By Chioma Onuegbu, Uyo

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has applauded Fidelity Bank Plc for its commitment to rural development through impactful community projects in the state.

Governor Eno gave the commendation over the weekend during the commissioning and handover of a solar-powered water borehole installed by Fidelity Bank for Eyosung community in Udung Uko Local Government Area.

Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong, the governor expressed gratitude to Fidelity Bank for supporting his administration’s rural development agenda.

“This initiative brings development to rural communities, which is one of the focal points of my administration. I thank Fidelity Bank for this remarkable gesture,” Eno said.

He urged the community to safeguard the project against vandalism to ensure it attracts more development initiatives. “It’s one thing to bring a project to a community, and it’s another for the community to protect it,” he added.

The governor also tasked the local government chairman to replicate such development in other villages, emphasizing the importance of clean water access for all.

In his remarks, the Executive Director and Chief Risk Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Kevin Ugwuoke, noted that the project would directly benefit 2,500 students of the Community Secondary School, Udung Uko, and over 1,000 households in the area.

Represented by the Cross River and Akwa Ibom Regional Bank Head, Kufretido Etim, Ugwuoke explained that the initiative, spearheaded by the Risk Management Directorate of the bank, was part of the Fidelity Helping Hands (FHH) program.

“With this solar-powered water borehole, the community will gain access to clean, potable water, improving hygiene, reducing waterborne diseases, and curbing school lateness among students,” he said.

Ugwuoke added that the project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing access to safe water, utilizing renewable energy, and promoting community health.

“This initiative represents hope, progress, and a brighter future for the Eyosung community. It highlights the dedication and generosity of the bank’s staff, who voluntarily contributed to fund the project,” he noted.

The FHH program, according to Ugwuoke, has also executed several other projects, including school renovations, donations to orphanages, and the construction of classrooms and sports facilities, showcasing Fidelity Bank’s commitment to fostering prosperous communities.

Udung Uko Local Government Council Chairman, Elder Godwin Okponung, praised the bank for its impactful gesture. “On behalf of the good people of Udung Uko, I thank Fidelity Bank for this rare show of love and commitment to our community,” he said.