...Reaffirms Support for Women Entrepreneurs

Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading Tier-One lender, has commenced the disbursement of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s (FGN) MSME Intervention Funds, administered by the Bank of Industry (BOI). The scheme targets micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide, with a strong emphasis on empowering women-owned businesses.

The intervention fund is designed to provide affordable and accessible financing to entrepreneurs across all 36 states of the federation. Fidelity Bank’s role in this phase reflects its longstanding commitment to inclusive economic growth and its recognition of women-led enterprises as key drivers of innovation, job creation, and sustainable development.

Speaking on the initiative, Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, said:

 “As a bank deeply committed to the growth of SMEs, we are proud to partner with the Federal Government and the Bank of Industry on this critical intervention. For this phase, we are placing women at the forefront because we recognize their resilience, innovation, and pivotal contributions to wealth creation and employment generation in Nigeria.”

To ensure seamless access, Fidelity Bank has deployed its extensive branch network, digital platforms, and experienced relationship managers to reach entrepreneurs across both urban and rural communities.

The bank’s participation builds on its track record as Nigeria’s leading SME-focused institution. Recently, the Fidelity SME Empowerment Programme (FSEP), launched at its Gbagada SME Hub in Lagos, supported 100 growth-ready SMEs with ERPRev-enabled POS systems, business software, inventory tools, branding support, and six months of post-installation monitoring — all at no cost.

In May 2025, Fidelity Bank also signed an MoU with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to provide low-interest financing, capacity building, and expanded market access for SMEs nationwide.

 “Our vision goes beyond financing. We are building an ecosystem of support for SMEs through capacity-building programmes, mentorship, and market linkages. Women entrepreneurs, in particular, will benefit from a larger share of the fund as part of our broader gender-inclusion strategy,” Ede added.

Through the FGN MSME Intervention Fund, Fidelity Bank aims to deepen its impact on Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem, strengthening access to affordable credit while fostering sustainable growth, employment opportunities, and economic resilience across the country.

Ranked among Nigeria’s top banks, Fidelity Bank serves over 9.1 million customers through its 255 business offices, digital platforms, and UK subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited. The bank has won multiple local and international awards, including Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by Euromoney, Export Financing Bank of the Year by BAFI Awards, and recognitions for innovation in digital and mobile banking.