Fidelity Bank Celebrates International Day of the Girl Child with Debate Competition
Fidelity Bank Plc marked the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child with an engaging debate competition aimed at empowering young female students. The event took place at the Fidelity SME Hub in Gbagada, Lagos, on Thursday, October 16, 2025, bringing together students from six secondary schools to discuss the topic: “In today’s world, is digital literacy more essential for girls than traditional life skills?”
The event was officially opened by Osita Ede, Divisional Head of Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, represented by Harriba Harry-Pepple, Head of Women Banking. Ede highlighted the critical importance of equipping girls with relevant skills to succeed as adults.
“Every year, this day reminds us of the immense potential within every girl — a potential that must be nurtured, celebrated, and given a platform to flourish. Through our HerFidelity initiative, we are dedicated to creating opportunities that empower girls and women to dream big, learn confidently, and lead fearlessly,” Ede stated.
He emphasized that the debate was more than a contest; it was a platform for young girls to voice their ideas, challenge societal norms, and demonstrate their intellectual capabilities. “When girls are educated and supported with opportunities for self-expression, they become catalysts for positive change in their communities and beyond.”
After a lively debate, awards were presented to the top participants. Chizaram Unachukwu of Cedec International School emerged as the winner, receiving N500,000. First runner-up Nwatu Chidera of Brookstones and Best Brains International School was awarded N300,000, while second runner-up Chizaram Ekueme of Awesome College received N150,000.
The International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11, underscores the unique challenges faced by girls worldwide and advocates for their empowerment and human rights.
Fidelity Bank, a prominent financial institution with over 9.1 million customers across Nigeria and the UK, continues to champion initiatives that support gender empowerment. The bank has received numerous awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award, the Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application Award, and recognition as Nigeria’s Best Bank for SMEs.