Author: Dodo Elias Denen

The Nteje Development Union Lagos Branch has fixed August 2, 2026, for its general election to usher in a new executive committee that will pilot the affairs of the association for the next tenure.

The election will coincide with the official unveiling and opening of an ultra modern toilet facility donated by the Anataogu Age Grade, a project aimed at improving the welfare of members and enhancing facilities at the union’s secretariat.

Speaking on behalf of the age grade, Chief Arinze Nwoye said the project reflects the group’s commitment to giving back to the association. He added that the initiative was conceived to ensure members enjoy better amenities while encouraging others to embark on projects that would advance the union’s growth.

Chairman of the union, Chief Engr. Chinedu Orakwue, popularly known as Oputa Obie Na Aborgu, reaffirmed his readiness to hand over leadership following the expiration of his tenure. He prayed for the incoming executives to lead with wisdom, unity and selfless service.

Orakwue described the transition as a demonstration of the union’s commitment to democratic values, urging members to participate actively in the electoral process to strengthen the association.

He also renewed the union’s appeal to renowned philanthropist and medical expert, High Chief Dr. Philip Oranyelu Ozuah, to support the construction of a befitting Nteje Town Hall in Lagos. According to him, the proposed project is a legacy initiative that will serve present and future generations of Nteje indigenes.

He explained that the planned town hall would provide a permanent venue for cultural events, meetings, empowerment programmes, educational activities and welfare interventions, while preserving the rich heritage of the Nteje community in Lagos.

The chairmanship contest has attracted two candidates, Prophet Odumegwu Michael Ofokansi and Chief Chinedu Odiaka, who have both pledged to reposition the union through transparent and inclusive leadership.

Presenting his manifesto, Odiaka, also known as Igbonefego I, said he was seeking office with a deep sense of responsibility and a commitment to unity, accountability and community development. He promised to make the union more responsive to members’ welfare, economic empowerment and cultural advancement.

He further appealed for support towards the proposed Nteje Town Hall project, saying it aligns with the vision of building lasting institutions that will strengthen the community and benefit generations to come.

For the office of General Secretary, Mr. Emeka Victor Ekwealo, Mr. Hyacinth Beluchukwu Nwafor and the incumbent, Mr. Ekene Nwakaeze, are seeking the mandate of members. The Vice Chairman position is being contested by Tochukwu Udefi.

Addressing members, Hyacinth Beluchukwu Nwafor said his ambition is driven by a desire to strengthen the union through transparency, proper documentation, prompt communication and efficient record keeping. He assured members that every decision would reflect openness, accountability and inclusiveness.

He said his vision extends beyond holding office, stressing that the collective goal is to build a stronger, better organised and more impactful Nteje Development Union in Lagos. He therefore appealed for the confidence and support of members at the polls.

The offices of Treasurer and Financial Secretary are unopposed. Mr. Celestine Chidiebere Nwankwo is expected to retain his position as Treasurer, while Chief Chinedu Charles Ebede will also continue as Financial Secretary. The union further disclosed that the candidate who finishes second in the General Secretary election will serve as Assistant Secretary.

The electoral committee, comprising Samuel Uyaemezina, Chigbo Igbokwe and Chukwuma Anyakuba, urged qualified members to contest the remaining vacant offices of Welfare Officer, Public Relations Officer and Provost. The committee also called on members to turn out in large numbers for the election, stressing that credible leadership, financial responsibility and active participation are essential to the continued growth and unity of the Nteje Development Union Lagos Branch.

The Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mukhtar Shehu Shagari, has intensified efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s inland waterways sector through international collaboration following a strategic meeting with the President of the World Maritime University, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., during the ongoing IMO Council Meeting.

The meeting, held in London yesterday, focused on leveraging global expertise to support inland waterways development, maritime education, capacity building and sustainable transportation systems in Nigeria.

Speaking during the engagement, Shagari who led Niwa acting Managing Director, Yusuf Girei to the meeting, informed that Nigeria remains committed to modernising its inland waterways infrastructure and developing the skilled workforce needed to drive growth in the sector. He noted that the country’s vast waterways network presents significant opportunities for transportation, trade and blue economy development.

According to him, strategic partnerships with internationally recognised maritime institutions are essential to achieving the Federal Government’s objectives of improving safety, efficiency and economic activities on the nation’s inland waterways.

The NIWA Board Chairman stressed that enhanced collaboration in research, training and knowledge exchange would help Nigerian maritime professionals acquire the technical competencies required to address emerging industry challenges and align with global best practices.

Responding, Prof. Mejia reaffirmed the World Maritime University’s commitment to supporting member states through education, research and capacity development initiatives. He commended Nigeria’s growing focus on maritime development and expressed the institution’s readiness to deepen cooperation with relevant agencies and stakeholders in the country.

The WMU President noted that long-term maritime growth can only be sustained through investments in human capital, innovation and strict adherence to international standards.

Both leaders also explored opportunities for expanding specialised training programmes, academic exchanges and institutional partnerships aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s maritime administration and inland waterways management framework.

Informed Maritime stakeholders described the engagement as a positive step towards connecting Nigeria’s inland waterways sector with global centres of excellence and ensuring that the country benefits from international best practices in water transport development.

The meeting formed part of a series of high-level engagements at the IMO Council session, where maritime leaders are discussing policies and initiatives designed to promote safer, more secure and environmentally sustainable shipping worldwide.

The Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Head of Transparency International (TI) Nigeria, Auwal Ibrahim Musa Rafsanjani, has received the Transparency International Amalia Award for Individual Professional Excellence, one of the organisation’s highest honours, recognising outstanding leadership, expertise, and commitment to the global fight against corruption.

The award was presented on July 1, 2026, at the Transparency International Movement Awards Ceremony. The hybrid event marked the conclusion of the TI Summit 2026, which took place from June 29 to July 1 at the TI Secretariat in Berlin, Germany.

Named after the late Amalia Kostanyan, former Chair of Transparency International Armenia, the Amalia Award celebrates exceptional contributions by individuals and Chapters across the Transparency International movement. The Professional Excellence category recognises outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption efforts.

Rafsanjani was honoured for his sustained leadership in promoting transparency, accountability, democratic governance, and anti-corruption reforms in Nigeria and beyond. Under his leadership, CISLAC has strengthened evidence-based policy advocacy, public accountability, fiscal transparency, electoral integrity, and regional collaboration, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s anti-corruption landscape and the broader Transparency International movement.

Speaking during the presentation, Chair of Transparency International, François Valérian, commended Rafsanjani for his unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption and his outstanding leadership of Transparency International Nigeria.

He noted that under Rafsanjani’s stewardship, TI Nigeria has become a more visible and influential voice within the global Transparency International movement, consistently contributing to international conferences, policy discussions, and collective anti-corruption initiatives.

Valérian said Rafsanjani has strengthened the chapter’s reputation through impactful advocacy, resilience, and principled leadership, describing his efforts to advance transparency and accountability in Nigeria and across Africa as exemplary and worthy of global recognition.

Reacting to the recognition, Rafsanjani described the award as a testament to the collective efforts of the CISLAC team, its partners, and anti-corruption advocates. He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing democratic governance, institutional reforms, and accountability across Nigeria, Africa, and the wider global community.

The recognition underscores CISLAC’s growing influence within the global Transparency International movement and reinforces its commitment to promoting good governance, strengthening democratic institutions, and fostering accountability.

The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has expressed profound grief over the passing of the Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom, Oba Yisa Olaniyan Adelakun, describing the late monarch as a distinguished traditional ruler whose leadership strengthened peace, unity and development across the border community.

The Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, conveyed the Command’s condolences on behalf of the management and officers of the Ogun I Area Command, saying the monarch’s death marks the end of an era defined by exemplary service, wisdom and unwavering dedication to his people.

Afeni noted that the late traditional ruler remained a dependable partner in promoting peaceful coexistence and fostering cooperation between the Nigeria Customs Service and host communities within the Ipokia axis.

He described the late Oba as a respected custodian of Yoruba cultural heritage whose reign was characterised by commitment to communal harmony, inclusive leadership and sustainable development across Ipokia Kingdom and neighbouring communities.

According to the Customs Area Controller, the monarch consistently encouraged dialogue, mutual respect and collaboration, creating an enabling environment for effective border management, lawful trade and improved security operations within the Command’s area of responsibility.

Afeni further stated that the late royal father played a strategic role in strengthening the relationship between security agencies and community leaders, a partnership that significantly contributed to maintaining peace and economic stability in the border region.

He said the Command had lost not only a revered monarch but also a father figure, trusted adviser and invaluable stakeholder whose counsel and support would be greatly missed by officers and men of the Service.

The Area Controller stressed that the enduring legacy of Oba Yisa Olaniyan Adelakun would continue to inspire generations of traditional leaders, public institutions and community members committed to nation building and peaceful coexistence.

The Ogun I Area Command extended its heartfelt condolences to the immediate royal family, the Ipokia Traditional Council and the entire law abiding people of Ipokia Kingdom, praying that they find strength and comfort during this period of mourning.

The Command also prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed monarch’s soul, expressing hope that his remarkable contributions to peace, community development and national security cooperation would remain a lasting reference point for future generations.

The statement was signed by Deputy Superintendent of Customs Z. Chado, Public Relations Officer, Ogun I Area Command, for the Customs Area Controller, on July 1, 2026.

For many children, the biggest barrier to success is not talent; it is access. Across parts of Nigeria and other underserved communities, the absence of basic educational resources continues to limit what is possible for thousands of young people. Access Bank UK Polo Day has, over the years, positioned itself as a platform designed to address that gap.
Scheduled for July 4, 2026, in Windsor, the event will convene a global audience of business leaders, philanthropists, royalty, and high-net-worth individuals. While it remains one of the most anticipated fixtures on the social calendar, its focus is clear: to mobilise resources and partnerships that support education for vulnerable children.
What sets the Polo Day apart is how it converts visibility into impact. The event brings together a network of influence and directs it towards practical outcomes, funding classrooms, supporting learning programmes, and enabling children to stay in school.

Through its collaboration with UNICEF and local partners, funds generated have supported education initiatives that target some of the most pressing challenges, including access to facilities, materials, and consistent schooling. These interventions have helped thousands of children continue their education despite economic and social barriers.

The objective for 2026 is to extend this reach, raising more support and improving the scale and quality of interventions. At its core, the initiative is driven by a simple idea: that education should be accessible, regardless of circumstance.

This year’s event will also host His Royal Highness, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, as Special Guest of Honour. He will present the Emir’s Cup, adding a layer of heritage and continuity to the occasion.

A respected figure in both sport and community leadership, the Emir represents a long-standing polo tradition in Nigeria, as well as a broader commitment to social development. His participation reflects the wider purpose of the event: connecting influence, legacy, and impact.

Jamie Simmonds, Managing Director of Access Bank UK, highlighted the importance of the initiative: “This event is about using our platform to create access where it is most needed. By bringing together the right partners and supporters, we are able to deliver outcomes that can make a real difference in the lives of many children.”

Over time, the Polo Day has evolved into more than an annual event. It has become a consistent channel for mobilising support and delivering measurable social impact, demonstrating how corporate platforms can be used to address real challenges.

As preparations continue, the significance of the 2026 edition lies in what it enables. At the end of it all, the real outcome is simple: more children in school, more opportunities created, and better futures made possible.

Amid growing concerns over insecurity, recurring abductions and attacks on communities across Nigeria, the Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) Network has launched a nationwide civic advocacy campaign aimed at pushing for stronger protection of lives and more accountable security responses.

The initiative, unveiled in Abuja on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, will run for 30 days under the theme “Protect Nigerian Lives: End Abductions, Strengthen Communities and Stop the Politicisation of Insecurity.”

According to the organisation, the campaign is designed to move public engagement beyond outrage and focus attention on practical actions capable of strengthening community resilience and improving security governance.

PAVE Network said Nigeria’s insecurity challenge continues to affect communities through abductions, violent extremism, organised criminality, attacks on schools and growing threats to livelihoods, warning that long-term solutions must involve both government action and active citizen participation.

As part of the campaign activities, the network plans to coordinate a national petition, media engagement, state and national town halls, youth and women mobilisation, and policy engagement with State Houses of Assembly on constitutional discussions around state police.

While acknowledging ongoing conversations around decentralised policing, the organisation stressed that any framework for state police must include safeguards against political interference, abuse of power, profiling and violations of human rights.

The network also argued that strengthening local government systems remains central to improving community security, noting that local institutions are often the first line of response for early warning, peacebuilding and service delivery.

PAVE said the campaign would be implemented through its national and state structures as well as affiliated platforms including Youth Against Violent Extremism, Women Against Violent Extremism and Media Against Violent Extremism.

The organisation called on citizens, labour groups, professional associations, civil society organisations, faith leaders and community actors to join the campaign and reinforce its message that protecting lives must remain a national priority.

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, financial inclusion and entrepreneurship through a strategic partnership with the Youth Economic Intervention and De-radicalization Programme (YEIDEP), a Federal Government-backed initiative designed to equip young Nigerians with the skills, support and opportunities required to build sustainable livelihoods.

As part of the collaboration, Fidelity Bank is supporting the enrolment of students and young people into the YEIDEP programme, which aims to address youth unemployment, promote enterprise development and expand economic participation among Nigeria’s growing youth population.

The next phase of the initiative will take place at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, where the institution has confirmed its readiness to host the enrolment exercise for students and youths across the Southeast region. According to the Office of the Vice Chancellor, the exercise is scheduled to hold from July 1 to July 3, 2026, at the University’s Convocation Arena and is expected to target more than 60,000 regular undergraduate students.

Speaking on the partnership, Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development, Fidelity Bank Plc, noted that empowering young people remains central to the bank’s vision of building a more inclusive and prosperous society.

“At Fidelity Bank, we believe that Nigeria’s greatest asset is its people, particularly its youths. Equipping young Nigerians with the right skills, opportunities and financial support is essential to unlocking their potential and accelerating national development.

“Through our digital banking platforms, financial literacy initiatives, youth-focused products and strategic partnerships, we continue to provide young people with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive world. We recognize that access to funding, mentorship and business development support remains a major challenge for many aspiring entrepreneurs, and we are committed to creating pathways that help them overcome these barriers”, said Ede.

The Bank added that its support for YEIDEP aligns with its longstanding commitment to empowering Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, which remain critical drivers of economic growth and job creation in Nigeria.

Interested youths and students are encouraged to open accounts and register through the dedicated Fidelity Bank portal at https://eserve.fidelitybank.ng/oap/?youth=true.

The Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) has announced plans for its 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the inauguration of its first-ever national secretariat, describing the twin events as significant milestones in the association’s decade-long efforts to promote tourism development in Nigeria.

Speaking at a press conference held on Thursday in Ikeja, Lagos, NATOP President, Hajia Bolaji Mustapha, said the anniversary AGM would bring together tourism practitioners, government officials, investors, hospitality operators, development partners, and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing Nigeria’s tourism industry.

Mustapha explained that although the association traditionally rotates its AGM among states with strong tourism potential, the 2026 edition was brought back to Lagos in recognition of the state’s support for tourism development and its strategic role as Nigeria’s tourism and commercial hub.

She disclosed that the event, scheduled for July 8 to 10, 2026, will commence with the commissioning of NATOP’s first secretariat on July 8, followed by a cocktail reception. The main conference and AGM will hold on July 9, while participants will undertake a Lagos city tour, business retreat, and golf tournament as part of the anniversary activities.

According to her, the AGM will be held under the theme: “Unlocking Nigeria’s Tourism Potential: Strengthening Tour Pillars for Sustainable Destination Development.”

“The AGM provides us with an opportunity to review our achievements, strengthen collaboration among stakeholders, promote Nigeria’s tourism assets, advocate supportive policies, and chart a strategic direction for the future of tourism development in the country,” she said.

Mustapha noted that NATOP has used previous AGMs to expose members to tourism destinations across the country, having hosted the event in states such as Kwara, Ekiti, Plateau, Imo, and others.

She further highlighted the association’s recent collaborations with the Lagos State Government in promoting tourism initiatives, including support for local food vendors, tourism exhibitions, and Nigeria’s participation at international tourism events such as the World Travel Market in London and the African Marketplace in Dubai.

Representing the Lagos State Government, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting tourism and cultural development.

She described Lagos as Nigeria’s tourism capital and noted that tourism and entertainment remain key pillars of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s development agenda.

According to her, Lagos continues to attract visitors through its rich cultural heritage, entertainment industry, hospitality offerings, cuisine, festivals, and creative economy.

“We are sitting on gold in the tourism sector. We must continue to promote our culture, heritage, food, environment, and everything that represents us as Nigerians. Tourism has enormous potential for economic growth and national development,” she said.

Oyekan-Ismaila also urged stakeholders to support government efforts by maintaining a clean environment and preserving cultural assets that contribute to the state’s attractiveness as a tourism destination.

Chairman of the 2026 AGM Planning Committee, Mrs. Joy Alexander-Oziegbe, described the anniversary gathering as a landmark event that would showcase positive developments within Nigeria’s tourism sector.

She stressed the need to change negative narratives about the country by highlighting tourism opportunities capable of generating revenue, creating jobs, and attracting investment.

“There are many positive things happening in Nigeria. Through this AGM, we want to demonstrate that domestic and inbound tourism are sustainable and can become major revenue earners for the nation,” she stated.

Also speaking, NATOP Secretariat Project Manager, Mr. Uche Chinonso, disclosed that the association’s new secretariat is a three-bedroom facility designed to serve as a permanent operational base for members.

He explained that the facility would provide office space, meeting venues, and workstations for both members and non-members, while also generating revenue for the association.

“For over ten years, NATOP has operated without a permanent office, holding meetings in rented venues. The secretariat gives the association a physical identity, improves operational efficiency, and provides a platform for greater collaboration among tourism practitioners,” Chinonso said.

The association noted that the 10th Anniversary AGM is expected to strengthen NATOP’s position as a leading voice in Nigeria’s tourism industry while fostering partnerships that will drive innovation, investment, job creation, and sustainable tourism development across the country.

Tripberry, a Lagos-based online travel agency, has launched a talent hunt programme aimed at empowering and rewarding young creatives across Nigeria. The initiative is designed to provide emerging talents within the entertainment ecosystem with a platform to showcase their skills in music, dance, drama, photography and other forms of creative expression.

Speaking on Villa Square, a special segment of Cr8tive 9ja, a weekly tourism and cultural magazine programme hosted by veteran tourism journalist Frank Meke and Bunmi Bade-Adeniji on Mainland 98.3 FM, Lagos, Tripberry’s Digital Marketing Manager, Oyebanji Adeyinka, outlined the requirements for participation in the competition.

According to him, interested participants must possess a creative skill and register through the company’s social media platforms. “You have to be a skilled creative. Once you have identified your talent, you can visit any of our social media pages, especially Instagram, to view the registration requirements. After completing the registration process, participants are required to send ‘Trip-Contest’ to the designated phone number to officially enter the competition,” he said.

Adeyinka noted that the initiative was conceived to encourage young Nigerians to embrace creativity as a viable source of livelihood. “We are pushing this project because many young Nigerian creatives believe they do not receive adequate remuneration for their talents. The response so far has been encouraging, and we urge more young people to seize this opportunity to showcase their creativity to the world,” he said.

He disclosed that the winner of the competition would receive a flight ticket and an all-expenses-paid tourism trip to a destination within Nigeria.

Adeyinka further revealed that exceptional participants from the programme would be considered as Tripberry brand ambassadors and influencers. “This initiative will inspire and encourage them to excel in their chosen fields while creating opportunities for them to earn income,” he added.

Also speaking, Tripberry’s Director of Marketing, Kritika Kaurani, said the programme was inspired by her passion for influencing and promoting young talents. She explained that the initiative was designed to provide young creatives with a platform to showcase their abilities while also helping them build their personal brands.

“We created this project as a package that combines talent development with branding opportunities. It is targeted at young creatives who understand the value of exposure and are willing to leverage the opportunities provided by the platform,” she said.

Kaurani added that beyond the prizes, the programme offers participants the opportunity to reach a global audience and potentially become ambassadors for the Tripberry brand.

“The competition will encourage many young people to showcase their talents. While winners will receive domestic flight tickets and other rewards, the most important aspect of the initiative is the opportunity for participants to gain visibility and connect with a wider audience,” she said.

Tripberry’s Chief Executive Officer, Vinod Kaurani, said although competition within the travel market remains intense, the company views it as an opportunity for growth and innovation. He said the initiative aligns with the company’s vision of promoting both the entertainment and tourism industries.

“We are providing this platform because we believe that entertainment and tourism are among the world’s most significant industries. Through this project, we want Nigerians to understand that travel opportunities exist not only abroad but also within Nigeria. We hope to inspire young creatives to explore opportunities within the country,” he said.

Kaurani further explained that participants would use the Tripberry theme song as part of their creative entries, adding that winners would be announced weekly. “The idea is to integrate our brand identity into the competition. Judging will be based on participants’ creative use of the theme song. Weekly winners will be announced every Wednesday, leading up to the selection of the grand winner,” he said.

Tripberry is an online travel platform that offers services including flight bookings, hotel reservations and visa processing. The platform operates a subscription-based model that provides subscribers with access to discounted travel deals.

According to the company, subscribers pay a monthly fee of N2,500 to access exclusive discounts, while non-subscribers are charged regular market rates.

In a significant demonstration of its commitment to the development of education and community empowerment, Fidelity Bank Plc has donated back-to-school packs to school pupils in Plateau State.

The intervention, which took place in Jos, saw over 600 randomly selected pupils drawn from all 17 Local Government Areas of the state benefit from the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. Each pupil received a school bag containing exercise books, writing materials, a mathematical set, and a water bottle, in a gesture designed to support their learning journey and encourage academic excellence.

The initiative was facilitated by staff of Fidelity Bank’s University of Jos Branch, reflecting the bank’s culture of giving back to the communities it serves through the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), a key feature of the bank’s CSR strategy. Through the programme, staff identify impactful community projects and raise funds to support them, while the bank’s management matches their contributions to expand the reach and impact of each intervention.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, said the initiative underscores the bank’s unwavering commitment to education as a catalyst for national development. “Investing in young people is one of the most impactful ways to build a brighter future, as education equips children with the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities needed to contribute meaningfully to society.

Nwagboh further stated that the intervention reflects Fidelity Bank’s broader commitment to social impact and sustainable community development through initiatives that improve lives and create long-term value. He emphasized that the Bank remains dedicated to empowering future generations through education-focused programs and encouraged the pupils to remain diligent in their studies, reminding them that their aspirations are valid and that the future of Nigeria rests in the hands of well-educated, determined, and inspired young people.

Also speaking at the presentation event, Shunom Leo, Branch Leader, Fidelity Bank, University of Jos Branch, whose team championed the intervention, said the initiative reflects the bank’s dedication to nurturing future leaders.

“This is more than a donation of school items. It is a deliberate investment in the future of Plateau State and in the promise these children represent. Across Nigeria, Fidelity Bank has remained committed to projects that improve lives, support education and strengthen communities,” Leo said.

Representing Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Plateau State Governor, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Ms. Caroline Dafur, commended Fidelity Bank and Plateau State Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) office for what she described as a timely and meaningful investment in children.

“Let me sincerely appreciate Fidelity Bank and the Plateau State SDGs office for organizing this memorable ‘back-to-school’ campaign. This gesture of distributing school bags and learning equipment to our pupils is more than charity; it is an investment in the future of Plateau children,” Dafur said.

She further reaffirmed the Plateau State Government’s commitment to prioritizing education, healthcare, social protection, and the overall wellbeing of children, while calling for increased collaborations to ensure sustained development.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Nanbam Danjuma-Lot, Project Coordinator of the Plateau State SDGs, applauded Fidelity Bank for partnering with the agency to positively impact the lives of children across the state, stating that, “Partnerships such as this demonstrate the power of collaboration in addressing societal challenges. Fidelity Bank has shown commendable leadership by investing in the future of our children, and we hope more organizations will follow this example by contributing meaningfully to their host communities.”

Similarly, Mr. Sunday Amuna, Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), described the intervention as a foundation-laying initiative that would have long-term benefits for the beneficiaries.

“The strength and durability of any structure depend largely on its foundation, the foundation we give these children today will determine the stability of their future. Fidelity Bank has made a meaningful contribution to that foundation and we commend the bank for this impactful intervention,” he said.

Notably, the donation also benefited physically challenged children with varying degrees of disability, reinforcing Fidelity Bank’s commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities for all.

Through initiatives such as the FHHP, Fidelity Bank continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering communities, supporting education and contributing to sustainable development across Nigeria.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving more than 10 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international awards, including the 2025 Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Innovation Award for MSME support; Best Retail and SME Bank Award from Independent Newspapers; Best Bank for Export & Trade Finance and Most Innovative Bank of the Year at the 2025 BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; and Nigeria’s Best Private Bank at the 2025 Euromoney Awards. The Bank also received the inaugural Most Improved Commercial Bank of the Year award by Nairametrics, the SME Bank of the Year award by NewsDirect, and the Straight-Through Processing (STP) Excellence Award by Citi Group, in addition to recognition by Global Brands Magazine for Excellence in Community Empowerment.