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Boss Of The Week

Chinedu Ikwudinma: Quintessential Banker Worthy of Emulation

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By Eric Elezuo

The financial world cannot be discussed without the mention of whiz kids of the industry, chiefly among them the Chief Executive Officer of the newest bank in town, NOVA Merchant Bank, Mr. Chinedu Ikwudinma.

The ebullient economic guru is a typical example of a child who is dining with kings for the lofty reason of having washed his hands very clean.

Born during the thick of the Nigeria/Biafra Civil War in 1967, Chinedu spent the first 30 months of his life in the theatre of war, absorbing the gun shots and pains of struggle for survival with letting it affect his greater vision of becoming one of the greatest bankers of his generation.

The irrepressible banker though the Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of the newly innovated Nova Merchant Bank Limited, crossed hurdles and paid his dues in the financial world before the exalted position he occupies today.

Consequently, prior to this role, he was the Executive Director and Country Risk Manager for Citibank Nigeria Limited. It is on record that Mr. Ikwudinma spent over 25 years building a career at Citibank, and during this time, he was the Country Head of Commercial Banking for Citibank Nigeria from 2005 to 2006, and proceeded to become the Corporate and Investment Bank Head at Citibank Zambia between January 2007 and April 2009. He concluded his meritorious service with Citibank as its Ugandan branch Managing Director, a position he held between May 2009 and April 2015.

Ikwudinma also held various executive positions covering Corporate and Investment Banking, Risk Management, Commercial Banking and Transaction Banking.

His vast knowledge in activities relating to finance and economy has set Mr. Ikwudinma apart among peers in addition to possessing a strong track record and expertise in large ticket transactions across vast sectors of the economy, covering Oil & Gas, Manufacturing, Trading, Consumer Goods, Telecommunications and Building Materials/Construction.

It is noteworthy that the financial wizard did not commence life with finance at the back of his mind as he graduated as a Civil Engineer from the University of Nsukka. It was after his B Eng. honours that Ikwudinma went ahead to acquire a Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) and capped it up with M.Sc. degree in Structural Engineering from the University of Lagos. Being passionate for calculation and figures, Mr. Ikwudinma chanelled his professional might towards finance and economy, and today, he is reputed as the one of the innovative bankers of the time. Otherwise he is certified engineer professionally.

In addition to his lofty achievements, Mr. Ikwudinma was the Chairman of the Uganda Bankers’ Association from May 2014 to March 2015, during which period he significantly improved the perception and reputation of the banking industry while at the same time developing strong engagement with all key stakeholders. His efforts earned him the Bank of Uganda Governor’s Award of Appreciation for Dedicated Service to Uganda’s Banking Industry in 2015. He also served as the Director of American Chamber of Commerce in Uganda from 2009 to 2013.

An ardent reader and writer, Ikwudinma has once started that he loves books I because they are excellent sources of wisdom and knowledge.

In his words: “Books have been the most durable and effective means of transferring knowledge from one generation to the next, at least until the advent of the internet and the electronic age. Both fiction and nonfiction works are sources of inspiration for me. I was privileged to have parents who love knowledge and when I was young they inspired in me the desire to learn by telling me stories.”

Among the books he read and loved are As A Man Thinketh by James Allen, which he stated ‘encourages me to believe in myself’, focus on his work in order to achieve success, learn to deal with failure, and realize that success comes from making the effort to be the best one can be.

Ikwudinma’s other source of inspiration is another book with the title The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene. He had described the book as the most lucid books he ever read on the subject of power – relations and influence.

Hear him: “It’s an analysis of how one should conduct himself/herself in different scenarios and environments. The style is more expository than prescriptive.”

Others include Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, which was set in the eastern region of Nigeria where he comes from; The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason, which teaches financial affairs, including how to save and invest, through a very simple and charming story. It also gives guidance on the principles of effective money management.

A very religious person, Ikwudinma’s spiritual anchor remains The Bible. “I find it to be an extremely powerful book and a source of strength and succour. It has survived for over 2,000 years and it is still relevant and revered. One needs to build their spiritual strength to have a balanced life,” he said

With the berthing of the fifth merchant bank in Nigeria’s banking industry, NOVA Merchant Bank Limited, the emergence of Ikwudinma as the man at the helm of affairs did not come as a surprise. In the brief period the bank has existed, he has revolutionalised merchant banking with fresh thinking, ideas and unique offer channeled specifically into wholesale banking, investment banking and asset management.

At the launch of the bank, Ikwudinma, who explained the strategic direction of the financial institution, said offering of trade services, project financing, cash management, corporate solutions and advisory services will be focused on among other juicy packages which are already manifesting.

Still searching for more virgin business environments to conquer, he said this about his person and aspirations:

“I want to be a distinctive first rate professional, a respected financial services expert, a motivator, positive change agent, a leader and a recognized visionary in all fields of endeavour I choose to apply myself to, including but not exclusive to banking and financial services. To apply my extensive knowledge of banking and financial affairs, my abilities/knowledge in other spheres of human endeavour, and my own resources, material and otherwise, in the service of my community and any communities I may be privileged to associate with, measured by my positive impact on people and in the betterment of human society.”

A gentleman and family man to the core, Ikwudinma is happily married with children.

Sir, for your innovative tendencies and superior achievements in every area you have been privileged to participate, you are our Boss of the Week.

Congratulations sir!

 

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Boss Of The Week

Osun Speaker, Hon Adewale Egbedun, Celebrates Stylish 40

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By Eric Elezuo and Ruth Akpan

As a testament to the enduring impact and love the inimitable Speaker of the Osun House, Rt. Hon Adewale Olumide Egbedun, has garnered from those around him, and beyond, a heartfelt thanksgiving service and sumptuous reception were organised to celebrate his entry into the ruby age.

Consequently, the beautiful city of Osogbo became abuzz as residents and well-wishers across the country gathered to celebrate the charismatic Speaker as he clocked 40 – a milestone birthday celebrating a legacy of dedication and service.

With the background belief that his existence and achievements in life are traceable to one source, Egbedun spared no expence to return all the glory to God Almighty. He therefore, kickstarted the celebrations with a thanksgiving service.

Attended by prominent figures from Nigeria’s political and economic spheres, the day’s festivities commenced with the arrival of the charismatic celebrant at African Church, Asi, Osun State, where the thanksgiving service was held in his honour.

As the congregation rose to welcome him, the celebrant took to the podium to deliver the Read Only Lesson, showcasing his spiritual eloquence. Before sharing his reflections, he regaled the audience with his favorite hymn, filling the sanctuary with soulful harmony.

In a heartfelt and inspiring sermon, Archbishop Michael Adeyemi, a revered spiritual leader, highlighted the Speaker’s virtues, accomplishments and unwavering commitment to public service- words that visibly moved the congregation, underscoring the significance of gratitude and celebration.

Following the thanksgiving service, guests made their way to the Oasis Event Centre, Oroki Extensive, Osogbo, where a lavish reception awaited. The event kicked off with an opening prayer, setting the tone for a joyous celebration.

In commemoration of the special occasion, the celebrant received a special birthday message from the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke. The message signed by Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the Osun State Governor read:

“It’s hearty for me to celebrate an exceptional legislator, Rt. Hon. Olumide Adewale Egbedun, as he turns 40 years old today. While many may see the numbers, I see the lives that the numbers counted for, the contributions to our dear state that made up the numbers, and the inspiration that his life serves to many.

“From the time that the baton of leadership has been passed on to him, Rt. Hon. Egbedun has been remarkable, coordinating the House of Assembly in such a way that it aligns with our administration’s efforts to transform lives and move Osun state forward. I’m particularly impressed by the Speaker’s ability to foster cooperation and unite interests for the common good of impacting lives.

“As he turns 40 today, I want to take a moment to compliment him for his sincerity of purpose and the unwavering dedication to shaping the state’s future. It is my prayer that God grants him many more happy and rewarding years just as it is my hope that he will continue to make meaningful contributions, not just for Osun state, but Nigeria as a whole.”

Governor Adeleke recognises the Speaker’s down-to-earth nature and a remarkable sense of purpose, expressing his deep admiration for the celebrant’s ability to bring diverse perspectives together to drive the objective of moving Osun state forward.

The Governor salutes Speaker Egbedun for the remarkable leadership he has shown in the House of Assembly, fostering cooperation through dialogue, acknowledging the pivotal role that the 8th Assembly under the Speaker’s guidance has played in the monumental achievements recorded by this administration.

Also celebrating the young Speaker, the Osun Amotekun Corps, in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Idowu Abass, the Board Chairman, AIG Wale Abbas (Rtd), alongside the Corps Commander, Chief Dr. Hon. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele, praised Egbedun for his outstanding leadership, unwavering commitment to democratic values, and his continued support for the advancement of security and good governance in Osun State.

Describing the Speaker as a man of the people and a progressive legislator, the Amotekun Corps leadership commended Egbedun’s instrumental role in the swift and successful passage of the amendment to the Osun Amotekun Corps Constitution. The amendment has significantly strengthened the legal and operational framework of the Corps, thereby enabling it to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities in safeguarding lives and properties across the state.

“The Osun Amotekun Corps acknowledges with deep appreciation the leadership qualities of Rt. Hon. Egbedun, particularly his understanding of the importance of local security initiatives and his resolve to support institutions working towards the protection of our communities,” the statement read.

“As Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, his legislative insight and people-oriented approach continue to inspire a new generation of leaders across Osun State. His dedication to upholding laws that foster security, peace, and development reflects his deep commitment to the growth and welfare of our dear state.”

The Corps leadership further wished Speaker Egbedun good health, more wisdom, and greater accomplishments in the years ahead as he continues to serve the people of Osun State with passion and distinction.

Happy 40th Birthday, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun!

Everyone, including Yeyeluwa Modupeola Adeleke-Sanni, who was given an opportunity to share their thoughts about the Speaker spoke glowingly, praising his role in good leadership, dedication and steadfast commitment to public service.

The highlight of the evening was the cake-cutting ceremony supervised by the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke.

Anchored by Olalekan Fabilola (Masoyinbo), the evening was filled with laughter, music and merriment as guests were treated to a sumptuous spread of delectable cuisines and refreshing drinks.

The atmosphere was electric as the duo of renowned artists Dr. Yinka Ayefele and SB Live took to the stage to deliver captivating performances with their infectious rhythms and melodies.

In response, Hon Adewale Egbedun expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his family, friends, colleagues and well-wishers for making his 40th birthday a memorable occasion.

Hon Egbedun was born on June 29, 1985, becoming the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly at the age of 38 in June 2023.

He had his tertiary education at the University of East London, after a successful stint of elementary and secondary education in Nigeria. He is a holder of Business Information Systems degree.

A first term member of the House, representing Odo-Otin State Constituency, Egbedun’s nomination to the speakership position speaks volumes of his charisma, indepth strength and zeal to deliver.

He had stated in his acceptance speech that the 8th assembly would prioritize workers welfare and citizens lives, improve infrastructure…

A thoroughbred individual, Hon Egbedun deserves all his flowers as he waddle through the ruby ages.

Congratulations sir!

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Boss Of The Week

Woman of Steel: Kemi Koyejo Redefines Auto Business in Nigeria

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By Eric Elezuo

“More than just selling cars, we are offering a complete ownership experience; Competitive pricing and flexible financing solutions; Comprehensive after-sales care; Certified pre-owned options; Expert maintenance and repairs; Customization and accessories tailored to your taste.

“But we are not stopping there. At the heart of New Era is a commitment to sustainability. We believe the future of mobility must be environmentally responsible. That’s why our lineup features a growing range of hybrid and electric vehicles, reducing emissions and moving us toward a greener tomorrow.

“We are also passionate about creating an inclusive and empowering environment. Today, I proudly celebrate our Auto Amazons — bold, brilliant women who are thriving in a space long dominated by men. You are trailblazers, and you deserve every accolade. At New Era, diversity and equity are not just values — they are guiding principles.

“Our team undergoes continuous training to deliver world-class service to every customer, regardless of gender, background, or status. Because here, every client matters, and every voice is heard.

“I would also like to express my deep gratitude to: Our principal, Jetour Mobility Services Nigeria Limited, for their vision and trust. My partner, Mr. Raf Abanum, for his steadfast support. And most importantly, our incredible staff, the backbone of this dream turned reality.

“To our future customers: We are here for you — to deliver not just vehicles, but memorable experiences, built on trust, quality, and excellence.

As we step boldly into this new chapter, I invite you all to join us — to drive with us into a future of innovation, sustainability, and shared success.”

Those were the power-packed words of the Chief Executive Officer as JETOUR begins a journey of Refining auto marketing in Nigeria.

With each impressive step, auto expert and entrepreneur, Mrs Oluwakemi Koyejo, known as Kemi by all and sundry, has continued to prove that ‘impossible’ is just another word not worthy of a second consideration. She has consistently broken barriers after barriers, placing herself top on the automobile ecosystem.

With a combination of stringent dedication, focus and commitment to her job description, she has successfully brought JETOUR cars to Nigeria under her New Era Automobile Services Limited.

This feat is in response of Nigeria’s quest for technologically advanced, affordable, and durable vehicles.

The special unveiling, performed under the supervision of the Chairman of Elizade Motors, owners of the Toyota franchise in Nigeria, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, who urged motor lovers to take advantage of the ruggedness and state-of-the-art facilities of the automotive, held at the company’s showroom at Lekki, Lagos, marking the debut of Nigeria’s first exclusive Jetour showroom in Lekki, Lagos State.

Speaking at the event that had all the trappingsof colourful, with close friends and family members including colleagues and stakeholders in the motoring sector, in attendance, the chairman of the event, who was privileged to perform the unveiling, Choef Ade-Ojo commended the dexterity, candour and never-say-never attitude of Koyejo and her team, stressing that the JETOUR brand is topnotch, and that its models aligns perfectly with the rugged terrain and challenging climatic conditions of the Nigerian roads and environments

He noted that “Jetour is not just a stylish automobile; it’s a durable companion built to meet Nigeria’s peculiar demands. It is encouraging to see an initiative that prioritises innovation, reliability, and a future-forward approach.”

In her welcome address, Mrs Koyejo, who sits atop the budding automotive company as the Managing Director, described the launch as more than just a business milestone, saying it is a commencement of a new vista in not only mobility in state-of-the-art car, but a wholesome customer satisfaction experience within Nigeria and other countries that would be connected.

“Today marks more than the opening of a showroom; it is the beginning of a bold journey to redefine automotive excellence in Nigeria.

“We are proud to unveil the first exclusive JETOUR dealership in the country, bringing world-class technology, luxury SUVs, rugged off-roaders, and innovative electric vehicles closer to the Nigerian market,” she said.

She emphasized that the facility would not only provide real-time access to Jetour vehicles but also serve as a hub for after-sales services, competitive pricing, flexible financing, and certified pre-owned options.

Koyejo also highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, revealing that New Era’s product portfolio includes an expanding line of hybrid and electric vehicles aimed at reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a greener environment.

She extended appreciation to Jetour Mobility Services Nigeria Limited for its support, and to her business partner, Mr. Raf Abanum, for his unwavering encouragement.

A major highlight of the unveiling was a tour of the new showroom, showcasing JETOUR’S ’s versatile range of vehicles, from luxury designs to adventure-ready models.

The facility is expected to enhance the brand’s visibility and responsiveness to consumer needs in Nigeria’s highly competitive auto market.

Kemi Koyejo, a quintessential automotive has just taken a bold step towards redefining the Nigerian automotive landscape, and stakeholders, industry watchers as well as the general public, have said the sky is the limit in this human oriented endeavour.

Photos: Ken Ehimen

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Boss Of The Week

Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe: Striding Gingerly to Greater Achievements

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By Eric Elezuo

The last couple of days had been designed by detractors to be a trying period for Fidelity Bank, and its indefatigable Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, but hard work cannot be shortchanged as it ended up becoming a week of triumph for the a-list top lender commercial bank, and its top grade boss.

Onyeali-Ikpe has proved herself so remarkable in the triumphant journey of the Fidelity Bank group that she was rewarded with an extension of her employment contract in 2024. No doubt, Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe, reputed as a solid amazon in the finance sector, and a go-getter, has seen and conquered the banking arena, and is honoured among veterans as a solid foundation in Nigeria’s money business.

It would be recalled that recently, she led the bank to 238% oversubscription of the bank shares; a feat that has been described as unprecedented.

“We are delighted to announce the successful completion of the first phase of our capital raising initiatives through a Public Offer and Rights Issue. The positive result recorded in our Combined Offer is a testament to the strength of the Fidelity Bank franchise in the capital market. It is both gratifying and humbling to note this level of investor confidence in our Bank. We extend sincere gratitude to our investors for their continued confidence in the Bank, as evidenced by the 237.92% and 137.73% oversubscription of our Public Offer and Rights Issue respectively. As we go into the next phase of our capital raising drive, we reaffirm our commitment to providing cutting-edge financial solutions to our customers and sustainable returns to our stakeholders,” Onyeali-Ikpe noted.

These triumps have triggered negative reactions from a cross section of most uninformed players in the industry to begin a campaign of calumny. During the week, an online news platform claimed that Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe violated one of the listing rules of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited with the acquisition of fresh 18 million equities of the company. This is while the financial amazon was striking a master stroke to lift Fidelity Bank to maximum level of achievement.

Responding, through a notice to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), which literally exonerated the bank, the lender described the report as “patently false, misleading and malicious,” clarifying that Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe did not take “personal advantage of material price sensitive information to engage in insider trading” as being alleged.

In a show of transparency and accountability, Onyeali-Ikpe’s Fidelity requested an independent review of the transaction by the NGX. From its findings, the stock exchange cleared the company and Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe of any wrongdoing.

In a letter dated May 22, 2025, the regulator dismissed allegations of insider trading and the misuse of bank funds for the transaction, saying, “Following the filing of the bank’s 2025 Q1 UFS on April 30, 2025, the directors and other insiders of the bank became eligible to trade on the securities of the bank after 24 hours.

“Therefore, the share purchase transaction referenced by Sahara Reporters which occurred on May 19, 2025, was transacted during an open trading window and NGX RegCo is not aware of any other price sensitive information that the Bank is required to disclose which should hinder trades on the securities of the bank by insiders.”

Additionally, the Divisional Head of Brand and Communications for Fidelity Bank, Mr Meksley Nwagboh, in a statement, also disclosed that, “As a publicly quoted company regulated by the NGX and subject to the Listing Rules of the NGX and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations, we unequivocally confirm that neither the Bank nor its MD/CEO has ever engaged in insider trading.”

He also stressed that Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe personally funded the share purchase and did not utilize bank funds or take a loan for the share purchase, reaffirming that the deal was conducted in strict adherence to the Listing Rules and insider trading regulations governing publicly traded companies.

While the naysayers were plotting her downfall, Onyeali-Ikpe was busy elevating Fidelity Bank, and giving investors reason to sleep with both eyes closed.

Born on July 28, 1964, Nneka, as beloved and close family members, friends and colleagues fondly call her, is a force to reckon with, and has in a space of 32 years and counting, of career banking, brought to bear all the stops that make for great banking and financial experience, climbing to the topmost echelon of investment banking and related areas.

Fidelity Bank Plc knows this, and announced its decision after a thorough Board of Directors’ meeting to extend the employment contract of the ebullient achiever from 2024 to 2026. It won’t come as a shock if by 2026 when the tenure expires, the board decides to further extend the tenure.

The Board had noted, and without equivocation, that it is confident that the Bank’s performance will continue its upward trajectory under Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe’s leadership, and looks forward to working closely with her and the Executive Management Team on execution of various strategic initiatives including international expansion. They were not wrong.

The banking guru, who was born in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria, also lived in Owerri, Imo State, where she studied at the Federal Government Girls’ College. After her successful stint at FGC, she was admitted into the premier school, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where she obtained a degree in Law before attending the prestigious King’s College, London, for a Masters Degree also in Law.

Before attaining the enviable GMD with Fidelity Bank, Onyeali-Ikpe had out of dint of hardwork, paid her dues from lesser positions.

She began her career in 1990, when she was employed as a legal officer for the now-defunct African Continental Bank. She later worked as a treasury officer for the First African Trust Bank, and thereafter joined Zenith Bank, and subsequently the Standard Chartered Bank. Her experience in the course of her sojourn are combined to make her a toast of the banking industry today.

Having cut her teeth, and garnered a lot of experience and goodwill, she was in 2011, absorbed by Enterprise Bank as an Executive director of the bank’s operations in Lagos and other locations in the South-Western region in Nigeria. She wasted no time in turning around the fortunes of the bank.

In January, 2015, Onyeali-Ikpe joined Fidelity Bank as an Executive Director, and rose through the ranks until she was announced the Managing Director in December, 2020. Following her appointment, Nneka became the first female MD/CEO in the history of the bank.

Presently, Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) is the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, a foremost financial institution with a client base of over about nine million customers.

Apart from her Law degrees, from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka and Kings College, Onyeali-Ikpe has also attended executive training programs at Harvard Business School, The Wharton School University of Pennsylvania, INSEAD School of Business, Chicago Booth School of Business, London Business School and IMD amongst others.

It is worthy of note that she recently completed a Diploma programme in Organizational Leadership at Said Business School, Oxford University, UK and received an honorary doctorate degree in Business Administration at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). She is also the recipient of the national award of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) which was awarded to her by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2023.

With close to 34 years of rewarding banking experience through Enterprise Bank, Citizens International Bank, Zenith Bank and Standard Chartered Bank among others, the woman is surely a force to reckon with.

A woman of many parts, Onyeali-Ikpe has also been involved in the structuring of complex transactions in Oil and Gas, Manufacturing, Aviation, Real Estate and Export among many others.

She is, without an iota of doubt, widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading female CEOs with a reputation for authentic leadership and proven people skills in identifying talents, opportunities and executing complex business deals. She has extensive business development experience with proficiency in retail, corporate and commercial banking and treasury management among others.

LANDMARK ACHIEVEMENTS IN FIDELITY BANK

Under Nneka’s watch, the Bank grew its PBT from N25.22bn in FY 2021 to N122bn in FY 2023. Nneka has now set her horizon on leveraging the opportunities in select high growth international markets where the Bank has a competitive advantage. She most recently guided the bank to obtain the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria to expand its operations to the United Kingdom with the acquisition of the former Union Bank UK, now Fidelity Bank UK Limited.

Passionate about innovation and embracing technology, Nneka has pioneered several innovative and pacesetting products such as the PayGate Plus, an online platform that enables businesses make and receive payments.

Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe has also radically repositioned the bank as the go-to financial institution for Small and Medium Enterprises. Understanding the crucial role of small businesses in the sustenance of economic growth and development, she led the bank to create the Fidelity International Trade & Creative Connect (FITCC) which is aimed at providing a global platform for exporters, regulators, subject matter experts and foreign markets to connect.

The FITCC 2022 edition was attended by representatives of both the UK & the Nigerian Governments, Nigerian exporters, investors, regulators from the United Kingdom and Nigeria, the business community and other practitioners. The pipeline deals from the event was in excess of $200m. Over 2,000 people registered to attend the event and daily foot-fall was about 1,000.

The second edition of FITCC, which was hosted in Houston, Texas, United States of America in October 2023, was even bigger with projected pipeline deals of over $250m and more than 160 businesses in participation. Tagged, FITCC Houston, the success of the event is signposted by the designation of 25 October 2023 as the “Fidelity International Trade and Creative Connect Day” by Mr. Sylvester Turner, Mayor of Houston.

HER CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY EFFORTS

In her bid to give back to the communities the Bank serves and as part of her efforts to combat the twin issues of poverty and hunger, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe recently launched a National Corporate Social Responsibility initiative tagged The Fidelity Food Bank which provides free food bags to people across Nigeria monthly.

In recognition of her leadership and outstanding performance, she received commendation from AMCON as a member of the Management Team that restructured and turned around the fortunes of the erstwhile Enterprise Bank. She also received several board commendations from the Managing Directors of Standard Chartered Bank and Citizens International Bank for outstanding performance at various times.

FIDELITY AWARDS UNDER ONYEALI-IKPE’S WATCH

With Onyeali-Ikpe as the Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank has been the recipient of several awards within and outside Nigeria some of which are:

1. Best Commercial Banking Brand in Nigeria by the Global Brands Magazine Awards

2. Best Private Bank in Nigeria by The Financial Times in association with The Banker Magazine

3. Trade Ambassador Award by the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC)

4. Global Finance’s World’s Best Private Banks 2023 awards for Best Private Bank in Nigeria

5. The Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023 in the 2023 Global Banking & Finance Awards

6. Export Finance Bank of the Year at the BusinessDay and Other Financial Institutions’ (BAFI) Awards 2023.

7. The “Fastest Growing Bank” and “MSME & Entrepreneurship Financing Bank of the Year” at the 2021 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

The Awards are still counting.

PERSONAL RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDS

On her own part, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe has been recognized by numerous local and international bodies for her sterling achievements. These include:

1. The national award of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2023.

2. The Banker of the Year 2022 at the 14th Leadership Annual Conference and Awards and

3. The Best Banking CEO Nigeria 2023 in the 2023 Global Banking & Finance Awards.

4. 2023 Top 25 CEOs in Nigeria at the BusinessDay Awards

5. The Banker of the Year 2022 at the Champion Newspapers’ Awards of the Year 2022.

Considering her versatility, industry knowledge and vast network, she also serves on the following Committees and organizations:

1. Chairperson, Financial Literacy and Public Enlightenment Sub-Committee of the CBN Bankers Committee.
2. Chairperson, Funds and Grants Committee of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria
3. Member, Audit Committee of FMDQ Group PLC
4. Member of the Board, Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities (SANEF)
5. Member of the Board, Unified Payment Services Limited

PERSONAL LIFE

Onyeali-Ikpe is married to Dr. Ken Onyeali Ikpe, PhD, a visionary leader with strong business acumen and respected for his demonstrated knowledge in Marketing, Branding and Consumer Consulting and Business acceleration.

She is a celebrated wife and mother, who has combined home duties with professional endeavours without allowing any to suffer.

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