Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, MD/CEO Fidelity Bank

 

By Ngozi Onyeakusi— Financial institutions in Nigeria have been urged to contribute their quota in making the Nigerian business climate conducive for foreign direct investments.

Giving the charge at the grand opening of Burger King in Nigeria recently, the MD/CEO, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe said, “It is not enough to only attract FDIs into the Nigerian market, it is also expedient that purpose-driven financial institutions like ours continuously make efforts to support and heighten the prosperity of their businesses, thereby facilitating a conducive trade environment healthy enough to initiate life-long operation strategy in Nigeria. This we believe will greatly impact Nigeria’s economy”.

Officially welcoming the global food brand into Nigeria at its Ajose Adeogun outlet recently, Fidelity Bank reiterated its support for both large-scale businesses and SMEs operating across the country. “Year on year, we have continuously shown our commitment towards businesses and nation-building through strategic partnerships. Today, we are excited to be proud partners of Burger King in Nigeria and even more enthused at the impact our association with this great brand will have on Nigeria’s economy” Nneka Said.

Over the years, the Federal Government of Nigeria has continued to put policies like Ease of Doing Business in place to attract FDIs. The policy has been beneficial to SMEs largely and positively impacted the economy. The leading tier two bank is undoubtedly one of the financial institutions with an unwavering commitment to help the government achieve its goal towards developing Nigerians and society at large.

Also speaking at the event, Robert Lu, General Manager for Burger King Corporation, UK, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) said, “After a long period of planning, we are glad to finally commence operations in Nigeria. We look forward to satisfying the cravings of our Nigerian customers with our mouthwatering products.  We are extremely thankful to all our partners and government who have been involved in the process and making this day a reality”.

Concluding the event, Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria expressed his delight at how the grand opening of Burger King is a strong testament to the fast-growing Nigerian economy. He said, “Today is a dream come true for us and a testament to a continuously growing economy. We welcome you wholeheartedly and pledge to continuously ensure a fair and conducive economic environment for businesses to thrive”. With our population and conducive economic environment, we are sure that within a short period, this outlet will be the most lucrative of all Burger King’s outlet across the world”.