By Ayomide Otitoju
Chairman of Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu, has been named Woman of the Year at the 5th edition of the Anambra Man of the Year Awards (AMTY) in recognition of her contributions to Nigeria’s banking industry, corporate governance, leadership and public service.
The award was presented during a ceremony held at the Stanel Dome Conference Centre in Awka, Anambra State, where business leaders, academics, captains of industry and public officials gathered to honour individuals and organisations making significant contributions to business, governance, academia and community development.
The event was chaired by Founder of Falcon Corporation, Prof. Joe Ezigbo, while the Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Prof. Bond Anyaehie, delivered the keynote address titled, “Unstoppable Anambra: Leveraging Human Capital for Global Impact.”
Mrs. Onwughalu, who assumed office as Chairman of Fidelity Bank on January 1, 2026, joined the bank’s Board in December 2020. She has over 32 years of experience in the financial services sector and previously served as Group Managing Director of legacy Mainstreet Bank Limited and Deputy Managing Director of Skye Bank Plc.
Speaking after receiving the award, she described the recognition as particularly significant because it came from her home state.
“I have been privileged to receive several honours over the course of my career. However, to be recognised by my home state makes this award especially meaningful. It reminds me of the values that have guided my journey such as integrity, resilience, service and excellence,” she said.
She dedicated the award to her mentors, colleagues, teams and institutions that supported her career, noting that leadership thrives on trust, shared responsibility and collective commitment.
Mrs. Onwughalu also expressed appreciation to the Board, Management and staff of Fidelity Bank, describing it as a privilege to lead an institution committed to strong corporate governance, customer satisfaction and sustainable growth.
She further expressed hope that the honour would inspire more young people, particularly women, to pursue their ambitions with courage, discipline and confidence.
Other recipients at the ceremony included Chairman of Mekens Integrated Nigeria Ltd, High Chief Anthony Ikenna Obele, who received the Business Icon of the Year award, and the Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Maduka Okeke, who was honoured with the Person of the Decade award.
Also recognised were the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, who received the Public Servant of the Year award; Prof. Stella Okunna, who was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award; Corporate Affairs Manager (East) at Nigerian Breweries Plc, Joy Egolum, who emerged Corporate Leader of the Year; and Chinyere Moneme (SAN), who was named Inspiring Woman of the Year.
In his remarks, Prof. Ezigbo described the AMTY Awards as a celebration of excellence, character and service, stressing that recognising outstanding individuals during their lifetime encourages them to do more while inspiring others to contribute meaningfully to society.
