It is no news that the Nigerian economy recently slipped into a recession due to the Covid-19 pandemic leading to a loss of income for lots of citizens as well as increase in the nation’s poverty level.
According to the World Bank, the pandemic is projected to have pushed about eleven million Nigerians into poverty in 2020 and the number of poor people forecast to rise to 100.9 million by 2022.
Fortunately, several individuals, brands, businesses and institutions are working to ensure that families are protected during this period, with some donating resources and going as far as pivoting their business models to ensure that products and services are easily accessible. One example is leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank PLC.
A classic example of the Bank’s humanitarian activities is its distribution of relief materials to Internal Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Taraba State.
Reaffirming its commitment to enriching the lives of people and communities where it operates, Fidelity Bank, under the aegis of the Fidelity Helping Hand Programme, partnered with the Hope Afresh Foundation (HAF) to distribute essentials including food and sanitary wares to IDPs in Taraba State. The Bank also pledged to continue partnering with the foundation on more sustainable humanitarian projects.
This is not the only benevolent act the Bank has engaged in. Commemorating the 2021 Children’s Day, the Bank gave back to society by donating items to the Heritage Home Orphanage, Lagos.
Additionally, the Bank, through its representatives, gave the children of the Home their time and attention and listened to their needs and aspirations. This selfless act was acknowledged by the General Manager of the Home, who commended the leading Bank for its numerous strides in humanitarian services.
Fidelity Bank customers have also been beneficiaries of its generousity through the Get Alert in Millions (GAIM) campaign. Launched in 2019, Fidelity Bank’s GAIM promo is a savings initiative of the bank specifically aimed at promoting a savings culture among Nigerians. Through this campaign, a total of N120 million has been given to several Fidelity Bank customers.
Fidelity Bank has given over N9 million to 62 children who are SWEETA account holders. This is in addition to the numerous perks the Bank has gifted to holders of this account, including free back-to-school packages, job opportunities and career counselling.
Under the leadership of its visionary leader, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the Bank has played a crucial role in cushioning the effects of the pandemic for many families through its projects. Through acts of charity and CSR projects, Fidelity Bank continues to help Nigerians not only make better financial decisions but also lead better lives.