Vanessa 
Fidelity Bank Plc has won the 2025 DBN Innovation Award in the Deposit Money Bank (DMB) category, reaffirming its strong commitment to Nigeria’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The award, presented by the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) during the Service Ambassadors’ Awards in Lagos, highlights Fidelity Bank’s consistent efforts in delivering innovative financial solutions. This year’s ceremony carried the theme: “Enhancing Partnership for MSME Resilience and Growth.”
Speaking at the event, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, MD/CEO of Fidelity Bank, emphasized that the bank continues to place innovation at the center of its MSME strategy.
“At Fidelity Bank, we actively design scalable and inclusive solutions to meet the needs of Nigerian entrepreneurs. This award validates the impact of our work and the trust of our customers,” she noted.
Meanwhile, DBN Managing Director Tony Okpanachi commended financial institutions for their role in turning small ideas into thriving businesses. He explained that DBN remains focused on celebrating stories of transformation.
“Our partners are helping to bring unbankable ideas to life. We appreciate your commitment to building real value for MSMEs,” Okpanachi stated.
This recognition builds on Fidelity Bank’s recent strides in supporting small businesses. For example, earlier in May, the bank signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SMEDAN to help Nigerian MSMEs expand across African markets.
In addition, the bank launched the Fidelity SME Hub in Gbagada, Lagos. This innovative space features training halls, networking lounges, and creative studios for music, photography, and content production. Not only does the hub provide physical resources, but it also fosters collaboration and capacity-building.
A Track Record of Excellence
As one of Nigeria’s top commercial banks, Fidelity Bank serves over 9.1 million customers through its digital platforms, 255 branches, and its UK subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.
Notably, the bank has received several accolades, including:
2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking – 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
With these achievements, Fidelity Bank continues to lead by example, showing how financial institutions can power economic growth by investing in small businesses. Through ongoing partnerships and forward-thinking initiatives, the bank remains a driving force in Nigeria’s MSME sector.
