Fidelity Bank Plc has launched a new initiative, “Lighting Young Minds,” by donating 1,000 solar-powered school bags to public school pupils across Ogun State.
The launch event took place on Friday, July 4, 2025, in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. The initiative aims to solve a major learning barrier, poor access to electricity, in rural communities.
According to Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank, the project supports one of the bank’s core CSR goals: improving access to quality education.
“We believe education is a bridge to opportunity,” she said. “These bags allow children to study at night without using candles or kerosene lamps.”
The solar-powered bags are part of the bank’s SWEETA (Supporting Women, Education, Empowerment Through Access) program. Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe said the project not only helps with schoolwork but also teaches children that innovation can solve real problems.
Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe also highlighted other education-focused programs by Fidelity Bank:
SWEETA School Fees Support: Over ₦8 billion disbursed to families for tuition.
Read2Lead Competition: Impacted over 3,000 students through writing contests and grants.
Back-to-School Loans: Helps parents fund school expenses.
Fidelity EduLoan: Supports schools with infrastructure and equipment.
Green Energy Financing Program: Promotes solar energy in schools and complements the solar bag initiative.The solar-powered bags will be distributed to schools in all 20 local government areas of Ogun State.
Support from Ogun State Government
Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, First Lady of Ogun State, praised the initiative as timely and impactful.
“This project meets a real need, light for learning,” she said. “It shows how simple solutions can create big changes for children.”
She also noted that the program supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4, which calls for inclusive and quality education for all.
Mrs. Abiodun urged other private sector players to follow Fidelity Bank’s lead in driving social change.
Empowering the Next Generation
The Lighting Young Minds program reflects Fidelity Bank’s mission to close opportunity gaps. The bank continues to deliver sustainable, tech-driven solutions to support Nigerian children and schools.
