The outreach formed part of a “Back to School” campaign championed by the bank’s Risk Management Directorate, aimed at improving learning conditions while encouraging healthy hygiene practices among children in one of Nigeria’s most underserved waterfront settlements. Through the FHHP, Fidelity Bank employees identify community needs and receive matching financial support from the bank’s management to implement sustainable, grassroots projects.
In total, 124 pupils benefited from the initiative. The items distributed included school bags, exercise books and writing materials to support academic activities, as well as towels, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes to promote personal hygiene and wellbeing. The dual focus reflects the bank’s recognition that education and health are closely linked foundations for long-term development.
Representing the Executive Director and Chief Risk Officer, Mr. Kevin Ugwuoke, the Divisional Head, Remedial Assets, Dr. Damian Orizu, noted that the outreach aligns with Fidelity Bank’s broader philosophy of shared prosperity. He explained that the institution views community wellbeing as integral to its long-term success, particularly in vulnerable areas such as Makoko.
According to Dr. Orizu, the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme also highlights the passion of the bank’s workforce to contribute meaningfully beyond their professional roles. He commended the Risk Management Directorate for leading the intervention and demonstrating how corporate responsibility can be driven from within the organisation.
Community leaders welcomed the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful. The Baale of Adogbo (1) Community, Makoko, Chief Victor Panke, expressed appreciation to Fidelity Bank, while drawing attention to the daily challenges faced by pupils who commute across the lagoon to attend school. He noted that the support would help ease financial pressure on families and appealed for further assistance, particularly in the provision of boats to improve safe access to education.
The latest donation marks Fidelity Bank’s third intervention in Makoko within a two-month period, underscoring a sustained commitment to education, hygiene and inclusive development. Through the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme, the bank continues to focus on empowering vulnerable communities and investing in the next generation.
Fidelity Bank Plc is ranked among Nigeria’s leading commercial banks, serving over 9.1 million customers through its digital platforms, 255 business offices nationwide and its UK subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited. The bank has received several local and international recognitions, including awards for digital transformation, mobile banking innovation, SME banking excellence and export financing, reflecting its growing influence within Nigeria’s financial services sector.