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Category: Business

  • Fidelity Bank Supports Quality Education Delivery In Makoko

    Fidelity Bank Supports Quality Education Delivery In Makoko

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Tier-one lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to community development and educational empowerment with the donation of essential learning materials to schoolchildren in Makoko Community, Yaba, Lagos under its Fidelity Helping Hands Program (FHHP).

    The outreach, which was facilitated by the bank’s Legal Services Division, saw the presentation of school bags, notebooks, mathematical sets, writing materials, and other learning materials to pupils of Makoko Anglican Nursery and Primary School; Aiyetoro Nursery and Primary School, and Adekunle Anglican Nursery and Primary School in Lagos.

    Speaking during the presentation, Divisional Head of Legal Services, Fidelity Bank Plc, Kingsley Ohiri, explained that the gesture forms part of Fidelity Bank’s broader CSR initiatives centered on empowering young people, supporting education, and enhancing social welfare in vulnerable communities.

    “The Fidelity Helping Hands Program is our staff volunteer program that enables employees to identify and execute impactful CSR projects,” he said.

    “Through this program, staff volunteers from the Legal Services Division are here today in Makoko to distribute back-to-school materials such as school bags, notebooks, pencils and other essential learning tools. This aligns strongly with one of our CSR pillars: education.”

    Ohiri further emphasized the bank’s focus on improving access to quality education for children in public schools, especially those from indigent backgrounds.

    “Over 500 school bags, more than 2,000 exercise books and several other learning items were distributed today.

    We at Fidelity Bank are proud to give back to Makoko community. We believe that by supporting these pupils with the tools they need to learn, we are helping to build a stronger future for the pupils, the community and Nigeria,” Ohiri added.

    Aimed at enhancing the learning experience of children in one of Lagos’ most underserved riverine communities, the gesture received warm appreciation from school leaders, teachers, and parents who expressed gratitude for the bank’s support.

    “We sincerely appreciate Fidelity Bank for selecting our school as one of the beneficiaries. This gesture will go a long way in helping our pupils improve academically.

    Recognizing students who placed 1st to 10th in their classes is also a great motivation for our children”, stated the Head Teacher of Adekunle Nursery and Primary School, Mrs. Tinubu Abimbola.

    Similarly, the School Manager of Makoko Anglican Nursery and Primary School, Mr. Laoye Joseph, described the donation as a profound act of compassion and responsibility, saying,

    “We truly appreciate Fidelity Bank and the continuous support for the educational development of our children. Many families here struggle to provide basic learning materials due to economic hardship, so this intervention is highly impactful. We pray that God continues to uplift the bank.”

    Teachers present at the event also noted that many pupils often attend classes without basic supplies, a challenge that affects participation and performance.

    They commended Fidelity Bank for easing the financial burden on parents, especially amid rising household expenses.

    Through FHHP, Fidelity Bank Plc’s staff identify impactful projects in their communities and raise funds to support them. The bank’s management matches these contributions, amplifying their reach and impact.

    Investigator news reports 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 Extends Support To Oluyole Cheshire Home In Ibadan.

    Fidelity Bank Extends Support To Oluyole Cheshire Home In Ibadan.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    In the spirit of the festive season, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive community support through a charitable outreach to Oluyole Cheshire Home, Ibadan.

    The visit, carried out through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), provided food items and essential supplies to children living with disabilities at the home.

    Speaking at the outreach, the Divisional Head, Brand and Communications Division, Meksley Nwagboh, emphasized that the exercise was not just an act of seasonal giving but part of the bank’s broader mission to advance social inclusion and welfare.

    “Under the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme, our staff-led CSR initiative, we empower our employees to participate in community development projects; and one of such projects is our donation here today to the Home.

    “This Home caters to children with special needs who are some of the most deprived members of our society and we just want to contribute our quota towards their welfare,” Nwagboh said.

    He further explained that the outreach which was spearheaded by the Visionary Team of newly inducted employees, forms a key component of Fidelity Bank’s onboarding programme.

    Through this platform, new staff are introduced to the bank’s CSR values and immediately tasked with identifying and executing impactful community projects.

    “At Fidelity Bank, our CSR pillars are education, health, social welfare, the environment, and youth empowerment; and we ensure every new staff member is grounded in these principles,” he added.

    “The Visionary Team has done an excellent job by showing that beyond banking, we owe society a duty of care.”

    Items donated to the home include foodstuffs, toiletries and other essential supplies intended to ease the home’s operating costs during the festive season and beyond.

    Receiving the items on behalf of the home, Caregiver and a senior representative for the Home, Mr. Jimoh Taiwo, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture while calling on Nigerians and organisations to emulate such acts of kindness.

    “We sincerely appreciate Fidelity Bank for this gesture. It means a lot to the children and to the home,” he said. “We want other stakeholders to support us like Fidelity Bank has done.

    Well-meaning individuals and organisations should emulate this gesture by putting smiles on the faces of the less privileged during this period.”

    With this outreach, Fidelity Bank continues to strengthen its legacy of community support, inclusion, and shared progress—demonstrating that impactful giving remains at the heart of its corporate culture.

    Investigator news reports that Fidelity 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 Gets New Chairman As Onwughalu Takes Helm.

    Fidelity Bank Gets New Chairman As Onwughalu Takes Helm.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Fidelity Bank Plc has announced the appointment of Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu as its new Chairman, effective January 1, 2026, following the completion of Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi’s tenure.

    The board transitions are in alignment with the Bank’s policy and have been communicated to the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigerian Exchange Group, and other stakeholders.

    Under Chike-Obi’s leadership, Fidelity Bank achieved significant milestones, including repaying its Eurobond,completed the first tranche of its public offer and rights issue that were oversubscribed by 237 percent and 137.73 percent respectively, expanded internationally to the United Kingdom, and received improved ratings from various agencies amongst a long list of achievements.

    His tenure also saw the Bank strengthen its capital position, record steady growth in customer deposits and total assets, deepen its digital banking capabilities, and enhance its corporate and investment banking proposition.

    The bank equally made notable progress in governance, risk management, and operational efficiency, all of which contributed to strengthened market confidence and the Bank’s sustained upward performance trajectory.

    Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi said, “It has been a privilege to serve as Chairman of Fidelity Bank. The dedication of our Board, management, and staff has enabled us to reach significant milestones.

    I am confident that the Bank will continue to thrive and deliver value to all stakeholders.”

    Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu’s appointment marks a new chapter for Fidelity Bank. She joined the Board in December 2020 and has chaired key committees. With over 30 years of banking experience, including executive roles at Mainstreet Bank Limited and Skye Bank Plc.

    She holds degrees in Economics, Corporate Governance, and Business Administration, and has attended executive programmes at global institutions. Mrs. Onwughalu is a Fellow of several professional bodies and has received awards for accountability and financial management.

    “I am honoured to lead the Board of Fidelity Bank at this exciting time. Our recent achievements have set a strong foundation for continued growth. I look forward to working with my colleagues to drive our strategy and deliver sustainable value,” commented Mrs. Onwughalu.

    Investigator news reports 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 Advances Sustainable Firefighting Practices With Donation Of Hoses And Water Pumps.

    Fidelity Bank Advances Sustainable Firefighting Practices With Donation Of Hoses And Water Pumps.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Fidelity Bank Plc has reinforced its commitment to community safety and sustainable ecological practices through the donation of essential firefighting and preventive equipment including hoses and gasoline water pumps to the Ikoyi Fire Service Station in Lagos.

    The donation was made under the Fidelity Helping Hands Program (FHHP) by the True Serve team, reaffirming the Bank’s commitment to the environment and community safety. Through the FHHP, members of staff identify areas of critical community needs, raise funds, and then receive matching monetary support from the bank to execute the projects.

    Commenting on the reason behind the donation, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications Division, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, emphasized that the donation reflects the bank’s dedication to strengthening emergency response capabilities and promoting public safety within the communities it serves.

    According to him, “Fidelity Bank remains committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to the protection of our environment, lives and property. We see community safety as a shared responsibility and continuously extend support to both corporate bodies and individuals.”

    Dr Nwagboh further noted that, “We believe that preventive measures are far more effective than reactionary responses. This donation is part of our efforts to drive sustainable practices by providing the necessary tools. Our goal is to ensure that people live meaningful, safe, and empowered lives.”

    In her comments, Lagos State Controller, Federal Fire Service and Controller of Fire (CF), Funke Adebayo commended Fidelity Bank for the timely support, while cautioning residents to exercise heightened vigilance during the festive period, especially with the dry weather conditions.

    “We appreciate Fidelity Bank for this timely donation. We are in a harsh weather period where fire incidents can escalate quickly. Parents must educate and caution children against the use of fireworks during celebrations. Fire should never be treated carelessly,” Adebayo said.

    She noted that the Fire Service has embarked on sensitization visits to various corporate organizations, warning against unsafe practices that could lead to preventable fire outbreaks.

    On his part, Area Commander, Onikan Fire Station and Chief Superintendent of Fire (CSF)Oswere Michael expressed appreciation to Fidelity Bank for supporting their operations. He encouraged families, business owners, and community members to prioritize fire safety at all times.

    “Everyone has a role to play in preventing fire incidents at home and in the workplace. This support from Fidelity Bank will go a long way in enhancing our capacity to protect the community,” CSF Oswere added.

    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 LimiteThe 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 Enhances Maternal And Child Healthcare Delivery At ESUTH

    Fidelity Bank Enhances Maternal And Child Healthcare Delivery At ESUTH

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Fidelity Bank Plc has brought relief to indigent patients at the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH) Parklane, by offsetting medical bills and providing financial support to children battling chronic health conditions alongside donations of ante-natal kits to pregnant women.

     

    The intervention, which was carried out under the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative known as Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), was funded and executed by newly inducted employees of the bank, the Optimizers Inductees Class, as their community impact project, with matching financial support from the bank.

    Commenting on the outreach, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications Division, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, highlighted that the initiative underscores the bank’s commitment to improving lives through targeted social interventions across its four CSR pillars.

    “This project reflects the spirit of who we are as a bank. Beyond providing financial services, we are committed to touching lives within the communities where we operate.

    Today, we are donating ante-natal kits to pregnant women and also supporting indigent patients who have remained in the hospital due to unpaid bills.

    Some of the children also require long-term medical care, so we have given additional financial support to aid their continued treatment,” Dr Nwagboh said.

    Whilst wishing the beneficiaries quick recovery and good health, Nwagboh described the intervention as both significant and timely, enabling many families to reunite and celebrate the festive season without the burden of outstanding hospital debts.

    Receiving the donation, the Chief Matron of the Children’s Ward, Esther Nnaji, commended Fidelity Bank for the timely intervention, describing it as a lifeline for families grappling with rising healthcare costs.

    “There are so many families here in desperate need. Some of the children are battling cancer, sickle cell disease and other chronic conditions.

    Fidelity Bank’s support will go a long way in relieving their pain. Because of what you have done, some of these children will now be able to see their siblings again,” she said.

    Several beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude to Fidelity Bank for easing their financial burdens. Mrs. Adaeze Ilo, whose baby’s bill was cleared, said the support came at a moment of despair.

    “After spending months in the hospital, we had no idea how to raise the money,” she said. “Fidelity Bank came through for us when we needed it the most. We are deeply grateful.”

    Another relieved parent, Jane Anthony, whose son’s bill was cleared, said her family had already accepted that they would spend Christmas in the hospital.

    “God used Fidelity Bank to send us home to enjoy Christmas. My heart is full.” she said.

    The recent outreach to Enugu State University Teaching Hospital further highlights Fidelity Bank’s continued commitment to supporting vulnerable groups and strengthening community well-being across Nigeria through community-driven CSR efforts.

    It will be recalled that Fidelity bank Plc is ranked among the best banks in Nigeria,it 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.

  • Polaris Bank Distributes Hygiene Essentials To Lagos Schoolgirls, Empowering Confidence and Health.

    Polaris Bank Distributes Hygiene Essentials To Lagos Schoolgirls, Empowering Confidence and Health.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Polaris Bank has continued its commitment to empowering the Nigerian girl-child through health education and essential support, with the successful distribution of female hygiene essentials to female students of Kuramo and Victoria Island Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, Lagos.

    The initiative, part of the Bank’s 2025 International Women’s Day celebration, aims to improve menstrual hygiene education, build confidence and dignity among young girls, and reduce school absenteeism resulting from lack of access to sanitary products.

    Through the Bank’s Girl-Child Support and Hygiene Education Initiative, the outreach aims to improve menstrual hygiene education, build confidence and dignity among young girls, and reduce school absenteeism resulting from lack of access to sanitary products.

    Speaking at the event, Group Head, Customer Experience & Value Management, Polaris Bank, Mrs. Bukola Oluyadi, delivered a practical health talk to the girls, emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper hygiene during their menstrual cycle and in their daily lives.

    She advised the students on essential personal care practices including the appropriate use of sanitary pads, the importance of daily use of clean underwear, and maintaining good body hygiene with deodorants and regular washing, especially during puberty when their bodies are developing.

    “Your body is precious, and how you take care of it determines your confidence and wellbeing,” Mrs. Oluyadi told the students. “Good hygiene is not just about looking clean; it is about staying healthy, feeling comfortable, and showing up confidently in school and everywhere you go.”

    She also encouraged the girls to cultivate life-long healthy habits, be informed about their bodies, and speak confidently about their health needs.

    Also present at the distribution was the Non-Executive Director of Polaris Bank, Mrs. Subulade Giwa-Amu, who delivered a powerful motivational session on self-care, confidence, and self-presentation.

    In her address, she reminded the girls that taking care of their appearance and hygiene contributes significantly to building a successful future.

    “A clean girl equals a successful woman,” Mrs. Giwa-Amu affirmed. “Success is not only about your academic performance; it is also about how you present yourself. People see you before they know you, and first impressions always last. Loving yourself and caring for yourself should be a daily habit.”

    She further encouraged the students to build confidence from within, stay self-assured, and always be conscious of their personal hygiene as young girls stepping into womanhood.
    “Confidence starts with knowing who you are and being proud of yourself,” she added.

    “When you take care of your body, you build respect for yourself, and others see that confidence reflected in how you speak, walk, and show up in the world.”

    Polaris Bank’s support for the girl-child aligns with the Bank’s broader Sustainability and CSR strategy, which includes empowering young girls through education, access to essential learning materials, and social support systems that improve their health and academic performance.

    The Bank believes that sustained investment in girls’ wellbeing ensures equal opportunity, reduces school dropout rates, and helps drive long-term social and economic development.

    The female hygiene essentials distribution initiative directly addresses barriers that affect school attendance among adolescent girls, especially those who lack access to basic hygiene products.

    By equipping students with knowledge and materials, Polaris Bank is helping to normalize conversations around menstruation, reduce stigma, and support healthier outcomes for young girls.

     

     

     

     

  • Polaris Bank, Evolve Charity Trust Empower 1,000 Students With School Essentials

    Polaris Bank, Evolve Charity Trust Empower 1,000 Students With School Essentials

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Polaris Bank, in partnership with Evolve Charity Trust, has successfully concluded its 2025 nationwide distribution of school essentials to 1,000 students across ten public secondary schools in five states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The initiative is part of the Bank’s sustained Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts to keep more children, especially the girl child, in school.

    This year’s exercise adds to a growing intervention that has supported more than 24,000 students in public schools across 49 locations since 2021.

    This year’s beneficiaries received a complete learning kit consisting of a school uniform, school bag, a pair of sandals, six exercise books and pens. According to school authorities, these materials continue to improve attendance, boost confidence and support academic performance.

    In delivering the programme, Polaris Bank also stimulated the local economy by sourcing uniforms from local tailors, procuring books from bookshops and purchasing sandals and bags from community traders, thereby supporting small businesses across the beneficiary states.

    Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Kayode Lawal, reaffirmed the Bank’s five-year promise to champion the education of Nigeria’s girl child, noting that the materials are symbols of belief in the students’ potential to become scholars, innovators and future leaders.

    School administrators across the country expressed gratitude for the timely support, noting that the essentials meet real and urgent needs, ease the burden on families and positively impact academic performance. Many students come from homes where parents cannot afford these items and the gesture has restored pride among beneficiaries.

    Representatives of the Bank reiterated their commitment to improving access to education, championing access to quality learning, and encouraging students to make the best use of the materials and stay committed to success.

    The 2025 distribution covered the following schools: Government Girls Secondary School, Kundila, Kano; Model Junior Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja; Government Junior Secondary School, Area 10, Garki, Abuja; Fortune Secondary School, Lokoja, Kogi State; National High School, Arondizuogu, Imo State; Iheme Memorial Secondary School, Iheme, Imo State; Akokwa High School, Akokwa, Imo State; Opebi Junior Grammar School, Opebi, Lagos; Gbaja Girls Junior Secondary School, Surulere, Lagos; and Gbaja Girls Senior Secondary School, Surulere, Lagos.

    Expressing gratitude for the timely support, Hajiya Aisha Shehu Yakasai, Principal of Government Girls Secondary School in Kundila, Kano, said the essentials “meet real and urgent needs” and have eased the burden on families. Aso, Madam Maji-Abu Omanyo Esther, Principal of Fortune Secondary School, Lokoja, described the gesture as one that “brought joy and will positively impact academic performance.”

    Commending the Bank for restoring pride among beneficiaries, Mrs. Erdoo Lortyom, Vice Principal at Model Junior Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja, noted that many students come from homes where parents cannot afford these items while Mrs. Dabiri Nwabuoku Adetoun Iyabo, Principal of Gbaja Girls Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, Surulere, thanked Polaris Bank for its “consistent yearly gesture,” assuring that the materials will be put to excellent use.

    Representatives of the Bank reiterated their commitment to improving access to education.

    In Kano, Branch Head, Mr. Madiebo Godwin, reaffirmed the Bank’s dedication to “championing access to quality learning,” while in Lokoja, Business Development Manager, David Ojonugwa, encouraged students to “make the best use of the materials and stay committed to success.”

    Speaking in Imo State, the Bank’s Business Development Manager for Urualla Branch, Mr. Peter Nnamani, urged students to aim high, noting that every career dream “begins with dedication in school.”

    Project Manager of Evolve Charity Trust, Mr. Godwin Ejeh, noted that investing in a child’s education “lights a candle that brightens entire communities,” noting the ripple effect witnessed across states visited during the distribution.

    The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 5: Gender Equality, by promoting inclusive access to education and reducing gender-based barriers that keep girls out of school.

    Polaris Bank affirmed its continued commitment to partnering with credible development organisations to deliver sustainable educational impact across Nigeria.

  • Fidelity Bank To Host Virtual Master Class On New Tax Law.

    Fidelity Bank To Host Virtual Master Class On New Tax Law.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution, will host a free virtual training on the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 (NTA) as part of its commitment to helping small businesses prepare for the upcoming legislation.

    The masterclass is scheduled for 10:00 AM (Nigerian time) on Friday, 12 December 2025. It will provide participants with clear insights into changes in the tax framework, the impact on income and business operations, and practical steps to avoid penalties in 2026.

    Attendees will also learn strategies to stay ahead in an evolving regulatory environment.

    The Nigerian government enacted major tax reforms on 26 June 2025 when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed four tax bills into law.

    These Acts will take effect on 1 January 2026 and represent a significant overhaul of the country’s tax system. The reforms aim to modernize and harmonize Nigeria’s tax framework, improve revenue generation, broaden the tax base, and create clearer rules for individuals, businesses, and government agencies.

    “Our decision to host this masterclass reflects our commitment to empowering businesses with the right information ahead of the commencement of the new tax regime.

    Information is money and a well-informed business owner is already steps ahead in the race to success. This is why we are bringing experts to provide accurate details and demystify the tax act,” said Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development, Fidelity Bank Plc.

    Interested participants can register via https://bit.ly/2026TaxLawMasterclass .

  • Sterling Bank Partners Pan Atlantic University’s EDC

    Sterling Bank Partners Pan Atlantic University’s EDC

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Lagos, Nigeria – Sterling Bank Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) to certify graduates of its Non-Oil Export Academy.

    This strategic partnership underscores the Bank’s commitment to diversifying Nigeria’s economy by supporting non-oil export growth.

    This landmark agreement follows the recent launch of the Sterling Bank Non-Oil Export Academy, designed to position Nigerian exporters for global competitiveness.

    The launch was preceded by a series of nationwide training programs in Lagos, Ondo, and Kano states, culminating in a grand finale themed “Excel in Non-Oil Export.”

    The initiative aims to equip exporters with practical tools to thrive in international markets, thereby reducing Nigeria’s reliance on oil revenues.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lagos, Sterling Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, affirmed that the Bank is intentional about creating an ecosystem where non-oil exporters are well-informed and equipped to advance national interests.

    “We are not just training people to understand how to export; we want to train them to be competitive exporters of non-oil products,” Suleiman said.

    “Our goal is to build a community of knowledgeable, certified, and confident exporters who can collaborate to solve challenges beyond their immediate capacity.

    Our North Star is to reach a point where hundreds of people have completed this programme and are ready to compete on a global scale.”

    Dr. Nneka Okekearu, Director of the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration.

    “Having spent the last twenty-three years deepening the competencies of entrepreneurs, we thoroughly understand what is needed and are excited to be part of this initiative,” she
    noted.

    Dr. Okekearu emphasized that the export market has been neglected for too
    long. “With the right structure, standards, and mindset in place, entrepreneurs passing through this programme will help create not only a better Nigeria but more sustainable communities,”

    she added, noting that she looks forward to the case studies that will emerge from the programme’s participants.

    Beyond sectoral outcomes, the initiative reinforces Sterling Bank’s commitment to support the development of human capital that positively shapes and impacts the wider economy.

    The Academy will run four cohorts within the year, commencing in 2026.

    With this partnership, Sterling Bank and the Enterprise Development Centre are
    laying the foundation for a new generation of globally competitive Nigerian exporters, professionals equipped not only with knowledge, but with the certification, confidence, and networks needed to scale.

    As both institutions align their expertise to strengthen non-oil export capacity,
    this collaboration signals a bold step toward a more resilient, inclusive, and
    diversified economy.

    The Non-Oil Export Academy therefore serves as a catalyst for national transformation, empowering businesses and communities to unlock Nigeria’s full potential on the world stage.

    Investigator news reports that Sterling Bank Limited is a full-service national commercial bank in Nigeria and a member of Sterling Financial Holdings Group.

    With a heritage of more than 60 years, the bank has evolved from Nigeria’s pre-eminent investment banking institution to a trusted provider of retail, commercial, and corporate banking services.

    Sterling is a forward-thinking financial institution committed to transforming lives through innovative solutions, exceptional service, unwavering integrity, and a steadfast focus on its HEART strategy, which centers on Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation. As pioneers in digital banking and financial inclusion, Sterling continues to lead by example, showing how purpose-driven leadership can deliver transformative outcomes for individuals, businesses, and society at large.

    Guided by a culture of innovation and a passion for excellence, Sterling Bank remains dedicated to redefining the banking experience for millions of customers across Nigeria.

     

  • Fidelity Bank Receives Customs Service Award For Pioneering Role In UCMS Implementation

    Fidelity Bank Receives Customs Service Award For Pioneering Role In UCMS Implementation

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    Fidelity Bank’s leadership in digital innovation and public sector collaboration has once again been spotlighted as the tier-one lender was honoured at the Comptroller General of Customs Award Night 2025.

    At the ceremony, which took place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel Grand Ballroom, Abuja, on Friday, 21 November 2025, Fidelity Bank was presented with a prestigious award by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for being the first bank to successfully process Customs Duty and the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) on the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS).

    The award, presented under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi (MFR), serves as a formal recognition of the bank’s “Distinctive Performance and Commitment to the Ideals and Vision of the Nigeria Customs Service.”

    Receiving the award on behalf of the bank, the Executive Director, FCT & North, Mr. Sufiyanu Garba, stated, “This award is a testament to our commitment to operational excellence and our resolve to support the digital transformation of Nigeria’s trade and customs ecosystem.

    We are proud to be at the forefront of this historic milestone and remain dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that drive Nigeria’s economic development.”

    The bank’s quick adoption of the UCMS stems from its vision for a truly seamless and borderless African trade. Earlier this year, the bank officially launched the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), following a successful onboarding and over N46 billion in early transactions.

    PAPSS enables instant, local currency cross-border payments across Africa, particularly benefiting SMEs. By integrating PAPSS into its core operations, Fidelity Bank continues to dismantle trade barriers, empower businesses, and expand its impact across the continent.

    This latest recognition by the Nigeria Customs Service adds to Fidelity Bank’s impressive streak of achievements in 2025, including its double win as “Best Bank for Export & Trade Finance” and “Most Innovative Bank of the Year” at the BusinessDay Bank and Other Financial Institutions’ (BAFI) Awards.

    These accolades underscore the bank’s commitment to empowering businesses, driving innovation, and supporting Nigeria’s economic advancement. The Comptroller General of Customs Award further affirms Fidelity Bank’s pivotal role in modernizing trade processes and aligning with the Federal Government’s digital transformation agenda.

    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.