Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth and sustainability of Micro, Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (MSMEs) through strategic initiatives aimed at expanding market access, enhancing business capacity and driving long term economic development.
The bank made the commitment at its SME Quarterly Business Forum held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where entrepreneurs, industry experts and business owners gathered to discuss strategies for scaling trade and distribution businesses.
Speaking at the forum themed, “Scaling Trade and Distribution of Businesses for Sustainable Growth,” Executive Director, South, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Pamela Shodipo, said the bank remains focused on helping Nigerian enterprises grow beyond access to finance.
According to her, Fidelity Bank aims to serve as a trusted growth partner by providing businesses with opportunities, knowledge and platforms that enhance competitiveness and sustainability.
She described Port Harcourt as a strategic commercial hub with strong influence across trade, logistics, marine services, manufacturing, agriculture and the energy sector, noting that businesses in the city continue to play a significant role in Nigeria’s economic development.
Shodipo said trade and distribution businesses remain critical to the economy because they connect producers with consumers, strengthen supply chains, create jobs and support livelihoods across the country.
She highlighted several Fidelity Bank initiatives designed to support entrepreneurs, including the Fidelity Nigeria International Trade and Creative Connect (FNITCC), partnerships with the Nigeria Export Promotion Council and Lagos Business School, as well as the Fidelity SME Hub which provides advisory and business support services.
Also speaking, Divisional Head, Small and Medium-scale Enterprises, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Ugochi Osinigwe, said the forum was created to equip business owners with practical insights and networking opportunities that can accelerate growth.
She noted that SMEs remain the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and stressed the bank’s commitment to providing entrepreneurs with access to knowledge, innovation and business development opportunities.
Participants commended Fidelity Bank for creating a platform that addresses key business challenges and offers practical solutions for growth.
One of the participants, Mr. Andy Macozi, described the forum as timely and informative, while Chief Uche Aham, an oil and marine services entrepreneur, praised the initiative for fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration among business owners.
The SME Quarterly Business Forum forms part of Fidelity Bank’s broader efforts to empower entrepreneurs, encourage innovation and promote sustainable economic growth across Nigeria.