The chief executive of Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, has joined others to emphasise the critical importance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sector to the economy of any nation.
Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) says SMEs make up 96 per cent of all businesses in the country, employing over 80 per cent of the workforce, and contributing nearly 50 per cent to the gross domestic product (GDP).
But, despite their critical role in the economy, many still rely on manual processes that hinder efficiency and limit access to finance.
Speaking at Fidelity SME Empowerment Program 2025, held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the bank’s dedicated SME Hub in Gbagada, Lagos, Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe described SMEs as the architects of innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth.
However, she charged small business owners to adopt digital tools to enhance their operations and drive sustainable growth.
“At Fidelity Bank, we believe SMEs are not just the backbone of our economy—they are the architects of innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth. Through the Fidelity SME Empowerment Program (FSEP), we are providing 100 entrepreneurs with the tools, training, and support they need to thrive in today’s digital economy,” the Fidelity Bank chief, represented by the Executive Director and Chief Operations and Information Officer, Mr Stanley Amuchie, said.
Also, the chief executive of Manmark, a strategic partner of Fidelity Bank, Mrs Adaonah Kene-Uyawune, said at the event that, “This digital transformation initiative is a game changer. It replaces manual bookkeeping with a unified system that simplifies accounting, inventory, HR, and profitability tracking. These tools are not handouts—they are instruments for long-term business success.”
It was gathered that the three-day programme drew a large turnout of entrepreneurs and stakeholders. It marked the official launch of Fidelity Bank’s initiative to equip 100 growth-ready SMEs with ERPRev-enabled POS systems and business support tools—at no cost to the beneficiaries.
Through the initiative, benefiting businesses will receive: a fully-installed POS desktop system, ERPRev business software, receipt printer and barcode scanner, inventory data input support, financial and bookkeeping training, branding and onboarding support, six months of post-installation monitoring; and a free Fidelity POS with instant settlement.
The event featured high-impact trainings, masterclasses, and networking opportunities designed to spark innovation, build partnerships, and unlock new markets.