Theinvestigator news

Category: Business

  • Investing in Journalism Excellence: Polaris Bank Set To Host 2025 Media Capacity Seminar

    Investing in Journalism Excellence: Polaris Bank Set To Host 2025 Media Capacity Seminar

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Polaris Bank is set to host the 2025 edition of its Annual Media Capacity Seminar on July 17, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

    The seminar,themed “Empowering Journalists in the Digital Age: Storytelling, Tools & Transformation,” aims to equip journalists with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the evolving media landscape.

    Investigator news reports that the event will feature two distinguished facilitators: Taiwo Obe, Founder and Director of Journalism Clinic, and Abayomi Adisa, a Senior Journalist with the BBC.

    Now in its 11th year, Polaris Bank’s Media Capacity Seminar has grown into a flagship media education initiative supporting journalism excellence and professional development across Nigeria. Since its inception in 2015, the program has trained over 5,500 journalists, equipping them with the contemporary knowledge and tools needed to thrive in an evolving media landscape and AI era.

    The 2024 edition, held in a hybrid format, recorded over 500 participants and focused on “Integrating AI Tools in Contemporary Media Practices for Innovation and Excellence.” Participants gained insights into data journalism, fact-checking, multimedia storytelling, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the newsroom.

    Building on last year’s success, the 2025 edition will explore critical aspects of modern journalism, including digital storytelling, transformative newsroom practices, and emerging tools that can help journalists remain relevant in practice and impactful in today’s information age.

    Investigator news gathered that attendance at the seminar is free, but registration is mandatory. Interested participants can still register via bit.ly/PAMC2025.

    Polaris Bank remains committed to promoting responsible journalism through robust, consistent and premium media education and investing in initiatives that foster a more informed and progressive society.

     

  • Empowering Women At Work: How Union Bank’s Family-Friendly Revolution Is Setting New Standards

    Empowering Women At Work: How Union Bank’s Family-Friendly Revolution Is Setting New Standards

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    Union Bank of Nigeria stands at the forefront of the nation’s financial sector, leading the charge in promoting gender inclusivity and empowering women.

    With a rich legacy of innovation and dedication, the Bank is actively creating a more equitable and supportive environment for women, both within its own workforce and across the wider Nigerian community.

    Recently honoured as the ‘Family-Friendly Bank of the Year’ by The New Telegraph, Union Bank is raising the bar with progressive policies for customers and employees alike.

    Through its Alpher initiative, the Bank is investing in the future of female students, entrepreneurs, and professionals throughout Nigeria.

    Alpher offers bespoke financial services, career and business development opportunities, and exclusive lifestyle benefits designed to help women thrive.

    Union Bank’s strategic collaborations, such as its sponsorship of the Nigerian British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) Women and Youth Entrepreneurship Development Centre (WYEDC) programme, have enabled numerous entrepreneurs to graduate, access vital training, and secure grant opportunities.

    Within its own ranks, Union Bank set a new benchmark with a five-month fully paid maternity leave, complemented by the option to take annual leave.

    This policy, aligned with the United Nations SDG 3: ‘Good Health and Well-Being’, ensures that employees have the time and support they need to recover and bond with their families.

    The Bank’s internal women’s network, WeHub (Women Empowerment Hub), regularly hosts insightful events and discussions focused on bridging the digital gender divide and advancing the careers of female employees.

    Demonstrating further commitment to working parents, Union Bank has established a state-of-the-art Crèche at its Head Office in Marina, Lagos Island.

    Equipped with lactation rooms and family-friendly facilities, this initiative directly supports SDG 5: ‘Gender Equality’, enabling women to balance their professional and family responsibilities in a truly inclusive workplace.

    Union Bank’s comprehensive approach to gender inclusivity and empowerment solidifies its status as an industry leader, fostering a supportive internal environment while championing the advancement of women across multiple sectors.

    Be part of this journey towards a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria; choose Union Bank, where empowerment and progress go hand in hand.

  • Fidelity Bank Delivers Hope To Internally Displaced Persons In Benue

    Fidelity Bank Delivers Hope To Internally Displaced Persons In Benue

    …Distributes Food Packs And Relief Items To Over 2,000 People.

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    In a timely gesture aimed at improving the plight of internally displaced persons (IDP) in Benue State, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has distributed mattresses and essential food items to over 2,000 victims of the Yelwata attacks currently taking refuge at the Ultra-Modern International Market IDP Camp in Makurdi.

    The donation, which was carried out in collaboration with the Abbasid Charity Foundation, is part of Fidelity Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable communities through its flagship Fidelity Food Bank program. Since its launch in April 2023, the Food Bank has distributed over 200,000 food packs to beneficiaries across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.

    Speaking about the donation event, the bank’s Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh reaffirmed Fidelity Bank’s dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its mission to uplift communities.

    His words, “Since its launch, the Fidelity Food Bank initiative has helped to alleviate the effect of poverty and malnutrition across the country.

    We are honored to be back in Benue State to continue this impactful initiative, and we hope that today’s donation brings much-needed relief and comfort to the beneficiaries during this difficult time”.

    In her remarks, the Executive Officer, the Abbasid Charity Foundation, Mrs. Hawa Abbas, emphasized the importance of restoring dignity to the displaced, stating that the donation of mattresses was to ensure the IDPs no longer sleep on bare floors.

    “This gesture is our way of letting the displaced persons know that they are not forgotten. We care deeply for them, and we hope this donation offers some comfort and hope, even in these difficult circumstances,” Abbas noted.

    The Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. James Iorpuu, who was represented by Camp Manager, Mr. Robert Nyom, expressed deep appreciation to Fidelity Bank and the Abbasid Charity Foundation for their timely support.

    “Your intervention has brought much-needed relief to the camp and we thank you for your compassion and generosity towards improving the welfare of the displaced persons,” he said.

     

    The bank’s outreach to the International Market IDP Camp in Makurdi represents the most recent of its ongoing critical and timely interventions. Previously, through its Food Bank Initiative, the bank provided essential food items to more than 1,500 residents impacted by the recent flood disaster in Mokwa, Niger State.

    It will be recalled that Fidelity bank is ranked among the best banks in Nigeria. Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.

    Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

     

  • Union Bank Strengthens Public-Private Partnership At Maiden International Civil Service Conference.

    Union Bank Strengthens Public-Private Partnership At Maiden International Civil Service Conference.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Union Bank, one of the nation’s most respected financial institutions,
    reinforced its commitment to national progress as a proud partner of the inaugural International Civil Service Conference held on June 25 and 26, 2025 at the Eagle Square Arena, Abuja.

    The conference, themed “Rejuvenate, Innovate & Accelerate,” convened civil servants, policymakers, and development partners to drive reforms and digital transformation in Nigeria’s public service.

    Organised by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation and the Global Government Forum UK, the conference highlighted critical priorities such as strong inclusive leadership, fostering an agile and digital culture, and effective public service delivery structures that transcend organisational silos.

    These closely align with Union Bank’s expertise in delivering innovative digital banking solutions and supporting public sector efficiency.

    In a statement to the media, Mannir Ringim, Executive Director, North and Public Sector, said: “At Union Bank, we believe in the transformative power of public-private partnerships.

    Our support for this landmark conference underscores our dedication to modernising Nigeria’s civil service through innovative financial solutions and digital platforms that foster transparency and efficiency.”

    Union Bank’s participation reflects its leadership in public sector collaboration, and this support for the International Civil Service Conference attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and senior public sector leaders from across Africa, reinforces the Bank’s role as a key enabler of Nigeria’s development and sustainable economic growth.

    It will be recalled that Union Bank of Nigeria Plc was established in 1917, Union Bank is a leading provider of financial services in Nigeria,
    renowned for its “Simpler, Smarter Banking” philosophy.

    With a nationwide network and a strong focus on digital innovation, Union Bank continues to empower individuals, businesses, and the public sector to achieve lasting success.

    The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria. The Bank offers various banking services to individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance.

    The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.

    More information can be found at: www.unionbankng.comMedia Enquiries: Favour Ayeni+234 (0) 201 271 6800mediarelations@unionbankng.com

  • Union Bank Strengthens Sustainability Leadership With Symposium And School Recycle Bin Donations On World Environment Day 2025 .

    Union Bank Strengthens Sustainability Leadership With Symposium And School Recycle Bin Donations On World Environment Day 2025 .

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, a leading advocate for environmental sustainability and ESG in Africa, marked World Environment Day 2025 by partnering with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) to host a high-impact symposium themed “Ending Plastic Pollution” at the Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos.

    The event brought together corporate leaders, environmental experts, and stakeholders to address the urgent challenge of plastic pollution and champion innovative solutions for a cleaner future.

    The symposium featured thought-provoking discussions on the environmental and economic risks posed by plastic waste.

    Speaking at the event, Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Olufunmilola Aluko, said, “At Union Bank, sustainability goes beyond banking.

    We are dedicated to empowering communities with knowledge and resources, like recycling initiatives to tackle plastic pollution and rejuvenate our environment.”

    In line with this commitment, Union Bank extended its impact through an educational outreach in Lagos secondary schools, donating recycling bins and raising awareness about environmental preservation among young Nigerians.

    These efforts are part of the bank’s broader UnionCares platform, which drives impactful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives across Nigeria.

    The bank remains steadfast in promoting ethical business practices, social responsibility, and sustainable community development.

    It will be recalled that Union bank was founded in 1917. Union Bank is a pioneer in the Nigerian financial industry, renowned for its “Simpler, Smarter Banking” and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals, businesses, and communities through innovative solutions and sustainable initiatives.

    The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria. The Bank offers various banking services to individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance.

    The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.

    More information can be found at: www.unionbankng.com

     

  • Fidelity Bank Extends Relief Efforts to Eti-Osa Community With Food Bank Initiative

    Fidelity Bank Extends Relief Efforts to Eti-Osa Community With Food Bank Initiative

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    As part of its unwavering commitment to reducing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable communities, Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution, has distributed food packs to residents of Victoria Island in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos as part of its nationwide Fidelity Food Bank initiative.

    This initiative, which attracted beneficiaries from diverse backgrounds, forms a key pillar of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy and reinforces its dedication to driving meaningful impact across Nigerian communities.

    Speaking during the distribution event, Mr. Adebayo Adeyinka, Executive Technical Assistant to the Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, emphasized the long-term impact of the initiative. “The Fidelity Food Bank was established to address the pressing challenges of poverty, hunger, malnutrition, and infant and maternal mortality within our communities,” he said.

    “It aligns with Goal No. 2 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – Zero Hunger – and reflects our long-term commitment to improving lives across the country. From IDP camps to flood-affected regions like Niger State, this is a nationwide outreach that we are proud to continue,” Adeyinka added.

    Also present at the event was the Divisional Head, Operations, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Henry Asiegbu, who highlighted the growing support and impact of the program.

    “This intervention has been positively received at all levels – from community members to government and partner organizations,” he noted. “The support has been overwhelming, and it encourages us to sustain and expand the initiative further.”

    For many of the community members, the gesture offered more than just nourishment – it restored dignity and hope. Victoria Olubiyo, resident and representative of the members of the community, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Fidelity Bank has brought joy to our lives. Even during the no-cash crisis, their ATMs were always working. They’ve provided boreholes, fulfilled their promises, and shown genuine care. Today, people – men, women, children, even those living with disabilities – are supported. I urge other banks to follow their example.”

    Another beneficiary, Jerome Igbe, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This means so much to struggling families. I honestly didn’t expect this kind of support. May God bless them and replenish their resources.”

    Through initiatives like the Fidelity Food Bank, the bank continues to demonstrate its role as a socially responsible corporate organisation committed to impacting Nigerians positively.

    Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • Fidelity Bank Promotes 12% Of Workforce And Increases Salaries By 20% Across Board.

    Fidelity Bank Promotes 12% Of Workforce And Increases Salaries By 20% Across Board.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Fidelity Bank Plc, one of Nigeria’s top-tier financial institutions, has promoted 376 employees following its recently concluded annual performance review exercise.

    This represents approximately 12% of the bank’s workforce, underscoring its management’s deep appreciation for the pivotal role played by staff in recoding the highest growth by percentage volumes in the banking industry with 210% increase in its Profit Before Tax (PBT) which grew from N124.3 billion in 2023 to N385.2 billion in 2024.

    The announcement, which was recently communicated internally, comes on the heels of a 20% across-the-board salary increase implemented in June 2025—a gesture that reflects the bank’s commitment to staff welfare.

    It is worth noting that this follows a similar salary adjustment carried out in November 2024.

    Under the leadership of Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Fidelity Bank has consistently outperformed market expectations.

    In 2024, the bank recorded the highest share price growth of 116% in the industry following the completion of its Public Offer which was over subscribed by 238% .

    In recognition of the banks stellar performance, global rating agency, Fitch Ratings recently upgraded Fidelity Bank’s National Long-Term Rating from ‘A(nga)’ to ‘A+(nga)’ in a further endorsement of the bank’s financial strength and prudent management.

    The upgraded ratings reflects improved profitability metrics and robust capital buffers, reinforcing the bank’s sustained upward trajectory.

  • Fidelity Bank MD Not Implicated In Woobs Resources Fraud Case

    Fidelity Bank MD Not Implicated In Woobs Resources Fraud Case

    Felicia Asuquo 

    Fidelity Bank has debunked the reports published by Sahara Reporters on June 25 which claimed that the Managing Director, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe was a party to an ongoing case involving fraud on Woobs Resources account with the bank.

    A statement from the bank stated that this is however not true.

    According to the bank, the charge sheet dated 12 May 2025 stated that the Defendants in the suit were Victor Ukutt, Esq, Fidelity Bank Plc, Whoba Ugwunna Ogo and Safiya Whoba.

    It will be recalled that the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice issued a press release on 9 June 2025 explaining that Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s name was struck off the charge as she was neither the account officer nor the Managing Director of the Bank when the account used in the alleged scheme of fraud was opened

    Investigator news reports that this clarification confirms that Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe is not party to the ongoing case, contrary to Sahara Reporters

     

     

  • Fidelity Bank Partners With Ashoka To Empower Young Innovators

    Fidelity Bank Partners With Ashoka To Empower Young Innovators

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    As part of its commitment to youth empowerment and social impact, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc has partnered with Ashoka, a global network of social entrepreneurs, to provide financial support and mentorship to young innovators across Nigeria.

    Speaking at the 2025 Ashoka Young Changemakers Festival in Lagos, the Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank, Osita Ede, reaffirmed the Bank’s dedication to youth empowerment, emphasizing its place as a pillar of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy.

    “Empowerment is at the core of everything Fidelity Bank stands for,” Ede said. “Creativity and innovation are fundamental to our brand essence and that is why we are excited to support these young changemakers.

    Listening to their ideas today just validates the investments we have made to foster entrepreneurship and creativity.”

    Ede confirmed the bank’s willingness to continue funding and supporting the dreams of young people, adding that the bank plans to offer innovators access to its SME Hub’s resources and specialized master classes designed to nurture their growth.

    “We are not just funding initiatives; we are creating an enabling environment where these young innovators can thrive.

    “Our SME Hub will serve as a platform to guide and mentor these changemakers, helping them develop the right mindset and business acumen to succeed,” Ede stated.

    On her part, Josephine Nzerem, Regional Director, Ashoka Anglophone West Africa & Director, Venture and Talent, Ashoka Africa, expressed her appreciation for the partnership.

    “We are excited to move beyond being just Fidelity Bank’s clients to becoming true partners in the change making movement,” Nzerem stated. “Their continuous support which includes funding for awards and gift packs for young innovators, is vital for sustaining this journey.

    We celebrate not only the Changemakers but also the process of empowering young people to scale their impact and inspire others.”

    The Ashoka Young Changemakers Festival celebrates bold ideas, youth leadership, and innovation. The 2025 edition unveiled nine remarkable changemakers poised to transform Nigeria’s future.

    Together, Fidelity Bank and Ashoka are creating opportunities for young innovators to turn their ideas into solutions that can transform their communities and the world.

    It will be recalled that Fidelity bank is ranked among the best banks in Nigeria. Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.

    Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • Fidelity Bank Uplifts Old People’s Home With Essential Items Donation

    Fidelity Bank Uplifts Old People’s Home With Essential Items Donation

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    A leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to corporate social responsibility with the donation of food and essential items to the Old People’s Home in Yaba, Lagos.

    The donation was made possible through the generosity of the bank’s Nexus Inductees Class, under its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative known as the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP).

    Through the FHHP, staff across Fidelity Bank branches nationwide identify crucial interventions needed in their immediate community and raise funds to execute them. The bank’s management then matches this contribution with an equal amount and disburses it for the selected project.

    Commenting on the donation, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, emphasized the bank’s unwavering commitment to impacting its host communities positively noting that the community is an essential part of the bank success story.

    “Today’s donation is a token of our appreciation for our incredible parents and guardians who have raised outstanding individuals that trust us with their banking needs. Our donation to the Old People’s Home reflects our deep commitment to supporting the well-being and dignity of our senior citizens.

    We are honored to contribute to a cause that ensures they receive the care, comfort, and respect they deserve.” Nwagboh stated.

    Appreciating the gesture from the bank, the Director-in-Charge of the Home in Yaba, Adetutu Ipaye, said “Community support initiatives such as this from Fidelity Bank is vital to sustaining our mission and enhancing the quality of life for the elderly.

    We urge other organizations to follow in the Bank’s footsteps as this kind of support will go a long way to ensure that the elderly live with dignity and comfort”.

    One of the beneficiaries from the home, Mr. Kamoru Adeyetu noted that, “Your presence today has brought us immense joy, and our greatest happiness lies in seeing the younger generation thrive. Beyond the gifts, your visit means the world to us and please remember to visit us regularly.”

    Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

     

    The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.