By Ayomide Otitoju
Fidelity Bank Plc has reinforced its commitment to social impact by donating relief items to inmates at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre in Lagos under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP).
The donation, facilitated by the bank’s Human Resources department, included household tools and gift items handed over to the facility’s leadership to support the rehabilitation and development of indigent persons. Through the FHHP, Fidelity Bank staff nationwide identify pressing community needs, raise funds, and receive matching contributions from the bank’s management to implement targeted interventions.
At the presentation ceremony, Chief Human Resources Officer, Mr. Charles Nwachukwu, emphasized that the bank’s CSR efforts extend beyond financial growth to restoring hope and providing opportunities for marginalized individuals. “At Fidelity Bank, we believe that every individual deserves a second chance,” Nwachukwu said. “By supporting inmates today, we are empowering them to return as productive and confident members of society.”
Deputy Controller of Corrections at Ikoyi Custodial Centre, Dr. Julius Ogueri, welcomed the initiative and called on Nigerians to avoid cybercrimes and stigmatization of former inmates. Highlighting the challenges faced by the facility, Ogueri noted that the centre, originally designed for 800 inmates, now houses over 3,000, including 396 convicted persons and 3,604 awaiting trial.
Ogueri also commended the bank’s support for rehabilitation, citing that 72 inmates are currently studying with the National Open University of Nigeria and 120 have benefited from WAEC and GCE programs.
Fidelity Bank’s intervention underscores its dedication to meaningful community engagement and social responsibility, particularly in supporting rehabilitation initiatives.
Ranked among Nigeria’s leading banks, Fidelity Bank serves over 9.1 million customers through 255 branches nationwide and its UK subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited. The bank has received numerous local and international awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and recognition as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence.
