Fidelity Bank Plc, a tier-one lender, has commenced disbursing the Federal Government of Nigeria’s (FGN) MSME Intervention Fund, administered by the Bank of Industry (BOI). The initiative targets eligible small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with a strategic focus on women-owned businesses nationwide.
The FGN MSME Intervention Fund provides accessible financing to micro, small, and medium enterprises across all 36 states. By prioritizing women entrepreneurs, Fidelity Bank emphasizes its commitment to inclusive economic growth. This approach also highlights the essential role of women-led businesses in job creation, innovation, and sustainable development.
Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, stated:
“Partnering with the Federal Government and the Bank of Industry strengthens SME growth. In this phase, women entrepreneurs are central due to their resilience, creativity, and contribution to wealth and employment generation.”
To ensure smooth fund distribution, the bank has implemented a robust operational framework. Through its nationwide branch network, digital banking platforms, and experienced relationship managers, Fidelity Bank can reach entrepreneurs in both urban and rural communities efficiently.
This initiative complements the bank’s broader SME empowerment efforts. Recently, the Fidelity SME Empowerment Programme (FSEP) launched at the Gbagada SME Hub in Lagos, supporting 100 growth-ready SMEs with POS systems, business software, inventory tools, bookkeeping and branding training, three-day masterclasses, and six months of post-installation support—all at no cost.
Earlier in May 2025, Fidelity Bank signed an MoU with SMEDAN, Nigeria’s Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency. Through this agreement, SMEs can access low-interest financing, capacity-building support, and market opportunities, which strengthens their growth potential.
Ede further added: “Our vision goes beyond financing. We are building a comprehensive SME support ecosystem offering mentorship, market access, and capacity-building programs. Women entrepreneurs will receive a larger share of the fund, reflecting our commitment to gender inclusion.”
With the FGN MSME Intervention Fund, Fidelity Bank aims to expand affordable financing and strategic support, thus reinforcing Nigeria’s SME ecosystem while promoting sustainable growth, employment, and economic resilience nationwide.
Fidelity Bank Plc serves over 9.1 million customers through its 255 business offices in Nigeria and FidBank UK Limited subsidiary. The bank has earned numerous awards, including:
2024 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
Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria – Euromoney Awards for Excellence
Export Financing Bank of the Year – BusinessDay BAFI Awards
As a leading commercial bank, Fidelity Bank continues to drive SME growth and contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.
