Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s non-oil export sector by successfully hosting the 18th edition of its Export Management Programme (EMP 18). The initiative, held recently in Lagos, served as a platform for entrepreneurs seeking to expand their businesses beyond local markets, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in global trade.
Since its inception in 2016, the EMP has trained over 1,600 entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of international commerce. The latest edition, hosted in partnership with the Lagos Business School (LBS), recorded a 150% oversubscription, demonstrating the increasing demand for structured export training among Nigerian business owners.
Bridging Knowledge Gaps in Non-Oil Export
The five-day intensive training focused on critical aspects of export business, including Export Finance Instruments, Export Documentation, and Accessibility of Export Markets. The program was led by top industry experts who provided insights into regulatory frameworks, financing options, and trade logistics essential for breaking into international markets.
Speaking on the impact of the program, Isaiah Ndukwe, Divisional Head of Export and Agriculture at Fidelity Bank Plc, emphasized the bank’s dedication to empowering businesses through education and financial support.
“At Fidelity Bank, we recognize the vast potential of non-oil exports to drive economic growth and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs. Through our Export Management Programme, we offer not only knowledge but also financial and advisory solutions that enable businesses to scale globally,” Ndukwe stated.
A key highlight of the program was a facility tour of one of Nigeria’s busiest Export Processing Terminals (EPT) in Ikorodu, Lagos. The visit, facilitated by officials from the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), gave participants firsthand exposure to the regulatory requirements and logistics involved in exporting goods from Nigeria.
Entrepreneurs Applaud Fidelity Bank’s Initiative
Participants expressed enthusiasm about the training, describing it as an eye-opener to the opportunities in the non-oil export sector. Patrick Ulayi Awu-Patricks, CEO of Alliance & Frontier Limited, praised Fidelity Bank for its proactive role in equipping entrepreneurs with industry knowledge.
“There are enormous opportunities in Nigeria’s non-oil export sector, but without the right knowledge, many entrepreneurs struggle to tap into them. This course has not only expanded my understanding of the export business but has also highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making in international trade,” he said.
Ranked among Nigeria’s top-tier banks, Fidelity Bank Plc continues to receive local and international recognition for its contributions to export finance and SME development. With a customer base exceeding 8.5 million and a growing presence in Nigeria and the UK, the bank remains a leading force in supporting businesses to thrive in the global market.
The bank has won several awards, including the Export Finance Bank of the Year at the 2023 BusinessDay Awards, the Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023, and Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking and Finance Awards. It was also named Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023 and Best Domestic Private Bank in Nigeria at the Euromoney Global Private Banking Awards 2023.
With initiatives like the Export Management Programme, Fidelity Bank continues to solidify its position as a strategic partner for Nigerian entrepreneurs looking to expand into international markets.
