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| L – R: Second runner-up, Chizaram Ekueme of Awesome College; Head, Brand Management, Fidelity Bank Plc, Cynthia Ogbonna; Winner, Chizaram Unachukwu of Cedec International School; Broadcaster and Communications Expert, Wemimo Adewuni; First runner-up, Nwatu Chidera of Brookstones and Best Brains International School; and Head, Women Banking, Fidelity Bank Plc, Harriba Harry-Pepple; at the maiden edition of the Fidelity Bank She Leads debate competition held in commemoration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child in Lagos recently. |
Fidelity Bank Plc, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, reaffirmed its commitment to girl-child empowerment with a vibrant debate competition for female secondary school students in celebration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.
The event, tagged the She Leads Debate Competition, was held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Fidelity SME Hub, Gbagada, Lagos, and brought together students from six secondary schools to engage in a lively discussion on the topic: “In today’s world, is digital literacy more essential for girls than traditional life skills?”
Welcoming participants, Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank, represented by Harriba Harry-Pepple, Head of Women Banking, highlighted the importance of equipping young girls with the tools and confidence to thrive in a digital-driven world.
“Each year, this day reminds us of the limitless potential within every girl — potential that must be nurtured, celebrated, and given a platform to shine,” Ede said.
“Through HerFidelity, our Women Banking Initiative, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower girls and women to dream boldly, learn confidently, and lead fearlessly,” he added.
Ede noted that the debate served not just as a contest but as a platform for amplifying young female voices, encouraging critical thinking, and inspiring leadership.
After an engaging round of arguments and rebuttals, Chizaram Unachukwu of Cedec International School emerged overall winner, receiving a ₦500,000 cash prize. Nwatu Chidera of Brookstones/Best Brains International School came second with ₦300,000, while Chizaram Ekueme of Awesome College placed third, receiving ₦150,000.
The International Day of the Girl Child, marked globally every October 11, advocates for the rights of girls and highlights the challenges they face while promoting gender equality and empowerment.
Fidelity Bank continues to be a driving force for inclusion and empowerment through its various initiatives, particularly HerFidelity, which provides financial, career, and mentorship opportunities for women across Nigeria.
With over 9.1 million customers and 251 business offices across Nigeria and the UK, Fidelity Bank has earned multiple local and international awards, including:
- 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award (BusinessDay BAFI Awards)
- Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application 2024 (Global Business Outlook)
- Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider 2024 (Global Brands Magazine)
- Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria (Euromoney Awards for Excellence)
- Export Financing Bank of the Year 2024 (BusinessDay BAFI Awards)
Through initiatives like the She Leads Debate, Fidelity Bank continues to champion education, innovation, and gender equality as pillars for building a more inclusive future.