I hope you had a great week. Well…have you ever lived in an apartment with a shared prepaid meter? I remember the day I moved into my first apartment in Lagos; my neighbours were arguing outside because the electricity had gone off and some people hadn't paid their share. I was in shock because I had literally just arrived.

A couple of months later, we got smart and came up with a plan for everyone to overpay a little so we could build up a reserve. Before I left, my neighbours would transfer the amount for their monthly electricity bills to Power Up, so we never had to wait for the electricity to trip or worry about defaulting on a payment.

We were also saving more money in the long run since we got cashback anytime we bought units and didn’t pay any transaction fees.

Get the Power Up App or use the web version and save money.

Now, Here Are Some Important Things You Need To Know This Week

Nigeria's Cheapest Unlimited Data Plans

We've got another money-saving tip for you. Are you constantly spending money on data?

With data being so expensive, using cheap unlimited data plans is a great way to save money and stop worrying about it every day. According to the NCC, here are the top seven cheapest unlimited plans:

• Wifiber Broadband - ₦15,380

• NGCOM – ₦15,500

• Hoop Technologies – ₦15,500

• Tizeti – ₦17,500

• IPNX – ₦22,250

• MTN - ₦25,000

• AIRTEL - ₦30,000

By the way, you get cashback when you use the Power Up app to buy airtime and data.

The Naira's Performance Against the US Dollar

The value of the Naira recently experienced some shifts in the foreign exchange market. In the unofficial (parallel) market, the naira's rate held steady at ₦1,550 against the US dollar. Meanwhile, on the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM), the official rate saw a slight dip, closing at ₦1,536.99 to the dollar.

Did you know you can always track the naira-to-dollar exchange rate by installing a Power Up Widget on your iPhone?

Nigeria's Oil Production on the Rise

Nigeria's oil production saw a significant increase in July 2025, reaching an average of 1.71 million barrels per day. This figure is a combination of 1.507 million barrels of crude oil and 204,864 barrels of condensates.

This marks a 9.9% increase compared to July 2024, when the country produced 1.56 million barrels per day. The data was released in a statement by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). Do you think this development will reduce the cost of crude oil in Nigeria?

That’s all from me this week. See you next week.💃

Cheers,

Vicky🩵

How has your week been? This week has been full of exciting things, and I can't wait to share them with you.

First, though, can I get a show of hands? Am I the only one who gets the urge to spend their entire salary the moment it hits their account?

This week is a big one for salary earners, and I'm sure we're all expecting that much-awaited alert. All month, I keep a running list of all the things I want to buy, but before I can even pay my bills, the money is gone. Poof! Ugh…The good news is, I'm finally getting a handle on this bad habit, and I'll tell you exactly how at the end of this newsletter.

We've Been Keeping An Eye On Things - Here's What You Need To Know

These Nigerian States Are Top Fuel Consumers

Lagos, Ogun, and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) are the biggest consumers of petrol, according to a report from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority. The data shows that out of the 1.44 billion litres of petrol sent to states in June, Lagos alone used up 205.7 million litres, cementing its status as the country's economic powerhouse with a high demand for fuel.

Mega Payouts: Nigerian Companies Rewarding Shareholders

If you invested in these companies, you should be swimming in money because you got a massive credit alert.

In the first half of 2025, Nigerian companies paid out billions of naira to shareholders. Topping the list was Dangote Cement Plc, which distributed a massive N502.5 billion in dividends. Seplat Energy Plc came in second with a payout of N104.8 billion, a significant jump from its 2024 figure. Other major players included Aradel Holdings Plc, Lafarge Africa Plc, Transcorp Power Plc, FBN Holdings PLC, Okomu Oil Palm, Wema Bank and Geregu Power PLC, respectively.

Seplat Energy's New Project

Seplat Energy Plc, in collaboration with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has successfully completed its first domestic supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from the Bonny River Terminal. That’s big news for the energy sector.

How Do I Manage My Expenses?

So, how do I actually manage my expenses after getting paid? It's simple. I send the money I need for things like data, electricity, and subscriptions to the Power Up app. The app gives me a summary of how much I'm spending on bills, which helps me budget wisely. It’s easy peasy! You should try it, too.

Until next time, take care.

Vicky.

Let’s just say my eyes saw shege last week. While waiting for a bus at Iyana Oworo, an agbero snatched my bone straight wig right off my head, and the bus I eventually entered dropped me nowhere near the office. I ended up walking almost ten minutes in a light drizzle, wondering what life choices had led me to this moment.

For months now, I’ve been enduring the chaos of Lagos public transport; those wooden chairs are brutal. I’m saving up for a car. No Uber, no Bolt—I’ve been jumping danfos, and each time it feels like a near-death experience. But that day? That day broke me.

So I made a decision. I’m taking a break. A proper one. Two weeks in the U.S. with family—no bus stops, no agberos, just peace and family. I need time to breathe, reflect, and remind myself that life doesn’t have to feel like a daily struggle.

First things first: I tapped on my Power Up widget to check the dollar rate. ₦1,520 to $1. Painful, yes, but not enough to change my mind.

I’ve booked my ticket and paid with the Power Up virtual card, sorted my leave with HR, and even started packing mentally. Just thinking about fresh air, a new environment, and hugs from my cousins was already lifting my spirit. I may not come back with a car or a new wig, but I’ll return with something better: clarity and energy.

Lagos will still be Lagos, but next time it tries me, I’ll be ready.

Cheers,

Vicky.

Long time, no talk. Omo, you won't even believe the drama that happened to me. Some weeks ago, I fainted. Crazy, right? I was shocked to hear some people have never ever fainted in their lives.

How are you, though? As for me, I'm recuperating from that fainting episode and then back to the usual hustle and bustle of adulting in Lagos. You know how it is – work, trying to have a life, the whole adulthood wahala. If there’s anyone who needs to experience the soft life, it’s me. Anyways, I’ve got good news for you!

As Portable sang, "Who go help you, no go stress you," and that's the realest thing ever! Whenever you guys send me messages about issues crediting your line with data or your token acting up, I take your complaints super seriously, and I’ve heard you loud and clear. We've fixed everything on the app so it's so seamless and smooth. Try it out and see.

Plus – NEWSFLASH! We have a new cool web application [Click here to check it out]. We are talking about cheap data plans, flawless electricity tariff top-ups, betting wallet top-ups, an affordable dollar card with fair rates that actually works, and so much more accessible on your browser.

Speaking of the dollar card, just this week, my friend reached out to me because she wanted to pay for an online course, and she remembered I have been hyping Power Up. She downloaded the app and couldn't believe how affordable the card was (₦3,000 only!), how easy it was to get started, and how quickly she could make payments.

I told her Power Up will make her life so much better, not stress her. We dey for you! 😉

Cheers,

Vicky.

How are you doing? Me? Well…I don't know about you, but I'm allergic to too many debit alerts.

You know what else really annoys me? Hidden charges.

Last week I was about to order a Chickwizz sandwich from Chicken Republic. The app showed ₦2,800, but at checkout, the price jumped to ₦4,200. For two slices of bread! I was shocked. What kind of service charge is that?

I contemplated going to the Chicken Republic nearby, but when I thought of the stress, I just bought Agege bread and made an egg sandwich.

It's not that I didn't have the money for that sandwich; it felt like I was being finessed. I can't be the only one who hates that feeling, right?

That feeling, and the fear of hidden fees in general, is why a PowerUp virtual USD card is so useful especially if you shop online and have a lot of monthly subscriptions.

Getting your card costs a flat ₦3,257 and transactions won't result in extra charges. Plus, the exchange rates are incredibly low, better than those popular apps.

All I’m saying is, if you like yourself and want to save money, just download the app from the Google or Apple App store, or if you have the app already, request a dollar card.

Click here to get the card.

A word is enough for the wise.

Hit me up on WhatsApp for any complaints or questions.

Your bestie,

Vicky♥️

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How are you? Hope everything is well? As for me, I escaped Lagos to Kogi for my Mom's 60th, and basically to spend days without a single debit alert and just eat good food. But heyyyyyy! You see the sun there ehn? 🥵It can fry eggs, no joke.

I also stayed with my older sister, and her 4-year-old son. Every morning, he wakes up angrily and asks, "How MANY times do I have to go to school naaa?" Like, bro, chill, you've got 16 more years of this.

And then, sometimes, out of nowhere, he asks me, "Who are you? Are you my aunty?" His questions are so cute and adorable.

Being around him and all his endless questions, kinda reminded me of Cydene!

Let me reintroduce myself, I am Vicky of Cydene, you can send me questions about EVERYTHING, I love to answer them and fix any issues you have.

The Power Up by Cydene app gets you a fast and affordable virtual dollar card for international payments, easy electricity bill payments, betting wallet top-ups, airtime, data, and more. [Oya, get the app now!! if you don’t have it already.]

Some of the questions I get asked are; "Is there a referral commision?" "Why isn't my meter loading?" "How can I set up my dollar account?" "Can I fund my betting account?" “How much are your data plans?”

Honestly, answering your questions is one of my favorite things. It's like, you guys are my online fam.

Without you, there's no Vicky of Cydene. Let’s get to know each other more with this survey.

But first, let me clear some things up: If your token number isn't loading, slide into my DMs. Wondering what’s up with your data? I’m on it. Wanna set up a dollar account? Holla at me. And yes, referral commissions are coming soon, so get ready for awoof season.

Let’s talk more about Cydene on WhatsApp. Hit me up here.

For real, I'm here for you.

Your bestie,

Vicky💜

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Recently I heard someone say they won't video call a talking stage that isn’t going anywhere, listen to music that isn’t sweet, or watch a pointless video with their mobile data anymore.

If you’ve been online, you know Nigerians have been complaining endlessly about expensive data plans, and it’s so understandable because it’s truly not easy coughing up a lot of money for data subscriptions.

Number #1 Tip To Make Your Data Last Longer

Are there really cheap data plans that won’t run out quickly?

Well, depending on your income and expenses, buying smaller data bundles makes you spend more money.

Apart from unlimited data offers, opting for data plans in the ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 range is way better than buying cheaper plans like ₦600 or ₦1,500.

For example, as of February 2025, MTN Nigeria offers a 20GB monthly plan for ₦7,500, while Glo Nigeria offers 50GB for ₦10,000.

Larger data bundles usually offer a lower cost per gigabyte and thus offer more value for money, while smaller data plans have a higher cost per gigabyte.

There is no truly ‘cheap’ data these days and spending money on ‘cheap’ data will still cost you more than the so-called expensive plans when you do the math and add it up .

Don’t be penny-wise and pound-foolish.

By the way, you can buy all the available data plans on the PowerUp By Cydene App.

Dollar Transactions At The Cheapest Rate

Do you have the PowerUp App on your phone so you can make international payments seamlessly?

If not, what are you waiting for? Did I mention our rates are the cheapest when compared to other platforms?

Download the Power By Cydene App TODAY to begin transacting in dollars.

There are only three steps to setting up your account, but if you face any hurdle, just send us a message on WhatsApp, and we will answer in seconds.

Cydene delivers excellent energy products while simplifying bill payments.

Until next time,

Cheers,

Vicky.

Are you one of those people who hear good advice, agree it’s wise, and then do the exact opposite? I have some really good advice for you and I hope you listen.

Before I share, it's no longer news that data and airtime rates are rising in Nigeria.

Some network providers are already implementing these new rates, which sent the internet into a frenzy this week.

Sadly these rates are now effective everywhere including the PowerUp app.

The Best Financial Advice You’d Ever Get

Now, back to the good advice I have to share. Here it is: Transact in dollars. How? With a good dollar card that can easily convert your naira to dollars and vice versa at a fair rate.

When your transactions are in dollars, you become infinitely wealthier because the United States Dollar (USD) is the currency of international payments and trade.

With a dollar card, opportunities open up for you. If you already have one, you might want to switch to the PowerUp Virtual Card.

Trust me, other virtual cards rates are way too high and they are inefficient - sometimes they work and other times they leave you stranded.

How To Get Richer

A dollar card lets you buy almost anything (as long as it can be delivered to your country), pay for courses and subscriptions online, most importantly receive payments and save in dollars.

These factors help you build wealth. Since the naira typically depreciates against the dollar, you can invest in international stocks and purchase goods and services without worrying about conversion losses.

As I’ve told you previously, some apps claim to help you with dollar payments, they end up stealing your money with excessive fees and deductions.

We don’t! Power Up by Cydene offers the best rates—no cap!

Simply download the Power Up by Cydene App and request for your card.

It’s a very easy process but if you need help along the way, reach out to us on WhatsApp, and we’ll assist you.

Happy Valentine’s Day

By the way, it’s Valentine’s Day today! Hope you’re having a romantic day but if it’s just an ordinary day, that's okay too - just know that you are loved.

Cheers,

Vicky.

Did you know that some of the apps you use for transactions are stealing from you?

Yes, you're inadvertently wasting your hard-earned money, and I'll tell you exactly what you need to do to stop.

Before I do, let me mention that in January, the two most listened-to Spotify songs in Nigeria were “Joy Is Coming" by Fido and "Favour" by Lawrence Oyor.

I guess that's because people were hopeful and prepping for good things, even when facing challenges.

Save, Don’t Waste Money

Speaking of preparation, one popular goal each year is to save more money— it’s so important if you're striving for financial stability.

If I hadn't spent so much on data and airtime last year, I would have already built a house on Banana Island by now.

But this month, I have a plan: I'll track my data expenses using the PowerUp App by Cydene to stay within budget.

How to Stop the Theft

On saving money and preventing waste and theft, the app you're currently using for dollar transactions is costing you a lot in excessive fees and deductions.

However, in less than a minute and for under ₦3,000, you can get a PowerUp virtual dollar card and shop internationally at a fair rate—unlike other apps that charge rates bordering on daylight robbery.

Confused about how to set up and fund your wallet? We'll help!

Simply download the PowerUp by Cydene App and reach out to us here to get started with funding and transactions.

Don't worry—joy is definitely on its way, especially when you use the PowerUp App to track your bill payments (for airtime, data, electricity, and cable) and to purchase energy products at affordable prices.

Cheers,
Vicky.

Thanks for reading Humans of Cydene!

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Last year, many Nigerians faced hardship in its full glory, thanks to skyrocketing costs of petroleum products.

Dollars were also as scarce as gold, and making dollar payments was almost impossible.

Yet, even amid the chaos, Cydene delivered energy products and simplified bill payments excellently.

The Dollar Card Revolution

No doubt, you’ve experienced the frustration of desperately searching for a bank with a dollar card to make payments for online courses, streaming services, clothes, shoes, apps, and so on.

But just when you think you’ve found a solution, you’re either overwhelmed by the complicated process of getting the card or shocked by the excessively high transaction fees they charge.

A new day is dawning, and now you can make seamless international payments with the PowerUp Dollar Card.

• Charges are low compared to other dollar cards.

• It’s virtual, so there’s no risk of losing or misplacing it, and it offers all the features of a physical card—a win-win!

• It works on popular payment platforms like Amazon and many more.

Let’s Get You Started

Download the PowerUp By Cydene app and activate your Dollar Card today.

And if you know someone who’s always asking about dollar cards, share this newsletter with them so they can finally relax!

From Cydene Express to PowerUp by Cydene

You might have also noticed—we’ve changed our name! What was once Cydene Express is now PowerUp by Cydene. This is because we’re doing much more now!

At Cydene, we don’t just meet our customers' energy needs; we take it a step further and make it possible for them to pay their bills [power, airtime, data and bets] seamlessly with our mobile app, including dollar transactions.

Looking Ahead to 2025

We know January is almost over and it might be too late to be wishing people a happy new year, but Cydene is excited to welcome you into the new year.

We’re here to make your life easier—whether through our energy products or by helping you manage all your bills and transactions with the PowerUp by Cydene app.

Cheers.