Fidelity Bank Plc has reinforced its commitment to education and community development by donating back-to-school packs to more than 600 schoolchildren across Plateau State under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
The outreach, held in Jos, benefited randomly selected pupils from all 17 Local Government Areas of the state. Each child received a school bag containing exercise books, writing materials, a mathematical set, and a water bottle to support their academic journey and encourage excellence in learning.
The intervention was facilitated by staff of the bank’s University of Jos Branch through the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), a flagship CSR initiative that empowers employees to identify and fund impactful community projects, with the bank’s management matching staff contributions to expand the programme’s reach.
Speaking during the presentation, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications at Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, described education as a powerful driver of national development, stressing that investing in children is one of the most effective ways to build a prosperous future.
According to him, the initiative reflects Fidelity Bank’s unwavering commitment to creating sustainable social impact by empowering young people through education.
“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,” he said.
Nwagboh urged the beneficiaries to remain focused on their studies, noting that their dreams are valid and that Nigeria’s future depends on educated, determined, and inspired young people.
Branch Leader of Fidelity Bank’s University of Jos Branch, Shunom Leo, whose team spearheaded the project, said the donation was more than a charitable gesture.
“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. Fidelity Bank remains committed to initiatives that improve lives, promote education, and strengthen communities across Nigeria,” he said.
Representing Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Ms. Caroline Dafur, commended Fidelity Bank and the Plateau State Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Office for what she described as a timely intervention.
She said the distribution of school bags and learning materials was not merely an act of charity but a strategic investment in the future of Plateau children, while reaffirming the state government’s commitment to prioritizing education, healthcare, social protection, and child welfare.
Project Coordinator of the Plateau State SDGs Office, Mrs. Nanbam Danjuma-Lot, praised the partnership, saying it demonstrates the power of collaboration in addressing societal challenges.
She expressed hope that more corporate organisations would emulate Fidelity Bank by investing in projects that positively impact their host communities.
Also speaking, Executive Chairman of the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Sunday Amuna, described the initiative as a foundation for the future success of 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,” he said.
The donation also included physically challenged children, underscoring Fidelity Bank’s commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities for every child.
Through the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme, the bank continues to champion education, community empowerment, and sustainable development, positively impacting lives across Nigeria.
Photo Caption:
L-R: Mrs. Nanbam Danjuma-Lot, Project Coordinator, Plateau State Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); Mr. Shunom Leo, Branch Leader, Fidelity Bank University of Jos Branch; Ms. Caroline Dafur, Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development; Hon. Sunday Amuna, Executive Chairman, Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB); Mr. Saje Joseph, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Plateau State Ministry of Education; and Mrs. Victoria Abuka, Team Lead, Corporate Social Responsibility, Fidelity Bank Plc, during the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP) Back-to-School outreach in Plateau State.