Fidelity Bank launches free digital tools for 100 SMEs

In a bold move to accelerate Nigeria’s small business transformation, Fidelity Bank Plc officially launched the Fidelity SME Empowerment Program (FSEP) 2025 on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at its state-of-the-art SME Hub in Gbagada, Lagos.

The event drew a vibrant mix of entrepreneurs, policymakers, and stakeholders, all united by one theme: empowering SMEs through digital innovation.

The flagship initiative, now in its rollout phase, is set to equip 100 growth-ready SMEs with ERPRev-enabled POS systems and a suite of business support tools completely free of charge.

Welcoming attendees, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank (represented by Mr. Stanley Amuchie, Executive Director/Chief Operations and Information Officer), reaffirmed the bank’s enduring commitment to Nigeria’s real economy:

“At Fidelity Bank, we believe SMEs are not just the backbone of our economy—they are the architects of innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth. Through the Fidelity SME Empowerment Program, we are equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, training, and support they need to thrive in today’s digital economy.”

The three-day program features masterclasses, expert-led training, and networking sessions focused on helping SMEs streamline operations, build partnerships, and access new markets.

Mrs. Adaonah Kene-Uyawune, CEO of Manmark, the program’s strategic technology partner, emphasized the transformational potential of ERP tools in her keynote:

“This is a game-changer. We’re not handing out gadgets—we’re delivering real infrastructure. These tools eliminate guesswork, replacing manual bookkeeping with a seamless system that tracks sales, inventory, HR, and profitability in real-time.”

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According to the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, SMEs account for 96% of businesses, employ over 80% of the workforce, and contribute nearly 50% of national GDP. Yet, many still rely on manual records, making them vulnerable to inefficiencies and limiting access to formal credit and growth support.

Fidelity Bank’s initiative arrives at a critical moment, offering SMEs a pathway to digital visibility, better financial planning, and increased resilience in a rapidly digitizing economy.

With over 9.1 million customers, 255 business locations across Nigeria and the UK, and a fast-expanding digital footprint, Fidelity Bank has cemented its place as one of Nigeria’s top-tier commercial banks.

As the program gets underway, Fidelity Bank aims not only to boost SME productivity but to bridge the digital divide and foster a new generation of data-driven, bankable businesses.

“Digital transformation isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity,” said Mr. Ken Opara, Executive Director, Lagos and Southwest. “We’re proud to walk with Nigerian SMEs on this journey of innovation, transparency, and scale.”