More than 4,500 residents of Abere and Modakeke communities in Ile-Ife, Osun State, have received food support. The outreach was held under the Fidelity Food Bank Initiative. It was organized by Fidelity Bank Plc in partnership with the Ministry of Cooperatives and Empowerment and the Esther Adeleke Foundation.
Speaking during the event, the Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, emphasized the bank’s commitment to social responsibility. She was represented by the Regional Bank Head, Southwest II, Mrs. Morenike Olabisi.
According to Olabisi, “This marks our third food distribution in Osun this year.” She added that the initiative aligns with the bank’s goal of reducing hunger nationwide. Since launching in April 2023, the program has reached communities across all six geopolitical zones.
In addition to the food items, the bank will donate 500 Point-of-Sale (POS) machines. These will be distributed through the Ministry of Cooperatives and Empowerment. Furthermore, the machines aim to empower families and small businesses across the state.
“These POS devices are income-generating tools,” Olabisi explained. “They will help many residents earn and grow their businesses.”
Government and Foundation Applaud the Initiative
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, praised the program. He was represented by the Commissioner for Cooperatives and Empowerment, Hon. Bayo Ogungbangbe.
“This is not the first time Fidelity Bank is supporting our people,” the commissioner noted. “Their consistency proves they care about the welfare of Osun residents.” He also encouraged other corporate bodies to follow this example.
The founder of Esther Adeleke Foundation and wife of the Governor, Erelu Ngozi Adeleke, also spoke at the event. She noted that this is the second joint outreach with Fidelity Bank.
“The first edition was held at Asubiaro Hospital in Osogbo,” she said. “That experience inspired us to expand this effort.”
She added, “I partnered with Fidelity Bank to help the needy and reduce poverty. I am committed to supporting the people alongside the Governor.” She also expressed her gratitude to Fidelity Bank for its dedication.
Fidelity Bank: Leading with Impact
Fidelity Bank Plc is one of Nigeria’s top commercial banks. It serves over 9.1 million customers through its 255 branches and digital channels. It also operates a UK-based subsidiary, FidBank UK.
In recent years, the bank has won several awards. These include:
2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking – BusinessDay BAFI Awards
Most Innovative Mobile Banking App – Global Business Outlook
Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider – Global Brands Magazine
Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria – Euromoney Awards
Export Financing Bank of the Year – BAFI Awards
Clearly, the Fidelity Food Bank initiative further reinforces the bank’s reputation. It shows the bank’s drive to empower lives and uplift communities across Nigeria.
