Category: Business

  • Dino Melaye; A Clown Who Missed His Calling.

    Dino Melaye; A Clown Who Missed His Calling.

    Mogaji (Hon) Seye Oladejo.

    The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has noted, with a mixture of amusement and pity, the recent rantings of Senator Dino Melaye, where he took aim at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government over borrowing.

    As usual, the PDP’s self-appointed court jester has once again mistaken noise-making for serious political engagement.

    For the avoidance of doubt, let us state clearly: Nigeria’s current borrowing is strategic, targeted at productive infrastructure, power, transport, and critical sectors that will unlock economic growth.

    This is far removed from the reckless borrowing and squandermania that defined Dino’s PDP era, when loans were blown on frivolities, white elephant projects, and the obscene lifestyles of politicians.

    It is therefore the height of irony for Dino Melaye – a man whose Senate career is remembered more for his wardrobe parades, comic theatrics, and luxury car convoys than for any tangible legislative contribution- to lecture anyone on fiscal discipline.

    Nigerians remember too well that Dino had more exotic cars, each flaunting his vanity registration plates boldly inscribed “DINO”, than he ever had meaningful motions or bills on the floor of the Senate.

    His political career is a catalogue of excess, self-indulgence, and drama, not service.

    What moral authority does a man who turned the Red Chamber into a fashion runway and karaoke lounge have to discuss economic management?

    The same Dino who was more famous for flaunting his mansions, singing his infamous “Ajekun Iya” chorus, and staging fainting spells than for sponsoring people-oriented legislation now wishes to pose as an economic messiah. Nigerians are not deceived.

    Unlike the PDP governments Dino defended with his theatrics, President Tinubu is borrowing not to fund champagne lifestyles but to build lasting foundations for growth.

    There is a world of difference between a drunkard borrowing to sustain his reckless habits and a businessman borrowing to expand his enterprise. Dino belongs firmly in the first category.

    We must remind Dino that governance is not a Nollywood audition. Nigeria’s destiny cannot be tied to comedy skits, musical interludes, or staged fainting performances.

    If he is desperate for attention, he should confine himself to the entertainment industry, where his talents for clowning, singing, and costume display will find ready appreciation.

    But as far as serious governance is concerned, Nigerians deserve sober, intelligent contributions- not the rantings of a clown who long missed his calling.

    The Lagos APC reaffirms its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold economic reforms and assures Nigerians that no amount of theatrical noise from failed politicians will distract from the work of rebuilding our nation.

     

    Mogaji (Hon) Seye Oladejo.
    Lagos APC Spokesman

  • FNITCC Atlanta: Fidelity Bank To Spotlight Fintech’s Role In U.S. – Africa Trade

    FNITCC Atlanta: Fidelity Bank To Spotlight Fintech’s Role In U.S. – Africa Trade

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Tier-one lender Fidelity Bank Plc will host a high-profile panel session titled “Digital Railroads: Powering U.S.–Africa Commerce Through Fintech” at the upcoming Fidelity Nigeria International Trade and Creative Connect (FNITCC) in Atlanta, USA.

    The session, scheduled for Friday, 19 September 2025, will explore how fintech is reshaping cross-border trade by enabling seamless payments, improving access to finance, and driving financial inclusion across Africa and the diaspora.

    Investigator news reports that the panel will bring together some of the brightest minds in digital finance including: Aisha N. Ahmad, CFA, Former Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria; Seyi Ebenezer, Founder of Payaza Africa, and a seasoned fintech entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience scaling payment gateways across 20 African countries, Canada, the USA, and UAE; and  Charles Oligbo, Founder & CEO of Sawport, an AI-powered platform designed for real-time customer engagement in the diaspora and on the continent.

    Speaking ahead of the session, Isaiah Ndukwe, Divisional Head, Agric. and Exports, Fidelity Bank Plc, highlighted fintech’s unique role in unlocking Africa’s trade potential:

    “The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is projected to boost intra-African trade by more than 50% by 2030. But challenges like fragmented payment systems, currency conversion, and limited trade finance continue to hold businesses back.

    “Fintechs are uniquely positioned to address these gaps—enabling real-time, low-cost cross-border payments, offering alternative financing for SMEs, creating digital identities for exporters, and facilitating diaspora remittances and investments. This is why we’re putting fintech at the heart of discussions at FNITCC Atlanta.”

    Hosted in partnership with AFRICON—the premier global gathering of African innovators and changemakers—FNITCC Atlanta will run from 18 to 20 September 2025 at the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park, Georgia, USA.

    The event is expected to attract over 3,000 participants, including investors, trade agencies, exporters, and diaspora professionals, with projected trade and investment deals of more than US$400 million.

    Building on the success of previous editions in London (2022) and Houston (2023), this year’s conference underscores Fidelity Bank’s commitment to leveraging fintech as a catalyst for U.S.–Africa commerce, while creating new opportunities across commodities, technology, and the creative industries.

    According to the African Development Bank, Africa’s fintech revenues are projected to hit US$30 billion by 2025—a clear sign that digital finance is not just powering transactions but also rewriting the future of trade.

    Interested businesses and participants are encouraged to register for the conference at www.fidelitybank.ng/fnitcc

    Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

    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.

  • Sterling HoldCo Sustains Growth Momentum with Strong Q4 Projection

    Sterling HoldCo Sustains Growth Momentum with Strong Q4 Projection

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Lagos, Nigeria: Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc (“Sterling HoldCo” or “the Group”) has sustained its growth momentum, projecting gross earnings of N149.27 billion for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2025.

    This projection builds on the Group’s performance in the first half of the year, when profit after tax rose by 157 percent, gross earnings climbed 39.7 percent to N212.61 billion, and earning per share rose to 89 kobo from 56 kobo.

    Together, these results highlight a strong year-to-date trajectory, reinforcing profitability and boosting investor confidence in the Group’s long-term outlook.

    According to the filing on the Nigerian Exchange, Sterling HoldCo expects interest income of N116.73 billion and interest expenses of N42.88 billion, resulting in net revenue from funds of N73.85 billion. The Group also anticipates credit impairment charges of N16.84 billion, with other income projected at N28.37 billion, bringing net operating income to N85.37 billion.

    Operating expenses are forecast at N67.24 billion, leaving a profit before tax of N18.13 billion. After accounting for a projected tax of N1.88 billion, profit after tax is estimated at N16.25 billion for the quarter.

    Sterling’s cash flow outlook underscores the strength of its balance sheet.

    The Group projects N13.56 billion in net cash generated from operating activities,alongside N266.16 billion in financing inflows and N187.93 billion in investing activities.

    This is expected to deliver a net increase of N91.79 billion in cash and cash equivalents, with the cash and bank balance closing at N549.90 billion by year-end, compared to N458.11 billion at the start of the quarter.

    These forecasts build on the Group’s performance earlier in the year, reflecting the continuation of this momentum, supported by a disciplined focus on cost management, diversified income streams, and prudent balance sheet growth.

    Beyond financial performance, the outlook highlights the Group’s capacity to channel its financial strength into broader impact.

    Sterling HoldCo is positioned to support key growth sectors of the Nigerian economy, invest in innovation, and continue creating value for shareholders, customers, and communities.

    The Group noted that its ability to generate strong operating cashflows while maintaining significant liquidity positions provides a foundation for resilience. This strength ensures that Sterling HoldCo is not only positioned to deliver value to its shareholders but also equipped to deepen its participation in Nigeria’s growth sectors, drive innovation, and support broader economic progress.

    These projections are forward-looking and based on current assumptions about market conditions and regulatory developments. Actual results may differ materially.

    It will be recalled that Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC is a leading Nigerian financial services group committed to enriching lives through innovation and impact with a diversified portfolio that includes Sterling Bank Limited, The Alternative Bank Limited, SterlingFI Wealth Management among others.

    As a HoldCo, Sterling provides strategic direction, governance, and resources across its subsidiaries, enabling each to focus on its core mandate while benefiting from groupwide expertise, technology, and oversight.

    With a heritage of trust built over six decades, Sterling HoldCo is committed to financial innovation, advancing inclusion, and shaping sustainable growth in Nigeria’s economy.

    The Group champions customer-focused solutions and socially responsible initiatives while creating value for shareholders, employees, and the communities it serves. The Group continues to pioneer offerings across its core businesses in banking, payments, and technology-driven financial services.

  • Trust, not money, is the strongest currency in business — Komaiya

    Trust, not money, is the strongest currency in business — Komaiya

    The Chief Responsibility Officer and Chief Executive Officer of the CEO’s Class, Pst. Korede Komaiya, has said trust is a necessary catalyst in the marketplace.

    Komaiya made this known in a statement, saying: “In the marketplace, trust is the most powerful currency. It outweighs money, resources, and even strategy. Without trust, visibility is lost, opportunities are closed, and voices go unheard. But with trust, influence becomes unstoppable, doors of favor swing open, and your brand becomes unforgettable.”
    Komaiya, who announced he would be addressing the subject in his upcoming CEO’s Class on Monday, September 8, at 4:00 p.m., noted that the session would focus on “social currency” and how leaders across different fields can leverage trust as their greatest asset.
    He added: “In this transformative session, I will uncover how to make your brand believable, become the most trusted, and move clients from customers to fanatics.”

    “This is not a theory but tested truth. When you master the currency of trust, you will never struggle for relevance, influence, or recognition again. Your next level in business, leadership, and destiny is locked in your ability to command trust. Don’t miss it for anything,” Komaiya emphasized.

  • Sterling Bank Marks One Year Of Africa’s Groundbreaking Core Banking System

    Sterling Bank Marks One Year Of Africa’s Groundbreaking Core Banking System

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Number one Best Workplace in Banking in Nigeria and recognised as Africa’s most agile company, Sterling Bank Limited celebrated the first anniversary of SeaBaas, the revolutionary core banking system designed and built in Africa.

    In just twelve months since its go-live, SeaBaas has processed over 2 billion transactions, reduced processing times by about 60%, and driven a 66% surge in customer adoption, setting new benchmarks for scale, efficiency, and reliability in financial technology.

    Since launch, the platform has powered Sterling’s digital ecosystem, OneBank,
    SterlingPro, Switch, Specta, and more, while enabling fintech integrations, agent banking networks, and third-party solutions. With zero downtime across 365 days of service, SeaBaas has proven its resilience as one of the most dependable financial platforms on the continent.

    “SeaBaas, to us, represents a proof of possibility” said Abubakar Suleiman, Chief Executive, Sterling Bank. “It shows that Africa can build world-class technology,solve complex problems locally, and scale globally. This milestone is a collective victory for every Sterling colleague, our partners, and our customers who believed in the vision.”

    Designed by Sterling Bank and developed in collaboration with Peerless Software, KPMG, Bazara Technologies, Revent Technologies, and AppQuest Solutions, alongside Sterling’s in-house engineering talent, SeaBaas has become a model of courage, ingenuity, and execution excellence in Nigeria.

    Beyond technology, it has unlocked significant cost savings, freed resources for reinvestment, and accelerated financial inclusion across Nigeria’s economy.

    Looking forward, Sterling intends to build on this momentum by expanding SeaBaas capabilities to tackle bold challenges, reimagine financial systems, and showcase the potential of African innovation on a global stage.

    “SeaBaas reminds us that when we dare to dream boldly and build courageously, there is no limit to what we can achieve in Africa,” added Suleiman. “This is only the beginning.”

    It will be recalled that Sterling Bank Limited is a full-service national commercial bank in Nigeria and a member of Sterling Financial Holdings Company.

    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 To Host Eduthrive Conference To Empower School Owners Ahead Of New Academic Session

    Fidelity Bank To Host Eduthrive Conference To Empower School Owners Ahead Of New Academic Session

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, is set to convene key stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector for Eduthrive, an inspiring two-day conference designed to equip school owners with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in the upcoming academic session.

    Themed “Positioning Your School for Growth,” the event will take place from August 28 to 29, 2025, at the Fidelity SME Hub, 22 Lanre Awolokun Street, Gbagada Phase 2, Lagos.

    It will feature panel discussions, stakeholder engagement sessions, and networking opportunities, including participation from the Lagos Office of Education Quality Assurance.

    The program is tailored to support sustainable growth and operational excellence in the education sector.

    According to Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, “Running a profitable educational institution today requires a blend of academic expertise and smart entrepreneurial skills.

    From keeping pace with evolving standards to upgrading facilities and paying competitive salaries, the financial demands on school administrators are significant.

    “For many, the difference between surviving and thriving lies in having the right support.

    That’s what makes Fidelity Bank’s offerings for the education sector unique—we continuously curate products and services that empower school administrators and stakeholders across the education value chain.”

    The Eduthrive Conference is the latest in Fidelity Bank’s series of impactful initiatives aimed at improving access to quality education in Nigeria.

    Earlier this year, the bank launched the Lighting Young Minds initiative, donating solar-powered school bags to pupils in public primary schools.

    This intervention, hailed as a game changer, enables children to study safely at night without relying on candles or kerosene lamps.

    In addition, Fidelity Bank has hosted education-focused webinars with themes such as, “Strengthening Child Education through Parent-Teacher Partnerships” in 2024 and “Maintaining Education Standards Amidst Current Economic Realities” in September 2024.

    These initiatives reflect the bank’s unwavering commitment to supporting educational institutions through financing, capacity development, branding, and digital platforms.

    “The Eduthrive event presents an opportunity to unpack Fidelity Bank’s tailored solutions for the education sector—solutions that address real challenges and unlock growth potential,” added Ede.

    For more information and registration, visit https://bit.ly/Back-to-SchoolReadiness2025

    Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

    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.

  • LASAA Pledges Fairness,Safety In Outdoor Advertising Regulations.

    LASAA Pledges Fairness,Safety In Outdoor Advertising Regulations.

    Emmanuel Clement

    Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) has responded to recent apprehensions suggesting a resurgence of heavy-handed regulation and arbitrary enforcement in the State’s outdoor advertising sector.

    While acknowledging the concerns, LASAA sought to reaffirm its commitment to regulatory fairness, industry professionalism and the sustainable growth of outdoor advertising in Lagos.

    Refuting claims that LASAA intends to “wield the big stick,” the Agency drew attention to its longstanding practice of fostering dialogue and partnership with industry stakeholders.

    Prince Fatiu Akiolu, Managing Director of the Agency stated, “The era of mutual suspicion is firmly behind us,” adding that the Agency “regularly convenes stakeholder fora, maintains cordial relationships with industry players, offers concessions such as discounts on vacant billboard charges and seeks stakeholders input before making major policy decisions.”

    Prince Akiolu clarified that LASAA does not compete with private operators commercially. Instead, it manages a limited number of state-approved advertising structures primarily reserved to amplify government programmes, public awareness initiatives and regulatory oversight.

    These, with the Agency’s core mandate focusing on orderliness, public safety, and environmental aesthetics.

    He said these efforts aim to serve the broader interests of Lagos residents and reiterated that the Agency’s core mandate remains the enforcement of orderliness, public safety and environmental aesthetics within the state.

    On licensing, the Managing Director explained that stringent criteria ensure only qualified practitioners operate in the market.

    Addressing concerns about billboard oversupply, particularly around military and police formations where illegal structures are common, he noted that LASAA has imposed a moratorium on new registrations and permits since early 2025.

    “This moratorium intends to uphold industry integrity and elevate professional standards.”

    Prince Fatiu explained that, “the Agency’s Health and Safety team actively verifies that outdoor installations meet engineering and safety benchmarks to mitigate risks to life and property.”

    He noted that LASAA’s regulatory approach is primarily preventive rather than punitive and relies on monitoring, early warnings and corrective interventions, with enforcement used only when absolutely necessary.

    Acknowledging ongoing challenges such as violations of spacing, setback and structural regulations, the MD attributed these mainly to lapses in operator compliance rather than regulatory overreach.

    He urged stakeholders, including the Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN) and licensed professionals, to strengthen self-regulation and collaborate in reporting infractions to enhance Lagos’s safety, visual appeal and economic vibrancy.

    To prevent a relapse into disorder, LASAA has launched a comprehensive enforcement and cleanup operation targeting unlawful advertising installations to restore urban order and protect public interests.

    Prince Fatiu stressed the essential role outdoor advertising plays in defining Lagos’s visual identity and called for responsible industry stewardship.

    He reiterated LASAA’s commitment to maintaining a balanced regulatory framework that ensures oversight while supporting industry sustainability.

    This approach aims to create a transparent environment that safeguards investments and enhances the city’s aesthetics.

    The Managing Director reassured the public and outdoor advertising professionals that LASAA’s mandate is not to stifle growth or punish legitimate operators but to ensure a fair, regulated and sustainable outdoor advertising sector in Lagos.

    He reaffirmed his dedication to nurturing an environment that protects investments, safeguards the public and enhances the beauty of Lagos.

  • Fidelity Bank Resumes International Transactions On Naira Debit Cards.

    Fidelity Bank Resumes International Transactions On Naira Debit Cards.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Tier-one Lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced the resumption of international transactions on its Naira Debit Cards.

    This recommencement gives customers the freedom to make seamless payments abroad, online, and at ATMs outside the country.

    Shedding light on the development, Ifeoma Onibuje, Divisional Head, eBanking, Fidelity Bank Plc said, “We are delighted to inform the public that Fidelity Naira Cards are now enabled for global use.

    This means that our travelling customers can now utilize their Naira Debit cards outside the country to shop, spend and withdraw internationally without hassles.”

    “Consequently, our customers can now spend up to $1,000 quarterly for international POS and online transactions; and withdraw up to $500 quarterly on international ATMs.”

    The announcement offers Fidelity Bank customers another way to complete international transactions, in addition to the Bank’s existing foreign currency debit and credit cards.

    This further reinforces Fidelity Bank’s commitment to delivering solutions that fit seamlessly into customers’ lifestyles.

    With Fidelity Bank’s VISA and Mastercard Naira Debit Cards, Nigerians can now enjoy effortless global access.

    Beyond payments, Fidelity VISA cardholders, one of the variants of the bank’s card offerings, also enjoy premium travel and lifestyle benefits ranging from airport lounge and spa access via the Visa Airport Companion App, to fast-track immigration lanes and 20% discounts on SIXT car rentals worldwide.

    This move reflects the bank’s commitment to provide secure, convenient, and reliable banking services that empower customers in Nigeria and beyond.

    The bank has deliberately made the process of getting a Fideity Naira card seamless. Customers can easily apply for their Fidelity VISA or Mastercard Naira Debit card via the Fidelity Mobile App or simply visit the nearest Fidelity bank branch to request for one and they can start transacting globally with ease.

    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.

  • Sterling Bank’s ₦2B ‘Beyond Education’ Fund,Names First Beneficiaries.

    Sterling Bank’s ₦2B ‘Beyond Education’ Fund,Names First Beneficiaries.

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

     Sterling Bank, Nigeria’s leading financial institution, has announced the first recipients of its ₦2 billion Beyond Education Scholarship, a groundbreaking nationwide initiative designed to fund university education for 600 exceptional young Nigerians and connect them to future careers in high-impact sectors.

    The announcement reflects a major step in the Bank’s commitment to long-term, inclusive national development through strategic investment in human capital.

    At its core, the Beyond Education program is built not just to provide scholarships, but to create real-world pathways to employment and socio-economic mobility.

    Launched in June 2025, Beyond Education is Sterling Bank’s most ambitious education-focused intervention to date.

    The scholarship fully covers undergraduate tuition at two forward-looking, accredited institutions, Miva Open University, Nigeria’s first licensed online private university, and Hillside University of Science & Technology (HUST), a STEM-centered campus in Ekiti State.

    Unlike conventional scholarship programs, Beyond Education is intentionally designed to support Nigeria’s critical development agenda.

    It aligns with Sterling’s HEART strategy, an investment framework focused on Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation.

    The goal is to build a talent pipeline for sectors that are vital to the country’s future.

    “This is more than a scholarship. It’s a national development strategy,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive for Consumer and Business Banking at Sterling Bank.

    “We’re closing the gap between education and employability. Our mission is to prepare young people for the future of work in sectors that matter most to Nigeria’s progress.”

    The first 30 scholars were selected through a transparent, community-driven voting process open to Sterling Bank account holders. All nominees were thoroughly vetted to ensure they met admission requirements at the partner universities.

    The inaugural winners are:
    Abdulahi Afolabi, Damilare Tijani, Abdulwahab Eniafe, Abubakar Isah, Tahir Enesi Ibrahim, Julius Agbene Agbo, Chinedu Kelechi Patrick, Ayomide Ojo, Fyneseed Nwogu, Miracle Woyinmomoemi Daniel, Serene Clinton, Temiloluwa Orekunrin, Udeme Umoh, Victor Esogwa, Rosemary Kosipre, Ali Mohammed, Usman Isiaka Ololade.

    Others are Kayode Aikulola, Saviour Philip, Ademola Afolabi, Emmanuel Enekwa, Bashir Sani Ibrahim, Ezekiel Adeseye, Deborah Umeaku, Abba Kaka Lawan, Haisam Sunusi Mahmuda, John Gumuan, Afan Ajiji, Bajepade Kehinde, and Chioma Igwe.

    While the scholarship covers full tuition, recipients are responsible for associated costs such as internet access, learning materials, and living expenses, a structure designed for sustainability and scale.

    To ensure effective rollout, nominations for the next round of candidates will pause until September 2025.

    However, voting remains open, and verified nominees are encouraged to continue engaging their communities as the next cohort will be selected in the coming weeks.

    With 570 scholarships still to be awarded, Sterling Bank remains committed to expanding access to quality education and helping shape a future-ready workforce for Nigeria.

    Investigator news reports that Sterling Bank is a leading Nigerian financial institution recognized for its innovative HEART strategy, which channels investment into Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation.

    The Bank is widely known for its inclusive banking models and purpose-led initiatives that deliver measurable impact. Learn more at www.sterling.ng.

  • Ekiti State Residents Benefit From Fidelity Food Bank Programme.

    Ekiti State Residents Benefit From Fidelity Food Bank Programme.

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    As part of its ongoing commitment to community development and the fight against hunger, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc has donated hundreds of food packs to residents of Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State through its flagship Fidelity Food Bank program.

    The initiative is the bank’s nationwide food intervention aimed at alleviating hunger and cushioning the impact of economic hardship on underserved people across Nigeria. Since its launch in April 2023, the Food Bank has distributed over 250,000 food packs to beneficiaries across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.

    Speaking about the distribution event held in Ado-Ekiti, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, explained that “The Fidelity Food Bank is our way of responding to the rising levels of hunger in Nigeria. It is a proactive and compassionate CSR effort that has so far reached over 300 communities nationwide. We are proud to extend our coverage to Ado-Ekiti to continue that mission,”

    “We have sustained this initiative for more than two years and it reflects our enduring commitment to addressing poverty and hunger across Nigeria. At Fidelity Bank we will continue to play our part in promoting food security for the unprivileged.

    The event received commendations from stakeholders and beneficiaries alike. The Cathedral Administrator, Saint Patrick Catholic Cathedral, Reverend Father Benedict Bimbola Joseph praised Fidelity Bank for its generosity and partnership:

    “Fidelity Bank has brought much-needed relief to our people in Ado-Ekiti. This is a welcome development and a first of its kind in our community. We hope other corporate organizations will emulate this gesture, as no contribution is too small if it brings relief to people during these trying times.”

    Similarly, Reverend Father Michael Domingo, one of the Bank’s Food Bank programme partners, applauded the vision of Fidelity Bank’s leadership: “The Bank and its leadership have demonstrated wisdom and compassion by recognizing the urgent need to support government efforts in alleviating poverty, especially now when hunger is a pressing issue. We are truly grateful for this gesture,” he stated.

    The Fidelity Food Bank remains one of the most impactful CSR initiatives Nationwide. Recently, the bank provided essential food items to over 1,500 flood victims in Mokwa, Niger State, and supported more than 2,000 displaced persons affected by the Yelwata attacks, currently sheltering at the Ultra-Modern International Market IDP Camp in Makurdi, Benue State.

    These efforts reflect the bank’s unending commitment to community development, health, and social welfare.

     

    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.