Month: April 2025

Surviving Nigeria’s Heatwave: A Guide to Not Being Roasted Like Plantain

Dearest Gentle Reader,

If you’ve stepped outside lately, you know that Nigeria is currently hotter than your landlord when you delay rent. The sun is out with a personal vendetta, and at this rate, we’re all just one degree away from being fully roasted like plantain.

But while this heatwave is temporary, there’s another kind of heatthat lasts forever; but read on to to know how to survive this kind of heat and the other heat that lasts forever.

1. Hydrate Like Your Life Depends on It

This is not the time to be forming “I don’t like drinking water”. Please drink enough cold water this period. Carry around a water bottle if possible because your body is basically sweating out all its life savings and you need to refill your account with water (not soda). Aim for at least three litres a day, and if possible, throw in some electrolytes to keep your energy up.

2.Dress for Survival, Not Fashion Week

Yes, we know you love your black-on-black outfits, but unless you want to slow-roast like jollof rice, opt for light, loose, and breathable clothing. Cotton is your best friend, and if you must wear dark colours, just prepare to be nature’s solar panel.

3. Find Shade everywhere you go!

If you’re outside and you see shade, run to it. Don’t stand under the sun. No explanations needed. If there’s an AC nearby, even better. This is the season to appreciate supermarkets, banks, restaurants, and anywhere with free cold air.

Bonus tip: if you work from home and NEPA strikes, make friends with that neighbour who always has a generator. Now is the time to bond.

4. Respect the Sun. Use Sunscreen

Yes, even Black people need sunscreen. The sun doesn’t care about melanin. It will roast anyone. If you’re going outside, protect your skin with sunscreen, hats, or umbrellas. Otherwise, you might come back looking like burnt toast.

5. Sleep Smart

If your bedroom feels like an oven at night, use light cotton sheets, keep windows open for cross-ventilation, and if you have an AC, enjoy the luxury. If not, place a bowl of ice in front of your fan for instant AC vibes.

6. Avoid Unnecessary Movement:

If it’s not urgent, stay indoors. This is not the time to be walking up and down in the sun like you’re rehearsing for hell fire. Reduce unnecessary movement, and if you must go out, plan your trips wisely. Erm… also, if you are entering public transport, find a seat near the window. That breeze is premium economy class for free. 7. Cold Showers Are Your New Best Friend

7. Forget hot showers:

This is the season for cold, refreshing baths. Take multiple showers if necessary; your skin will thank you. If water is scarce, just stick your feet in cold water. It helps cool your whole body. Also, if it’s unbearably hot, wet a light cloth and place it on your forehead for instant relief.

8. Get Your Will Done While You’re at It

Look, Lagos heat is bad, but the real furnace is the family fight over property when there’s no Will. Suddenly, long-lost cousins appear, everybody remembers what you “promised” them, and your family group chat turns into a legal battlefield.

A Will ensures that your loved ones don’t have to battle it out like Big Brother contestants over your assets. Think of it like an AC for the future. It keeps things cool, calm, and collected. And guess what? You can change it anytime as your life changes.

Remember, a Will is not just for billionaires. Even if all you have is a plot of land, a car, and your legendary sneaker collection, you need one.

If this heatwave has taught us anything, it’s that life is unpredictable. Don’t leave things to chance. Stay hydrated, stay cool, and most importantly, our trust advisors are here to guide you every step of the way.

📞 Call: 02012715002

📧 Email: [email protected]

🌍 Visit: https://www.arm.com.ng/trustees/contact/

Start planning for the future today!

Top Reasons People Put Off Estate Planning (And Why You Should not)

Let’s be honest: thinking about death can make many of us uncomfortable—planning for it even more so. Many people believe that if they’re not married, don’t have children, or don’t own significant assets, there’s no need for estate planning. Others assume it’s something they can always handle “later.”

But here’s the truth: procrastinating on estate planning is a global issue. It doesn’t matter your location, culture, or religion, everyone faces this challenge. Yet, estate planning is one of the most important steps in protecting your financial legacy and ensuring your loved ones and wishes are cared for.

If you’ve ever enjoyed giving or take pride in providing for those you love, think of estate planning as the ultimate gifta way to secure peace of mind and show how much you care.

Why Do People Avoid Estate Planning?

Here are some common reasons people put it off and why you shouldn’t:

“It’s Only for the Wealthy” Many assume estate planning is unnecessary unless they’re extremely wealthy. But estate planning is for everyone. It ensures your loved ones are cared for, protects your assets, and avoids unnecessary taxes or legal headaches.
“I Have Plenty of Time” Some think they can postpone estate planning because they’re young or in good health. Life, however, is unpredictable. Starting now ensures your family won’t face unnecessary stress or legal hurdles if something unexpected happens.
“It’s Too Complicated” The legal jargon and decisions can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. At ARM Trustees, our professionals are here to make the process simple, breaking it into clear and manageable steps.
“I Don’t Know Where to Start” Many feel unsure about how to begin, but starting can be as simple as identifying beneficiaries for existing accounts. For more complex areas, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
“My Loved Ones Will Figure It Out” Assuming family members will handle everything amicably often leads to disputes and unnecessary stress. A clear estate plan eliminates uncertainty and potential conflicts.
“I Don’t Want to Think About Death” Yes, confronting mortality is uncomfortable, but estate planning isn’t about focusing on death—it’s about ensuring security, peace of mind, and respect for your wishes.
“It’s Too Expensive” The cost of estate planning may seem high, but it’s a small price compared to the emotional and financial toll on your family without a plan. Basic options, like drafting a will, are affordable and accessible.
“I’ll Have to Keep Updating It” While updates are occasionally needed, most estate plans remain effective with minor adjustments. A solid plan saves time and stress in the long run.

Why Start Estate Planning Now?

An estate plan isn’t just about dividing assets—it’s about managing your affairs holistically. Here’s why you should act today:

Protect Your Legacy: Ensure your wishes are honored, from asset distribution to the guardianship of minors.
Provide Peace of Mind: Knowing your affairs are in order is an incredible stress reliever.
Minimize Taxes: Save your heirs from excessive estate or inheritance taxes.
Avoid Probate: Skip the costly and lengthy legal process for your family.

Without an estate plan, you risk leaving important decisions about your assets, healthcare, and loved ones in the hands of strangers. Don’t cede control of your affairs, secure your legacy instead.

Remember, procrastination can lead to unintended consequences. Don’t wait for a better time; the best time is now. Contact us today to start your estate planning journey and give your loved ones the ultimate gift of care and certainty.

Your Next of Kin Is Not Your Beneficiary. Let’s Fix That Before It’s Too Late!

Dear Reader,

Many people assume that simply naming a next of kin means their loved ones will automatically inherit their assets when they are no longer in the picture. But here’s the truth: your next of kin is not your beneficiary. Read that twice.

This misunderstanding can create serious legal and financial complications for your family. So, let’s break it down and ensure your hard-earned wealth ends up in the right hands.

So, what’s the difference?

Next of Kin refers to your closest living relative. They could be your spouse, child, sibling, or parent, depending on your family structure and local laws. They may be contacted in emergencies or have certain legal rights, but they do not automatically inherit your assets.

Beneficiary is the person (or entity) you officially designate in a Will, Trust, Insurance policy, or financial account to receive your assets when you’re gone. Unlike a next of kin, a beneficiary is legally recognized and prioritized in asset distribution. And here’s the kicker: if you don’t name one, the system decides for you, and trust me, you don’t want to leave that decision to the system.

What happens If you assume they are one and the same?

Let’s play out a few scenarios:

Your bank accounts? Without a named beneficiary, they get frozen, and your family will need to go through a long, stressful legal process to access them.

Your life insurance and retirement funds? If you didn’t fill out a beneficiary form, the payout won’t magically go your spouse, children, or anyone you intended. Rather, it could be tied up in probate for months or even years.

Your properties and investments ? If there’s no Will, it’s up for grabs in a legal battle. And we all know how messy family disputes can get right?

How to Protect Your Loved Ones

Name Beneficiaries Now: Check your bank accounts, life insurance, pension funds, and investment portfolios. Update them while you still have breath in your lungs.

Write a Will or Set Up a Trust: Don’t let people guess what you “would have wanted.” Spell it out clearly.

Appoint a Trustee: A professional trustee ensures everything goes smoothly, so your loved ones aren’t left fighting like characters in a Nollywood drama.

Review Regularly: Life changes. So should your estate plan. Divorce, marriage, new kids, or even just a change of heart. Regularly update your documents to reflect your current intentions.

Your wealth should be a blessing, not a burden to your loved ones. Don’t let assumptions or lack of planning leave your family stranded. Name your beneficiaries, set up an estate plan, and ensure your legacy is protected today.

Estate planning isn’t about how much you have; it’s about making sure what you have goes to the right people. Because the last thing you want is your family spending years arguing over your assets while some random uncle you’ve never heard of walks away with everything

Your next of kin is not your beneficiary. But with proper estate planning, they can be!

ARM Trustees is here to ensure your assets are in the right hand, and we are just a call away. Reach us today on 02012715002.

Start 2025 Strong: Why Your Business Needs Escrow

Hi There!

Welcome to 2025! New year, new deals, right? But before you pop the champagne on your next big business transaction, let’s talk about something that could save you a ton of stress: escrow services.

Imagine this: You’re closing a major deal, money’s on the line, and everyone’s handshake is as firm as January resolutions. But here’s the thing; what if the other party doesn’t deliver? Whether you’re buying or selling, trust is great, but protection is better.

That’s where escrow services come in, and at ARM Trustees, we’ve mastered the art of making your transactions as smooth as Lagos traffic on a public holiday.

What’s Escrow, Anyway?

Think of escrow as the dependable, drama-free friend you wish you had. Here’s how it works:

The buyer deposits money into an escrow account.
The seller delivers what’s been promised.
ARM Trustees steps in to check if everything’s legit. If all’s good, we release the funds to the seller.

No misunderstandings, no excuses, and definitely no awkward “where’s my money?” moments.

Why Should Your Business Care?

Because “trust me” doesn’t always cut it. Picture this: You’re acquiring software for your business, or selling property that funds your next big project. What happens if the code doesn’t work or the buyer ghosts you?

At ARM Trustees, we’re here to ensure your 2025 business deals come with fewer surprises and more success stories.

Why ARM Trustees?

At ARM Trustees, we don’t just handle assets, we protect aspirations. We’ve got the experience, the tools, and the smarts to keep your business secure.

Ready to make 2025 the year of smart, secure deals? Reach out to us today at 02012715002 . Let’s start this year with trust and security.