By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Nigeria’s leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced the launch of the second edition of its flagship women empowerment initiative, the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 (HAP 2.0), aimed at equipping women with practical, income-generating skills and structured pathways to sustainable entrepreneurship.
The bank disclosed this during a media chat to herald the rollout of the upgraded programme, which builds on the success of its inaugural edition held in 2023.
Speaking at the event, the Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, Osita Ede, said the new edition has been enhanced to deliver greater impact following feedback from participants and partners in the first phase.
According to him, HAP 2.0 reflects the bank’s commitment to continuous improvement and inclusive economic growth.
“Having evaluated feedback from the first edition, we have returned with stronger partnerships and deeper mentorship programmes to ensure that women acquire not just skills, but sustainable economic opportunities,” Ede said.
He explained that the programme is designed to provide guided, real-world learning experiences, with participants undergoing intensive apprenticeship training under reputable institutions and industry experts. The training will cover selected vocational and technical fields such as hair styling, shoemaking, auto mechatronics, and interior decoration.
Beyond technical skills acquisition, Ede noted that the initiative incorporates business advisory services to help participants transition successfully into entrepreneurship. These include business and financial literacy training, structured mentorship throughout the apprenticeship journey, access to Fidelity Bank’s women-focused and SME financial solutions, and guidance on business formalisation and growth strategies.
He further emphasised that the bank’s broader vision is to position women not only as trainees but as future employers, innovators, and key contributors to economic development within their communities.
“This aligns with our mandate to help individuals grow, businesses thrive, and economies prosper,” he added.
Interested participants have been encouraged to register their interest through the designated online portal.
With over 10 million customers served through digital banking channels, 255 business offices across Nigeria, and its United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited, Fidelity Bank Plc continues to strengthen its reputation as a major player in Nigeria’s financial services sector. The bank has also received several local and international awards in recognition of its digital innovation and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
