... Reaffirms Support for Women Entrepreneurs
Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading Tier-One financial institution, has commenced the disbursement of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s (FGN) MSME Intervention Funds, administered by the Bank of Industry (BOI). This strategic initiative is designed to provide accessible financing to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide, with a strong focus on empowering women-owned businesses.
The intervention fund seeks to boost economic growth, drive job creation, and support entrepreneurship across Nigeria’s 36 states. In this phase, Fidelity Bank is prioritizing women entrepreneurs, reaffirming its belief in their resilience, innovation, and pivotal role in wealth creation and sustainable development.
Speaking on the development, Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, said: “As a bank deeply committed to the growth of SMEs, we are proud to partner with the Federal Government and the Bank of Industry on this critical intervention. For this phase, we are placing women at the forefront because we recognize their resilience, innovation, and vital contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth.”
Fidelity Bank has set up robust structures to ensure seamless onboarding and disbursement of the funds. Leveraging its nationwide branch network, digital banking platforms, and experienced relationship managers, the bank is well-positioned to reach entrepreneurs in both urban and rural communities.
This new role further strengthens Fidelity Bank’s position as a leading supporter of Nigeria’s SME sector. Recently, the bank launched the Fidelity SME Empowerment Programme (FSEP) at its Gbagada SME Hub in Lagos. Through the initiative, 100 growth-ready SMEs received ERPRev-enabled POS systems, business software, receipt printers, barcode scanners, inventory support, branding training, and three-day masterclasses—with six months of post-installation monitoring, all at no cost.
Earlier in May 2025, Fidelity Bank also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SMEDAN to provide SME-friendly low-interest financing, capacity-building support, and expanded market access for entrepreneurs across the country.
“Our vision goes beyond financing. We are building an ecosystem of support for SMEs through mentorship, capacity-building, and access to new markets. Women entrepreneurs, in particular, will benefit from a larger share of this fund as part of our broader gender-inclusion strategy,” Ede added.
With the commencement of the FGN MSME Intervention Fund disbursement, Fidelity Bank is reinforcing its commitment to driving financial inclusion, empowering small businesses, and fostering sustainable growth in Nigeria.
Ranked among Nigeria’s top banks, Fidelity Bank Plc currently serves over 9.1 million customers through digital platforms, 255 business offices nationwide, and its UK subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited. The bank has received multiple awards, including:
- Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award (BusinessDay BAFI Awards 2024)
- Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application (Global Business Outlook, 2024)
- Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider (Global Brands Magazine, 2024)
- Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria (Euromoney Awards for Excellence)
- Export Financing Bank of the Year (BusinessDay BAFI Awards)
Through these recognitions and its ongoing initiatives, Fidelity Bank continues to demonstrate its leadership in SME support, digital transformation, and inclusive growth.