Fidelity Bank Plc has donated relief materials to inmates of the Ikoyi Correctional Centre in Lagos as part of efforts to support rehabilitation and improve the welfare of indigent persons.
The donation, carried out under the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), saw the Human Resources Department present household tools and other essential items to the management of the facility.
Under the FHHP, staff members across Fidelity Bank branches nationwide identify pressing needs within their communities and raise funds to address them.
The bank’s management matches the contributions and disburses the funds for selected projects.
Speaking during the presentation, the Chief Human Resources Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Charles Nwachukwu, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to restoring hope and transforming lives.
He said the bank’s CSR philosophy is anchored on empathy and creating opportunities for vulnerable members of society.
“At Fidelity Bank, we believe that every individual deserves a second chance. By supporting inmates today, we are empowering them to return to society as productive and confident individuals,” Nwachukwu said.
In his response, the Deputy Controller of Corrections at the Ikoyi Custodial Centre, Dr. Julius Ogueri, urged Nigerians to shun cybercrime and avoid stigmatising ex-inmates.
Ogueri highlighted the challenges facing correctional facilities, noting that the Ikoyi centre, originally built for 800 inmates, currently houses over 3,000.
He disclosed that 396 inmates have been convicted, while the majority are awaiting trial.
He also emphasised ongoing rehabilitation efforts, revealing that 72 inmates are currently enrolled with the National Open University of Nigeria, while 120 have benefited from WAEC and GCE support programmes.
Fidelity Bank serves over 9.1 million customers through its digital platforms, 255 business offices across Nigeria, and its UK subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.
The bank has received multiple local and international awards for excellence in digital transformation, SME banking, and innovation.
Comment here