namecheap Wix Hostinger Bluehost eUkhost Hostgator Contabu Interserver Web hosting Godaddy Siteground Here are the top web hosting companies mentioned in this post by the experts who participated: Hostgator Godaddy Bluehost Hostinger Siteground Hostnownow Namecheap Dreamhost I made this list (of the top best website hosting companies to pick from) into a PDF file for you to download which is great for offline purposes or to share with your colleagues. Here is what it looks like: Top 10 Website Hosting Service Providers PDF by Simon Zaku Download the PDF file by joining the Ibifoundry blog's forum for free (use button above). What are your personal favorites? Let me know in the comments section :)

Do you run a business? Do you strongly believe your business idea can change the world? I am inviting you to work with me on achieving this big dream. Work with Simon Taki Zaku: How We Help Businesses Increase Leads - SEO & Digital Marketing Expert Hi, my name is Simon Zaku, and I'm on a mission to help 10 startups, and businesses build brand influence through the power of search engine content. Why should you consider working with Simon Zaku for your business website? You see, I started this journey over a decade ago when I became interested in learning about blogging because my best friend, at the time, was making $60 every month from Google AdSense. At that time, I started my entertainment blog, zakxloaded.com. I was able to get a throwback screenshot of what my first blog looked like years ago (below): A screenshot of my first blog, zakxloaded.com (no longer active) What I did there was copy and paste news content from lindaekgblog.com and then publish it on my blog. And as a result, I failed. My blog, zakxloaded.com failed! From 2013-2016, I was taking content from other sites and pasting it on my site. Fast forward 10+ years, after running and closing several websites, stores, and blogs, I now run a successful growing community here on this website. I've helped 1000s of content marketers, SEOs, business owners, and digital marketing agencies through my content. And I am most happy that: I've published a ton of blog content, which collectively has over 5 million views. I have built an email list of hundreds of amazing marketers, SEOs, and entrepreneurs just like you. I have been featured and quoted in some of the top marketing publications and blogs like Forbes, RescueaCEO, MarketingInsider, A1future, Pixelied, and many more. I've also been nominated for several industry-related awards like the Best Internet Marketing Blog in 2019 by InfinityBlogAwards. And most importantly, I've received so much amazing feedback from the people I have helped. “Wow, Simon! This is the best article I have ever read on Twitter and I have PAID good money to learn more about it. You gave this for free, I can’t wait to learn more from you and am subscribing to you today! I am going to start trying these steps one by one as I have time and I can’t wait to see the results.” - Amy Marohl, Neededinthehome.com “Working with Simon for around a year on our blog (The UniclixApp Blog) has really helped kickstart our content marketing efforts over at Uniclixapp.com. He’s written several blog articles that have collectively attracted exactly 1,506,400 unique visitors to our (b2b) company blog. One article alone (about X analytics) which he published, has attracted over 482,700 visitors (at the moment) to our website - I highly recommend Simon for start-ups and blogs” - Rinol Alaj, Founder, Uniclixapp.com. "Simon, your perseverance is commendably inspiring! Overcoming the common pitfalls and remaining dedicated – that's entrepreneurial spirit. Looking forward to your e-book insights!" - Alex Belove, Founder, Belov Digital Agency. "Great insights, Simon! Your approach to researching lucrative blog ideas is spot-on. Utilizing platforms like Quora, and Google Keyword Planner, and engaging in online community forums is a fantastic strategy for understanding your audience's needs. Connecting with your target customers and providing content based on their interests ensures not only high impressions but also meaningful engagement. Looking forward to the next steps and learning more from your expertise!" - Mr Sahil, SEO Expert. The Types of Businesses I Work With? Here's the thing... Not all businesses or website owners are welcome to work directly with me! Over the years, I've evolved to develop a strong passion for software companies or in the B2B space. Since I've spent all my digital years in B2B, I love seeing startups become million and multi-million dollar companies. As a result, I have worked with over 20 satisfying startups and have learned a ton during this long period. Here are some of the brands I have worked with; UniclixApp (a social media management tool like Buffer, Hootsuite) - B2B A1future (a web-design, UX &UI digital agency) - B2B Pixelied (a social media design tool like Canva) - B2B Cyberbackpack.com (a B2C online store that sells Tesla-related accessories online) - B2C Pmstudycircle.com (PMP website helping Project Management professionals pass the PMP Exam) - B2C Favfoundation.com (an NGO & Charitable Organization in the heart of Taraba) - NGO Other businesses can follow the blog to learn exclusive organic strategies that I release every week. Here are my goals for this very website: GOAL 1 - I want to work with at least 5 Nigerian startups and 5 internationwithin the next six to twelve months. GOAL 2 - I want to help out of these five startups. I want to help three of these startups to hit 10,000 monthly organic traffic. Specifically traffic from Google and other major search engines like Bing. Finally, (GOAL 3) - I want to be able to travel out (Dubai in mind) for the 2024 Christmas/New Year celebrations; this has always been my dream, and I still hope and believe I will achieve this. Do you believe your startup idea is crazy enough to change the world? Is Your Business Idea Ready to Change the World? Work with Simon Zaku for Explosive Organic Growth What is your business or agency goal? If you have a big dream, then I believe we can strongly work together and produce something amazing. Amazing content. Amazing web pages, and Amazing blog post pages for your brand. But here's the thing... if you don't think your dream is big enough to change the world, we probably shouldn't work together. I respect YOU enough to save your time and save mine as well. But if yes, then you can contact (or email) me. You can also find me active on LinkedIn, X, Pinterest, Google Profile, and YouTube as well. On the other hand, implementing most of these things requires hands-on experience which you might not have. I'm excited and open to scheduling a call or meeting and speak with you (or your awesome team). All you need to do is contact me using the contact form or any of my emails or social DMs or schedule a call directly using my calendar link here. I'll get back to you whether you are a great fit or not. As I reply to all emails. Once more, this is not for every business. I have explained the typical and ideal business type I am comfortable working with, which are; B2B SaaS SEO agencies Digital marketing agencies PPC and Ad agencies Social media marketing agencies I'll be going through all the emails and applications I get here. And if you're a perfect fit, I'll get back to you with the next steps to schedule and discuss better. Talking to you has been my dream and doing this will help me achieve my goals and aspirations. Here are 3 action steps: Contact me (email me) Schedule a 15-minute Call with Me Read the blog. Have a great day, and I'll see you inside. Simon Taki Zaku, Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng

Hello, my people! I’m Simon Taki Zaku from Ibi, Taraba state, Nigeria, and today, I’m beyond excited to welcome you to IBIFoundry. This isn’t just another brand or company. IBI Foundry is something I’ve dreamed about for years. It’s my story, my passion, and my mission to show the world everything Ibi and Taraba State have to offer. From our culture, talents, strength, dedication, and our unique stories. Where It All Started Let me tell you a story. Proposed IbiFoundry Limited Headquarters IBIFoundry by Simon T. Zaku The IbiFoundry growing team :) IbiFoundry CEO, Simon Taki Zaku (left) with His Excellency Governor Agbu Kefas (Dr.) Proposed Ibifoundry Limited Meeting Room IBIFOUNDRY LIMITED is a legal company registered under the CAC. En route to my Village, Dampar, Ibi Local Government, Taraba state, Nigeria - 2025 A few years ago, I was going to Dampar - my village in Ibi Local Government, Taraba state. Along the way, I saw this young boy, barely 13, out on a small boat, fishing all by himself. The way he handled the boat, with so much skill and focus, made me stop and watch. But at the same time, I thought to myself—this young boy has so much potential, yet little to no support. Are you with me? And this isn’t just one boy. There are thousands of talented, hard-working young people here in Ibi and Taraba who need opportunities but often find themselves overlooked. I couldn’t shake that image out of my head. So, I started imagining a way to shine a light on this place and its people. The idea for IBIFoundry was born. Do you understand? Why “IBIFoundry”? I wanted a name that spoke to my roots. Ibi is my hometown, my pride. On the other hand, a foundry is where things are made and shaped. To me, “IBIFoundry” represents the potential I see here—untapped talent waiting to be forged into something powerful, something lasting. IbiFoundry Mission and Goals? Now, what exactly is IBIFoundry about? IBIFoundry has a simple mission: to put Ibi Local Government, Taraba State, and ultimately Nigeria on the global map. Yup, this is how we get home for vacation growing up. We have incredible stories to tell, and we deserve to be seen, heard, and valued. Here’s what we aim to do: Promote our culture and traditions – Ibi has so much to offer, from our festivals to the incredible talents of our people. The world needs to see this. Attract investment – We need more roads, better education, and opportunities. With the right partners and investors, we can create lasting change. Empower the youth – Our youth are the future. Through skills, opportunities, and support, we’re preparing them to succeed. What to Expect from IBIFoundry Let me explain… Through IBIFoundry, the team and I will share the best of what we have here. From real stories of local heroes to projects that uplift the community, we’re going to put a spotlight on Ibi and Nigeria as a whole. Here’s a taste of what’s coming: Stories from the Heart – You’ll hear real stories from our communities, showcasing the strength, resilience, and pride of our people. Tutorials & How-To Guides – From entrepreneurship to fishing and beyond, we’ll be sharing knowledge to help everyone grow. Community Projects – Giving back is in our DNA. We’ll run charity projects and support local initiatives, and we’ll need you with us every step of the way. IbiFoundry Nigerian Store – Soon, you’ll be able to shop for authentic, quality Nigerian-made products that showcase our culture. Right now, you can pre-order and be the first to get these unique items delivered to you, wherever you are. IbiFoundry Services What exactly does IBIFoundry do? We’re not just about storytelling; we’re about impact. Here’s what you can expect from us: 1. Training & Workshops – We’re hosting workshops on digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and skills that are valuable in today’s world. 2. Business Consulting – Need help connecting with a Nigerian audience or making an impact? We’ll be there to guide you. 3. Digital Marketing & SEO – With over 10 years in digital marketing, I’m here to help brands make their mark. Why IBIFoundry Matters Let me tell you another reason I’m so passionate about this. There’s a festival here, the Nwunyu Fishing Festival. Every year, fishermen come from all over to show off their skills and celebrate on the Ibi River. But there’s a reality behind the celebration: there’s no direct road leading to our village in Dampar. Imagine that! If you’re lucky, you might get a boat ride. If not, you paddle a canoe. Isn’t that something? I can’t ignore it. I can’t ignore the people who don’t have the opportunities they deserve. And I know I’m not the only one who believes in this vision. Together, we can make IBI Foundry more than just a company. We can make it a force for change. What’s Next for IbiFoundry? Expect to see a lot of content here—from blog posts and articles to videos and tutorials. This is just the beginning. I’m hoping that through IBIFoundry, we can inspire others to invest in Ibi, in Taraba, and Nigeria. Join Us at Make Ibi and Taraba State Great Again! Proposed IbiFoundry Limited Headquarters What do you think? If this mission speaks to you, consider joining us. Whether it’s through a donation, signing up for our newsletter, or even just sharing our stories, every little bit helps. Together, we’re not just building a brand. We’re building a brighter future for our community and Nigeria. Thank you for being part of this journey. Are you ready to make an impact with us?

I can never forget my JSS1 Valentine’s Day. It was my first year in boarding school in Jos, and as junior boys, we had no idea what was coming. Our seniors called us out, and I still remember one of them saying: "Una go chop cane today as una Valentine!" Like joke, like joke - it was all pain. The kind of boarding school love letter you don’t want to receive. But hey, that’s a story for another day! Today, we’re flipping the script. Instead of pain, we’re spreading love, appreciation, and opportunities to everyone who has been part of the IbiFoundry movement. A Love Letter to Every IbiFounder You see, Valentine should be about love, care, and sharing. Today, as the world celebrates love, I want to take a moment to appreciate YOU - our incredible community of IbiFounders, supporters, and investors. This is the first Valentine’s IbiFoundry is witnessing - but it’s definitely not the last! And look at how far we’ve come together: ❤️ 40,000+ organic impressions on Google - people are searching, and they’re finding us. ❤️ An executive meeting with the Governor of Taraba State - our work is being recognized at the highest level. ❤️ Over 1,000 keywords ranking in 190+ countries worldwide - IbiFoundry’s reach is GLOBAL. ❤️ Local and international investors backing our vision and believing in this movement. ❤️ And most importantly - you, our IbiFounders, our family. What started as a joke is now a movement with 100s of bifounders! You mean the world to us. Without you, there’s no IbiFoundry. 5 Exclusive Spots - A Valentine's Gift from IbiFoundry! To celebrate this day, we’re giving away 5 exclusive spots in our upcoming WhatsApp class for: ✅ Aspiring freelancers ✅ Future content creators ✅ Wannabe Bloggers ✅ Future SEO experts ✅ Anyone who wants to learn the ways of building a side-income online Want a spot? Drop a comment or DM us now! Join the Movement - The Best is Yet to Come! To every Nigerian reading this: IBI Foundry is more than a blog. It’s a revolution. A movement rewriting the Nigerian narrative, opening doors, and bringing global attention to Taraba, Nigeria, and Africa. And trust me - y’all are NOT READY for what’s coming! We have some of the most groundbreaking projects in the works, and we need your continued support to bring them to life. To every Nigerian reading this: IBI Foundry is more than a movement - it’s a revolution! A revolution of storytelling, innovation, and nation-building. This is your invitation to join us. Be part of history. Let’s show the world what Taraba, Nigeria, and Africa are truly made of. Happy Valentine's Day, IbiFounders! Let’s keep building together. With love and gratitude from Simon. Happy Valentine’s, IbiFounders! Let’s keep making history together. Simon Taki Zaku Founder, CEO – IBIFoundry