L – R: Second runner-up, Chizaram Ekueme of Awesome College; Head, Brand Management, Fidelity Bank Plc, Cynthia Ogbonna; Winner, Chizaram Unachukwu of Cedec International School; Broadcaster and Communications Expert, Wemimo Adewuni; First runner-up, Nwatu Chidera of Brookstones and Best Brains International School; and Head, Women Banking, Fidelity Bank Plc, Harriba Harry-Pepple; at the maiden edition of the Fidelity Bank She Leads debate competition held in commemoration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child in Lagos recently.
In celebration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, Fidelity Bank Plc hosted an empowering debate competition for female secondary school students, reinforcing its commitment to promoting education, confidence, and leadership among young girls.
The event, themed “She Leads Debate Competition,” took place on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Fidelity SME Hub in Gbagada, Lagos, and featured participants from six secondary schools. The students debated the topic: “In today’s world, is digital literacy more essential for girls than traditional life skills?”
Welcoming the participants, Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, represented by Harriba Harry-Pepple, Head of Women Banking, highlighted the importance of empowering girls through education and digital knowledge.
“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 described the debate as more than just a competition — but a platform for young female voices to express their ideas, challenge norms, and showcase intellectual excellence.
“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 spirited contest, Chizaram Unachukwu of Cedec International School emerged as the overall winner, taking home ₦500,000.
Nwatu Chidera of Brookstones and Best Brains International School claimed the first runner-up position with a prize of ₦300,000, while Chizaram Ekueme of Awesome College placed second runner-up, receiving ₦150,000.
The International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated globally on October 11 each year, seeks to spotlight the challenges girls face and to advance their empowerment and human rights.
With over 9.1 million customers and operations spanning 251 business offices across Nigeria and the UK, Fidelity Bank Plc continues to stand out for its innovation, women-focused initiatives, and digital transformation.
The bank has earned numerous recognitions, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award (BAFI), Most Innovative Mobile Banking App (Global Business Outlook), and Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria (Euromoney Awards for Excellence) — solidifying its position as one of the nation’s leading financial institutions driving inclusion and empowerment.
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