Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, OON, has emerged as a trailblazer in the financial sector, currently serving as the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc. As the first female MD/CEO in the bank’s history, she has steered the institution towards remarkable growth and innovation.
Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe, an alumna of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Kings College, London, brings over 32 years of banking experience, having worked with prominent institutions like Citizens International Bank, Zenith Bank, and Standard Chartered Bank. Her extensive executive training includes programs at Harvard Business School, The Wharton School University of Pennsylvania, INSEAD School of Business, among others.
Under her leadership, Fidelity Bank has achieved significant milestones, witnessing a substantial increase in Profit Before Tax (PBT) from N25.22bn in FY 2021 to N122bn in FY 2023. Driven by innovation, she has pioneered transformative products such as PayGate Plus, an online platform facilitating seamless business transactions.
Recognizing the pivotal role of small businesses, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe established the Fidelity International Trade & Creative Connect (FITCC) to provide a global platform for exporters, regulators, and subject matter experts. The success of FITCC has garnered attention globally, with pipeline deals reaching over $250m.
Passionate about corporate social responsibility, she launched The Fidelity Food Bank, a nationwide initiative combating poverty and hunger by providing free food bags monthly. Her commitment to community impact aligns with her vision of responsible and ethical corporate leadership.
Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s outstanding performance has earned her numerous accolades, including the national award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2023. She has been recognized as the Best Banking CEO Nigeria 2023 and received the Banker of the Year 2022 award.
Beyond her role at Fidelity Bank, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe contributes to various committees and organizations, serving as the Chairperson of the Financial Literacy and Public Enlightenment Sub-Committee of the CBN Bankers Committee, among other distinguished roles.
Her versatility, industry knowledge, and visionary leadership continue to shape Fidelity Bank’s trajectory and inspire a new generation of banking professionals. Married to Dr. Ken Onyeali Ikpe, she embodies resilience, innovation, and excellence in the financial sector.