WSA: Carrot.ng emerges only Nigerian startup shortlisted by UN

BY: Sandra Ani

For its outstanding innovation, Carrot.ng has been shortlisted by the United Nations’ World Summits Awards as one of the ‘40 Most Innovative Startups’ in 2018.

The company, which was shortlisted from among 400 companies that participated in the competition from all over the world, is the only Nigerian startup on the list.  

The founders of Carrot, Luqman Balogun and Odunayo Williams, expressed delight at being shortlisted for the prestigious awards which came up in Cascais, Portugal, between March 11 and 13, 2019.

In a statement made available to journalists, Balogun and Williams said the shortlist proved that Carrot offered unique services capable of solving inheritance challenges.

“Estate planning is a very serious issue in Nigeria as most of us would have experienced the negative impact, especially on women and children, when our parents, family members, friends, colleagues, etc, die intestate (without a Will). 

“We can reasonably deduce that intestacy accounts for about $10bn ‘trapped’ in dormant accounts, treasury bills, unclaimed dividends, unclaimed insurance policies, pension funds, NHF, NSITF, etc, in the financial system. You will also agree that getting a letter of administration is not a ‘walk in a park’, “ the statement read. 

It added, “Carrot.ng is here to correct this narrative and we have simplified access to writing a Will online. It is convenient, affordable and secure. Between 10 and 15 minutes, your Will is completed and Carrot.ng will deliver the document to your home or office as well as process at Probate after execution. Everyone over 18 years old must have a Will irrespective of your  societal status, religion or tribe.”

The company encouraged Nigerians to protect their legacies and cautioned them to prepare for uncertainties.

“Life is so full of uncertainties; hence, there is a need to consider having an estate plan to mitigate expected and unexpected challenges associated with securing the financial future for your loved ones.

“Putting in place a valid Will offers adequate protection of your legacies, especially for those you truly love should the need arise. An estate plan helps you realise the famous saying of ‘what we do in life echoes in eternity,” it said. 

It added, “Carrot.ng helps you to create, update and schedule execution of your Wills and or other testamentary instruments such as Deed of Gifts, Living Wills, Trusts and Power of Attorney, etc, on a convenient, affordable and secure platform in real time, anywhere. 

“For a one-time fee, you can become a subscriber, create a valid Will in few minutes, and we process at Probate and have it delivered to your desired location. All our subscribers are also rewarded with a free Personal Accident Cover and Medical Expense Cover from our insurance partners.”