Fidelity Bank Plc, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, has taken its fight against hunger to Anambra State. Through its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility program, the Fidelity Food Bank Initiative, the bank provided essential food items to over 2,000 vulnerable residents in Awka, the state capital.
Supporting Families in Need
The outreach lasted two days and took place at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Catholic Diocese of Awka, and Emmaus House, Anglican Diocese of Awka. Elderly citizens, widows, and other vulnerable groups received relief packs designed to ease their daily struggles.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Nosa Orumwense, Regional Bank Head for Awka, reaffirmed the bank’s mission.
“The Fidelity Food Bank was launched as part of our commitment to the well-being of our host communities. We are delighted to bring this initiative to Anambra State in collaboration with our partners. Together, we can ensure the most vulnerable among us receive support during these difficult times,” he said.
Collaboration for Greater Impact
The program drew commendation from both faith and community leaders. Rev. Father Levi Ukor, Director of the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) of the Catholic Diocese of Awka, stressed the importance of collective effort.
“We are truly excited to partner with Fidelity Bank on this noble cause. Hunger remains a pressing issue for many households. The bank’s decision to provide food support to this large number of people shows genuine compassion and social responsibility,” he said.
Similarly, the Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, described food as a basic human necessity. He urged other corporate organizations to emulate Fidelity Bank’s example in reaching those most affected by economic hardship.
Relief for the Community
Local leaders also expressed their gratitude. Chinedu Okafor, Chairman of Awka South Local Government Area, described the intervention as timely.
“Many residents are facing difficult economic realities. Fidelity Bank’s gesture brings real relief to families in need. We appreciate the bank’s commitment and pledge our administration’s support for initiatives that improve community welfare,” he said.
For many beneficiaries, the food packs came at the perfect time. Mrs. Adanma Mbah, one of the recipients, expressed heartfelt gratitude. “The foodstuff will go a long way in supporting my family. Thank you, Fidelity Bank,” she said. Another resident, Mrs. Nnenna Okeke, encouraged more organizations to follow the bank’s lead, noting that food interventions are essential for restoring hope.
A Nationwide Commitment
Since its launch in April 2023, the Fidelity Food Bank Initiative has distributed over 250,000 food packs across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. More than 300 communities have benefitted, making it one of the most impactful CSR programs in the country.
This expansion into Anambra reflects Fidelity Bank’s strategy of extending its reach while building trust and goodwill. By tackling food insecurity, the bank is reinforcing its role as more than just a financial institution, but as a partner in national development.
Beyond Banking: Awards and Recognition
Fidelity Bank is ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, serving over 9.1 million customers across digital channels, 255 business offices, and its UK subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.
The bank has earned multiple awards for excellence, including:
- 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.
- 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application Award for the Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook.
- 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider Award by Global Brands Magazine.
- Recognition as Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence.
- Export Financing Bank of the Year at the BusinessDay BAFI Awards.
These achievements highlight Fidelity Bank’s dual commitment to innovation in financial services and impactful community development.
