Cholera Outbreak: Two inmates die in Kano Correctional Facility

Two inmates have died following an outbreak of cholera at the Kurmawa Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kano State.

The Nigerian Correctional Service said the outbreak was confirmed through laboratory tests on September 23rd by its medical team and the Kano State public health authorities.

In a statement issued by its spokesman, Chief Superintendent of Corrections, J.N Osuji, the outbreak was first detected on September 17 after an inmate developed vomiting and diarrhoea.

One of the deaths occurred at the custodial centre, while the other was recorded at the Kano State Infectious Diseases Hospital.

The Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has sympathised with the families of the deceased and directed that measures to protect inmates and personnel be sustained.

Fidelity Bank Food Project: Bank Distributes Food Packs To Strengthen Food Security

As part of its commitment to support vulnerable communities as well boost food security across the federation, Fidelity Bank Plc has distributed essential food supplies to more than 2,500 beneficiaries across eight communities in Uromi, Irrua, Edo State, under its Fidelity Food Bank initiative.

The intervention, held at the Uromi Town Hall in Esan Central Local Government Area of the state, underscores the bank’s continued efforts to improve the wellbeing of families and strengthen communities through targeted Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) interventions.

Speaking at the distribution event, the Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, said the intervention demonstrated the bank’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in the communities where it operates.

“Today’s distribution will provide over 2,500 beneficiaries with essential food supplies. This event goes beyond the distribution of food items; it is about uplifting lives, strengthening communities and supporting families with resources that contribute to their wellbeing and resilience.”

Nwagboh noted that the initiative also contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2), which seeks to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, as well as promote sustainable agriculture.

He noted that the Uromi intervention was designed to reach families across eight communities and provide immediate assistance to those affected by food insecurity.

The Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, also disclosed that Fidelity Bank distributes 10,000 food packs every month through the Fidelity Food Bank programme, working with 19 partners across the country to reach communities where the need is greatest.

The intervention received commendation from the Edo State Government, with Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Jerry Uwangue, praising Fidelity Bank for extending the humanitarian initiative to residents of Uromi.

Uwangue said the intervention demonstrated the important role corporate organisations can play in improving community wellbeing, particularly at a time when families are faced with increasing demands on their resources.

 L-R: Branch Leader, Fidelity Bank Plc, Uromi, Joseph Ero; Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Edo State, Jerry Uwangue; and Team Lead, CSR, Fidelity Bank Plc, Victoria Abuka; at the Fidelity Food Bank distribution event held recently at Udomi, Irrua, in Esan Central Local Government Area, of Edo State.

Beneficiaries of the bank’s gesture also expressed appreciation to Fidelity Bank and its partners for the intervention, noting that the food packs would provide meaningful relief and as well help ease the burden of feeding their families.

Fundamental Rights Lawsuit: Court of Appeal Clears Fidelity Bank Plc

The Court of Appeal Abuja has overturned a Federal Capital Territory High Court decision which held Fidelity Bank Plc liable in a fundamental rights case involving the anti graft agency; the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC).

A three-member panel led by Justice Adebukola Banjoko delivered the judgment on September 14th 2026, allowing Fidelity Bank’s appeal and overturning the lower court’s finding of liability against the bank.

The case originated from suit number CV/6258/23, filed by Michael Kundera to enforce his fundamental rights following his arrest and detention between May 16 and 16, 2023 alleging that he was detained without being charged before a court or granted administrative bail.

The respondents in the case included the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, former EFCC Chairman Abdulrasheed Bawa, an EFCC officer identified as Calistus and Fidelity Bank Plc.

In its judgment delivered in April 2024, the FCT High Court, presided over by Justice Peter Kekemeke, declared Michael Kundera’s arrest and detention unlawful and a violation of his fundamental rights.

The court ordered the respondents, jointly or severally, to pay him 10 million naira for the violation and an additional 2 million naira as costs of the action.

The trial judge also observed that Michael Kundera, who was reported to be 75 years old at the time, should not have been subjected to such treatment. 

The court further held that continued invitations and threats against him in relation to a matter that had already been decided exceeded the lawful bounds of the respondents.

Through his counsel, O. Orji, Michael Kundera had linked the dispute to a parcel of land at the Foreign Affairs Quarters, which he claimed lawfully belonged to him.

 He also maintained that the matter was already pending before the Court of Appeal in suit number CA/ABJ/CV/533/2021. 

Among other reliefs, he sought declarations that his arrest and detention violated rights guaranteed under Sections 35 and 36 of the 1999 Constitution, an order restraining further invitations or threats of arrest, and 500 million naira in exemplary or aggravated damages.

Fidelity Bank had challenged the High Court’s decision, arguing that there was no credible evidence connecting the bank to Michael Kundera’s arrest, detention or the alleged infringement of his constitutional rights.

The bank explained that its involvement was limited to a petition submitted to the EFCC concerning allegations of criminal conduct by legal entities that had obtained a 100 million naira loan procurement order for a specific project but allegedly diverted the funds for personal use. 

It maintained that Michael Kundera was not the subject of the petition therefore no basis for holding the bank responsible for the alleged violation of his rights.

Fidelity Bank consequently asked the appellate court to determine whether the trial judge had properly exercised his discretion in granting reliefs against the bank without sufficient material evidence establishing its involvement or liability.

The Court of Appeal upheld the bank’s position. The panel found that there was no credible evidence before the trial court establishing that Fidelity Bank had infringed Michael Kundera’s fundamental rights. It also held that he had failed to discharge the burden of proof required to establish wrongdoing by the bank and justify the reliefs granted against it.

The appellate court’s decision consequently reversed the finding of liability against Fidelity Bank and cleared the bank of responsibility for the alleged infringement.

HerFidelity Initiative By Fidelity Bank

Why the Right Community Could Be a Woman’s Greatest Advantage

For generations, women have been encouraged to work harder, save more and persevere. Yet personal determination, while essential, cannot overcome every barrier. Progress happens faster when ambition is supported by access to finance, practical knowledge, trusted networks and opportunities for growth.

Across Nigeria, women are building businesses, advancing careers, supporting families and creating employment. Their contributions are visible in boardrooms, markets, offices, factories and communities. However, many still face limited access to capital, business guidance and professional networks that could help them move from potential to sustained success.

This reality explains the growing appeal of communities designed specifically to help women thrive. Women increasingly want financial relationships that understand their ambitions, respond to their realities and support their development beyond traditional banking transactions.

HerFidelity, the women focused proposition from Fidelity Bank, reflects this changing expectation. It brings together financial services, business education, enterprise support, networking and lifestyle engagement within a community created for women at different stages of their personal, professional and entrepreneurial journeys.

More Than Access to Finance

Money matters, but access to finance is only one part of the journey. Sustainable progress also requires knowledge, confidence, meaningful relationships and personal wellbeing.

HerFidelity addresses these interconnected needs through four focus areas, financial support, business education and capacity building, entrepreneurship support, and health and wellness.

Through FundHer, eligible women led businesses can access financing for working capital, asset acquisition and business expansion, subject to the applicable terms and requirements. This support can help entrepreneurs strengthen their operations, pursue new opportunities and position their businesses for sustainable growth.

However, capital achieves greater impact when women also have the knowledge to deploy it effectively. HerFidelity therefore connects women to training, mentorship and networking opportunities that can strengthen their financial and business decisions.

These opportunities can be just as valuable as funding. The right mentor can provide clarity during a difficult business decision. A trusted network can create access to customers, partners and new markets. Practical knowledge can help an entrepreneur avoid costly mistakes and build with greater confidence.

The inclusion of health and wellness also reflects a more complete understanding of success. Women frequently balance demanding professional, business and family responsibilities. Supporting their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing is therefore important to building sustainable achievement.

The Power of Community

The most compelling idea behind HerFidelity is simple. Women make greater progress when they have the right support around them.

A business owner may need financing today and mentorship tomorrow. A young professional may begin by learning how to manage money and later require a network to support her entrepreneurial ambitions. An experienced executive may need a platform through which she can share knowledge, mentor others and create opportunities for the next generation.

A strong community connects these women and their experiences. It allows knowledge to circulate, relationships to grow and opportunities to reach more people. One womans progress can inspire another woman, strengthen a family and create wider economic value.

This is how a banking proposition can become something more meaningful. It can become a platform through which women access opportunities, develop confidence and support one another.

A Smarter Choice for Women

For Nigerian women, joining HerFidelity is about more than choosing a financial product. It is about entering a community designed to recognise their goals and provide relevant support throughout their journey.

Whether the objective is to expand a business, improve financial confidence, develop new capabilities or form meaningful professional relationships, HerFidelity offers a platform for taking the next step.

The financial institutions that will matter most in the future are those that help customers translate money into meaningful progress. For women, that means access to finance supported by knowledge, networks, wellbeing and a community that understands their aspirations.

HerFidelity represents that broader vision. It recognises women as entrepreneurs, professionals, leaders and contributors to national development. It also acknowledges that when women receive the right support, the benefits extend to businesses, families and communities.

For women ready to build, learn, connect and grow, HerFidelity offers more than banking. It offers a community where ambition can find opportunity and where individual progress can become shared prosperity.

OLU JACOBS: 1942-2026

Life and times of a legendary filmmaker 

The global film community is mourning the death of legendary actor, film executive, drama enthusiast and theatre arts professional Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs  popularly called  Olu Jacobs or Uncle Olu.

The 84 year old renowned thespian was said to have died in the early hours of Wednesday September 16, 2026 in Lagos as announced by his son Olusoji Jacobs.

Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs " Olu Jacobs" as he was fondly called by many was born 11th July, 1942 and hailed from Abeokuta Ogun State; though he spent part of his childhood in Kano State, Northern Nigeria; where he developed passion for acting, after he was said to have watched a concert performance by the late Nigerian actor and playwright Hubert Ogunde.

Olu Jacobs started his career in the 1970s and 80s where he starred in British Television shows and international films such as "The Dogs of War", "Ashanti", "Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend", "Pirates", "The Goodies", The Professionals" among other tv series.

The iconic cultural, social, and artistic edifice; Glover Memorial Hall in the hearts of Lagos Island is a building symbolic to the late Olu Jacobs whom the Lagos State Government handed over its management to the Lufodo Group; a theatre and film production company founded by the veteran actor Olu Jacobs and his wife, Joke Silva.

Fidelity Bank Promotes 13% Of Its Workforce

 Strengthens Performance-Driven Culture

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has promoted 433 employees through its 2026 Promotion and Notch Award Exercise; which saw 13 per cent of its workforce benefiting from the exercise.

A reflection of a steady increase from the 12 per cent and 11 per cent recorded in 2025 and 2024, when 376 and 337 employees were promoted respectively.

The initiative reflects the Fidelity Bank's unwavering commitment to recognising excellence, rewarding outstanding performance, and fostering a high-performance culture across the banking institution.

Since assumption of office as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Nneka Onyeali Ikpe has overseen annual promotion exercises designed to recognise employee contributions, strengthen institutional capabilities as well as build a robust leadership pipeline. 

Beyond promotions, Fidelity Bank has continued to invest in employee welfare through initiatives aimed at improving productivity, workplace satisfaction and overall staff wellbeing.

The Bank increased salaries across all categories and grade levels in 2022, 2024 and 2025. It also deployed staff buses to ease commuting, enhanced medical support and expanded learning and development programmes. 

In addition, the Bank extended its mortgage loan and home ownership scheme to employees from Assistant Banking Executive to Deputy Manager cadres, while increasing the applicable mortgage limits for qualified staff in line with current market realities.

This positions Fidelity Bank among the few institutions that provide mortgage support to employees below the Manager cadre.

The Bank has also sustained initiatives that promote employee engagement, collaboration, work-life balance, professional certification, and continuous upskilling, underscoring its focus on building a motivated and future-ready workforce.

Industry observers note that these investments have helped reinforce Fidelity Bank's reputation as a great place to work and a preferred employer within Nigeria's financial services industry.

The 2025 promotion exercise reflects Fidelity Bank’s broader people strategy to attract, develop, reward and retain top talent by recognising discipline, professionalism, innovation, customer-focus and sustained performance, while preparing employees for greater responsibilities and strengthening the Bank’s position as an employer of choice.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 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.

Subscribe to Dangote Refinery IPO Through Fidelity Bank

In less than two minutes investors seeking to subscribe to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery Initial Public Offer (IPO) can complete the process through Fidelity Bank’s digital channels.

The Bank has provided multiple subscription options designed to serve existing Fidelity Bank customers, corporate organisations and non-customers in Nigeria and abroad. The available channels include the Fidelity Bank iOS Mobile App, Android Mobile App, corporate banking platform for Fidelity corporate customers and designated Fidelity Bank branches nationwide.

A major feature of the bank’s subscription soluition is the availability of Virtual Accounts for investors who do not maintain accounts with Fidelity Bank. Through this option, non-Fidelity Bank customers in Nigeria and abroad can initiate their subscriptions through the Fidelity Bank website, receive dedicated Virtual Account details and fund their applications from an operational bank account.

The Virtual Account option extends access to prospective investors without requiring them to open a regular Fidelity Bank account before subscribing. It also supports third-party funded subscriptions and provides non-customers with a convenient digital route for participating in the offer.

Existing retail customers can complete their subscriptions through the Fidelity Bank Mobile App on iOS and Android devices, while corporate customers can subscribe through the Bank’s corporate online banking platform, subject to the applicable inputter and authoriser process. For additional support, investors may visit the nearest Fidelity Bank branch or contact Fidelity TrueServe by calling 070034335489, sending a WhatsApp message to 09030005252, or emailing trueserve@fidelitybank.ng. Dedicated personnel are available around the clock to guide intending subscribers and ensure a seamless subscription experience.

Investors are expected to provide the relevant identification and account information. This may include a Bank Verification Number for non-Fidelity Bank account holders, a National Identification Number for minors and an active operational account or online banking profile for Fidelity Bank customers.

Investors who do not already have a Central Securities Clearing System account can also participate in the IPO. A stockbroking account may be opened through Fidelity Securities Limited to facilitate the electronic crediting of allotted shares after completion of the allotment process.

Once a subscription has been successfully authorised, the investor’s selected account will be debited or the assigned Virtual Account funded, as applicable. The investor will subsequently receive a confirmation message, transaction reference and receipt as evidence of the application.

The initiative reinforces the Bank’s commitment to expanding access to Nigeria’s capital market by providing investors with simple, inclusive and technology-driven subscription options.

Prospective investors are advised to review the approved Offer Prospectus carefully before making an investment decision. The prospectus contains the applicable eligibility conditions, price, minimum subscription requirement, permissible multiples, offer period and other terms governing the IPO.

Kano SME Forum: Fidelity Bank Rallies Support for Northern Businesses

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth and sustainability of Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SMEs) through the Kano edition of its Quarterly Business Forum, which brought together entrepreneurs, business owners, industry stakeholders and customers to explore practical strategies for business growth and resilience.

The forum, themed, "Positioning Northern Businesses for Growth," provided participants with valuable insights into strengthening business operations, improving access to finance, enhancing financial management and leveraging opportunities that can drive sustainable enterprise development across Northern Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, Executive Director, North, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Sufiyanu Garba, described Northern Nigeria as a critical driver of the country's economic future and stressed the need to unlock the region's vast entrepreneurial potential through strategic support and partnerships.

"The North occupies a critical place in Nigeria's economic future. With its vast agricultural resources, strong trading culture, manufacturing capacity and large consumer market, the region has enormous potential for sustainable economic growth. Fidelity Bank remains committed to helping businesses unlock this potential through financing, market access, advisory support and strategic partnerships," he said.

Garba noted that the Quarterly Business Forum reflects the Bank's commitment to empowering businesses beyond access to finance.

"Supporting businesses is central to our purpose, and our ambition is to be more than a provider of funds. We want to be a trusted partner that understands businesses and provides the financing, knowledge, connections and solutions they need to grow. Kano and the wider North have the talent, enterprise and resources to play a leading role in Nigeria's economic future, and Fidelity Bank is committed to supporting that growth," he emphasised.

In her remarks, Divisional Head, SME Banking, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Ugochi Osinigwe, stated that the Quarterly Business Forum was created as a platform for engaging directly with entrepreneurs and understanding the realities confronting businesses across key sectors of the economy.

"This forum is more than an engagement; it is a listening platform. We are here to deepen our relationships, understand the unique challenges facing businesses across sectors and hear directly from entrepreneurs on how we can serve them better. Our commitment goes beyond traditional banking, as we continue to provide products, advisory services and partnerships that help businesses build, scale and thrive," she said.

Osinigwe also highlighted Fidelity Bank's commitment to reducing the cost of doing business for entrepreneurs through zero-maintenance-fee account offerings and free capacity-building programmes designed to equip business owners with practical skills in business structuring, record keeping, financial management and access to finance.

"We invest significantly in training because many SMEs struggle due to limited knowledge of essential business practices. Through our physical and digital learning platforms, we help entrepreneurs develop the skills required to become more structured, sustainable and bankable," she noted.

 L-R: Executive Director, North, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr Sufiyanu Garba; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, I.G. Best Company, Mr. Okereke Ignatus Mmbonye; and Divisional Head, SME Banking, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs Ugochi Osinigwe; at the Fidelity Bank Quarterly Business Forum held recently in Kano.

Participants at the forum commended Fidelity Bank for creating a platform that delivers practical business insights and fosters meaningful engagement with entrepreneurs.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of I.G. Best Company, Mr. Okereke Ignatus Mmbonye, noted that Fidelity Bank's support for SMEs extends beyond financing.

"Fidelity Bank has demonstrated that its commitment to SMEs goes beyond access to credit. Platforms such as this provide valuable knowledge and connections that can make a real difference to growing businesses," he said.

Similarly, Managing Director of Nabila Oil Mills, Mr. Sufiyanu Salisu Ahmad, praised the Bank for creating opportunities for direct engagement between financial institutions and the business community.

"I appreciate Fidelity Bank for creating this platform to engage directly with entrepreneurs and understand the challenges we face. It is encouraging to see a bank take such a practical approach to supporting businesses," Ahmad stated.

The Quarterly Business Forum is part of Fidelity Bank's broader commitment to strengthening Nigeria's SME ecosystem through access to finance, enterprise development, financial education, financial inclusion and strategic business support. It will be recalled that Fidelity Bank recently won the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Service Ambassadors Award for the Highest Impact on MSMEs Accessing Credit for the First Time, in recognition of its contribution to deepening financial inclusion, improving access to credit and supporting enterprise growth.

Ranked among Nigeria's leading banks, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 10 million customers through its digital banking channels, 255 business offices across Nigeria, and its United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is a recipient of several local and international awards, including the 2025 Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Innovation Award for MSME Support; the 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, the Straight-Through Processing (STP) Excellence Award by Citi Group, and recognition by Global Brands Magazine for Excellence in Community Empowerment

2026/2027 Academic Session: How Smart School Proprietors Are Positioning for Success

On a quiet Monday morning, the proprietor of a growing private school walks through the premises of her school before the first bell rings. 

The classrooms are freshly painted, teachers are preparing their lessons, and parents are arriving with children eager to begin another academic year.

Behind the excitement of the new session is a list of urgent financial decisions.

The school needs more desks to accommodate increasing enrolment. Some computers in the ICT laboratory must be replaced. The school bus requires repairs, additional teachers must be recruited, and suppliers are waiting for payment. Beside the school is an empty plot that could become a new classroom block, if the required funding is available.

Her school is growing, but its financial resources must grow with it.

This is the reality facing many private school owners in Nigeria as the 2026/2027 academic session begins. Enrolment is increasing, and parents expect better facilities, stronger security, modern technology and improved learning outcomes. However, school fees are collected at specific periods, while many important expenses must be settled before students return.

For smart school proprietors, the question is no longer simply how to raise money. The more important consideration is how to find the right financial partner and access a school loan that supports sustainable growth.

Why Growing Schools Need the Right Financing

Every successful school begins with a vision. It may start with a few classrooms, a small team of teachers, and a proprietor determined to transform lives through education. Over time, the school earns the confidence of parents, attracts more students, and becomes an important part of its community.

With success comes greater responsibility. More students may require additional classrooms, furniture, teaching materials, school buses, technology, security infrastructure, and qualified staff. A school may also need to renovate existing facilities, introduce new programmes, or establish another campus.

Delaying these investments can restrict enrolment, reduce competitiveness, and affect the quality of education provided to students.

This is where Fidelity Bank comes in.

Fidelity EduLoan. Tailored Financing for Schools in Nigeria

The Fidelity EduLoan is designed to meet the unique financial needs of educational institutions and other stakeholders within the Nigerian education sector.

Through the solution, eligible schools can access tailored financing to support operating expenses, upgrade infrastructure, acquire educational resources, and manage cash flow more effectively.

The Fidelity EduLoan is available as a short-term loan or overdraft facility. Its repayment terms are structured around school fee collection cycles, helping proprietors manage the difference between when expenses arise and when fees are received.

Subject to applicable terms and credit assessment, the Fidelity EduLoan can support classroom renovations, school furniture, teaching materials, computers, technology equipment, school buses, books, uniforms, generators, salaries, operating expenses, new buildings, and facility expansion.

For proprietors preparing for resumption, important development plans do not necessarily have to wait until every school fee has been collected. With proper records, sound planning, and an appropriate financing structure, schools can approach the new academic session with greater confidence.

A Financial Partner That Understands the School Calendar

Schools operate differently from many other businesses. Income is often seasonal, but expenses continue throughout the year.

Salaries, maintenance, utilities, transportation, security, and learning resources must be paid for, even when school fee collections are between cycles. This makes effective cash flow management essential for every school proprietor.

Fidelity Bank understands the financial rhythm of educational institutions.

The Fidelity EduLoan helps eligible schools sustain operations during admission, registration, resumption, and term preparation periods. It also provides a financing pathway for infrastructure development, resource acquisition, and institutional expansion.

This combination of working capital support and asset financing positions Fidelity Bank as more than a place to keep school funds. The Bank is a financial solutions partner that can help school owners plan, manage, and finance different stages of their growth.

Beyond School Loans. Building Financially Strong Institutions

A successful school requires more than access to funding. It also needs financial discipline, accurate records, reliable payment systems, effective budgeting, and a clear understanding of cash flow.

This is why the relationship between a school and its bank matters.

By working with Fidelity Bank, proprietors can build a stronger financial foundation for their institutions. They can improve transaction records, plan for seasonal obligations, manage collections, and structure funding around clearly defined business needs.

Fidelity Bank places strong emphasis on supporting small and medium enterprises through personalised service and digitally enabled banking solutions.

For school owners, this means having a financial partner that can support immediate operational requirements and longer term ambitions. The relationship may begin with preparing for a new academic session, but it can develop into support for new facilities, administrative efficiency, technology led learning, improved payment processes, and future expansion.

Supporting the Nigerian Education Ecosystem

Fidelity Bank commitment to education extends beyond school financing.

Education is a well-established focus area within the Bank corporate social responsibility approach with a range of initiatives aimed at improving educational infrastructure, creating better learning environments, and providing learning materials.

Its interventions have included back-to-school donations, financial literacy programmes, school renovations, and initiatives supporting educators and students.

This commitment reflects the understanding that supporting a school also means supporting the teachers who inspire students, the parents who invest in their children, the entrepreneurs who create employment, and the young people who will shape the future of Nigeria.

Why Smart School Owners Choose Fidelity Bank

As the 2026/2027 academic session commences, school proprietors will make decisions that could define the next stage of their institutions.

Some may postpone expansion because the required funding is unavailable. Others may continue struggling with seasonal cash flow pressures without a structured financing solution.

Smart school proprietors will prepare early, maintain accurate financial records, and work with a bank that understands the educational mission and the business of running a successful school.

Whether the priority is renovating classrooms, buying furniture, upgrading technology, acquiring a school bus, managing operating expenses, or expanding student capacity, the Fidelity EduLoan provides eligible schools with a pathway from ambition to action.

When a school grows, its impact reaches far beyond its gates. It creates jobs, strengthens communities, increases the confidence of parents, and equips another generation for success.

As the school bell rings for the new academic session, the lesson for every forward looking proprietor is clear.

With the right vision and Fidelity Bank as your financial solutions partner, the next chapter of your school can begin today.

Plateau Cholera Outbreak

 

The Plateau State Government says it has contained the outbreak of cholera recorded in two local government areas of the state since July.

The state is winding down an oral cholera vaccination exercise in affected communities, as part of measures to prevent a resurgence of the disease; an exercise that has recorded encouraging turnout.

State Commissioner for Health, Nicholas Baamlong, says the outbreak has been successfully contained, while surveillance and preventive measures are being sustained to guard against a recurrence.

The Plateau State Government has said it would continue surveillance, monitoring and follow-up activities across affected communities to ensure the state remains cholera-free.

PCN Shuts 8 Pharmacies In Kano

 

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has shut down an illegal drug cluster at the Groundnut Pyramid, popularly known as Dalan-Gyada, along Katsina Road, Kano.

The council’s registrar, Ibrahim Ahmed, disclosed this yesterday while addressing journalists after a four-day enforcement operation in Kano.

Ahmed, represented by the council’s head of enforcement, Suleiman Chiroma, said the cluster was shut down due to the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines sold along the Katsina Road cannot be guaranteed.

He said the operation led to the sealing of 797 premises, including eight pharmacies, 352 patent medicine stores, and 437 illegal outlets.

The illegal premises accounted for 38 per cent of all facilities sealed due to one or more regulatory breaches.

Ayilamo Community Invasion: Governor Alia Reacts

The Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the attack on Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area, which claimed 11 lives, which included four police officers.

Governor Alia urged security personnel to intensify its investigation and pursue every available lead to identify and apprehend other accomplices, collaborators, sponsors and anyone connected with the attack.

The Governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula also commiserated with the victims and their families, while commending the Department of State Services, DSS, for the arrest of three suspects allegedly linked to the attack.

Governor Alia described the attack as despicable and a grave threat to peace, security and stability in Benue State.

He described the killing of four police officers as painful noting that it underscores the enormous sacrifices being made by security personnel in the line of duty.

Benue Attack: 11 Killed In Ayilamo Community

Four police officers and seven civilians have been confirmed dead following an armed attack on Ayilamo Community in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.

In a statement by the State Police Command's public relations officer DSP Orchia Aondongu the attackers, described as suspected armed bandits, invaded Ayilamo Community in large numbers on Wednesday evening.

Police operatives, including personnel of the Police Mobile Force, tactical teams and conventional officers deployed to the area, responded swiftly and engaged the attackers in a sustained operation.

The Command says the operation lasted about seven hours, with security operatives successfully repelling the attack which forced the assailants to retreat into the surrounding forest.

Commissioner of Police Benue State, Cletus Nwadiogbu, has commended the courage and resilience of the operatives, while paying tributes to the four fallen officers as well commiserated with the families of the deceased civilians and the people of Ayilamo Community.

FG On Ownership Of Kings College Lagos

The Federal Government has clarified that King’s College, Lagos, has not been sold or privatised, noting it retains legal ownership of the 117-year-old institution. 

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed this yesterday in a statement to clarify the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) concession agreement with the King’s College Old Boys’ Association.

In the statement, signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, the minister explained that the concession only transferred responsibility for financing, rehabilitating, modernising, operating and maintainance of the school to the association.

Alausa stressed that the Federal Government retains its statutory, regulatory, monitoring, inspection and enforcement powers over the institution.

He said the concession was designed to address the institution’s infrastructure and operational needs as well as secure its long-term sustainability.

TEXTBOOKS: FG Sets Benchmark For Unity Schools

The Nigerian Government has set 70 per cent as the minimum benchmark for textbooks to qualify for ranking which draws a firm line against substandard instructional materials in declaration that books which fall below the required standard cannot be allowed to compromise the quality of education in Nigeria.

The minister of Education, Tunji Alausa who made the declaration in Abuja while he received the report and ranked list from the country’s first national textbook assessment and ranking exercise, has affirmed September 14th as resumption date for federal unity colleges.

Alausa explained that the national assessment would be conducted in three cycles to cover all levels of the basic and senior secondary school curriculum. 

He said henceforth the curriculum would be reviewed every three years to ensure it remains responsive to emerging educational, technological and societal needs.

NELFUND: Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences

  

More than 301 students of the Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, Eleyele, Ibadan, have received one hundred and forty eight million three hundred and forty two thousand Naira in education loans under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund NELFUND scheme for the 2025/2026 academic session.

This was disclosed in an acknowledgement letter from the institution to NELFUND signed by the Provost, Dr. Owolabi Gbonjubola, expressed appreciation to the NELFUND management for the intervention.

The largest tranche of one hundred and thirty eight million six hundred and seventy two million was disbursed to 283 students on March 10, 2026.

A second tranche of two million three hundred and twenty eight thousand Naira followed on March 12th for the benefit of four students, while a third tranche of seven million three hundred and forty two thousand Naira was received on April 9th, for 14 students.

Elder Statesman Bamanga Tukur Dies

The Adamawa State government has announced the passing of Nigeria's elder statesman, the third Executive Governor of the defunct Gongola State and the former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP Alhaji Bamanga Tukur; who died aged 90 on Saturday September 12th 2026, three days to his 91st birthday.

Governor  Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State announced with deep sadness the passing of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, whom he described as an elder statesman, accomplished businessman and distinguished politician.

Governor Fintiri described his death as a monumental loss to Adamawa State and Nigeria, commending his courage, foresight, patriotism and lifelong commitment to public service.

Fintiri said the late Bamanga Tukur was a colossus who made remarkable contributions to the development of Adamawa State and Nigeria, whose wealth of experience, wisdom and commitment to public service earned him a place of honour in Nigeria's history.

The Governor extended his condolences to the deceased’s immediate family, friends, associates and the people of Adamawa State, urging them to draw strength from his enduring legacy of service and leadership.

In a statement by Chief press Secretary to the Governor, Humwashi Winosikou,  Governor Fintiri has declared a three day mourning across Adamawa State, during which all government flags shall fly at half-mast.

He prayed Almighty Allah to forgive the late Tukur's shortcomings, grant him Aljannah Firdaus, and give his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Oyo Safe Schools: September 14th Resumption

The Oyo State Police Command, in collaboration with the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), has launched a Safe School initiative aimed at strengthening security around schools as well as creating a safer learning environment across the state.

The initiative, which coincided with the 42nd anniversary celebration of the PCRC in Oyo State, is part of the command’s renewed efforts to enhance school safety as schools resume for the new academic session.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka the command said the initiative would focus on increased police visibility around schools, protection of students, teachers and other school personnel, safeguarding of school infrastructure, improved community-based intelligence gathering and prompt response to emerging security threats.

The command said it would continue to deploy intelligence-led policing, strategic community engagement and proactive security measures to anticipate and prevent threats to schools and their occupants.

It urged school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents, students and members of the public to remain security-conscious and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles, movements or activities around schools.

Diphtheria: School Safety

The Plateau State Government has announced the reopening of public and private primary and secondary schools across the state, following the temporary closure of schools over the outbreak of diphtheria.

The government says measures have been put in place to reduce the risk of transmission to protect pupils and students as academic activities resume.

State Commissioner for Information, Joyce Ramnap, in a statement has urged schools to remain vigilant and promptly report any child presenting symptoms associated with diphtheria.

Ramnap said the state government has been working round the clock to strengthen preventive and response measures aimed at containing the disease and minimising the risk of transmission within schools.

Parents and guardians were also advised to pay close attention to the personal hygiene and health of their children and wards.

WIMCA 2026

Union Bank And Its Brand Chief Get Thumbs Up For Gender Inclusion

Union Bank of Nigeria has emerged the Most Outstanding financial institution in Gender Inclusion at the Women in Marketing and Communications Conference and Awards (WIMCA) 2026, recently held at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island,  Lagos.

The laudable gesture is an affirmation of Union Bank’s commitment to advancing gender diversity through an inclusive workplace and financial ecosystem that empowers women, female entrepreneurs, and professionals with tailored products, capacity building, mentorship, networking, and broader economic opportunities.

WIMCA 2026 themed “Grow, Give, Glow: Building Resilience for Distinction,” convened leading female marketing and communications professionals from across Africa to explore industry trends, leadership, resilience, and women’s advancement within the brands marketing ecosystem.

Dubbed the largest gathering of female marketing and communications professionals on the African continent, the event brought together various speakers including Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko, who was also named as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Marketing and Communications.

Elated Aluko alongside other leading communications and brand executives who gathered for the prestigious conference described the feat and recognition as a strong validation of our sustained commitment to advancing gender inclusion as a driver of institutional excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.

She said Union Bank is proud to champion platforms and initiatives that empower women to lead with confidence, build meaningful careers, as well as contribute significantly to the evolution of the marketing and communications industry.

The honour further strengthens the bank's resolve to create greater opportunities for women across its workplace, customer base, and wider society.

Established by leading Nigerian brand and marketing magazine "Brand Communicator", WIMCA has, since its inception, served as a premier platform for amplifying female leadership and advancing women’s participation in the brand, marketing, and communications industry.

Union Bank says it will continue to engage platforms that advance women’s empowerment and meaningful participation across the marketing communications industry; committed to fostering inclusive growth, strengthening opportunities for women, and contributing to the continued advancement of the brand, marketing, and communications landscape.