Fidelity Bank Empowers Young Girls Through Debate on Digital Literacy

Fidelity Bank Empowers Young Girls Through Debate on Digital Literacy

In celebration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young women through education and leadership by organizing a debate competition for female secondary school students in Lagos.

The event, tagged “She Leads Debate Competition,” was held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Fidelity SME Hub in Gbagada. It featured students from six secondary schools who debated the topic: “In today’s world, is digital literacy more essential for girls than traditional life skills?”

Welcoming participants, the Divisional Head of Product Development at Fidelity Bank, Mr. Osita Ede, represented by the Head of Women Banking, Mrs. Harriba Harry-Pepple, underscored the importance of equipping girls with the right knowledge and confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

“Each year, this day reminds us of the limitless potential within every girl — potential that must be nurtured, celebrated, and given a platform to shine,” Ede said. “Through HerFidelity, our Women Banking Initiative, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower girls and women to dream boldly, learn confidently, and lead fearlessly.”

He further noted that the competition was designed not just as a debate but as a platform for young girls to challenge stereotypes and express their intellectual capabilities. “When a girl is educated and supported with opportunities for self-expression, she becomes a catalyst for positive change in her community and beyond,” he added.

After a lively contest, Chizaram Unachukwu of Cedec International School clinched the top prize of ₦500,000, while Nwatu Chidera of Brookstones and Best Brains International School took second place with ₦300,000. Chizaram Ekueme of Awesome College emerged as the second runner-up, receiving ₦150,000.

The International Day of the Girl Child, observed globally on October 11, celebrates the rights of girls and calls for greater investment in their education, health, and empowerment.

Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution with over 9.1 million customers across Nigeria and the United Kingdom, has continued to receive accolades for innovation and service excellence, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay and the Euromoney Award for Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria.