By Abubakar Yunusa
FidBank UK Limited, a subsidiary of Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced plans to help Nigerians and Nigerian-owned businesses to acquire properties in the United Kingdom.
The company said it will provide tailored financial solutions for high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) seeking to invest in the UK real estate market through its Buy-to-Let product.
According to a statement by FidBank, the plan was announced at the product showcase hosted by Jonny Baxter, the British deputy high commissioner, at his Residence in Lagos on May 26.
Speaking at the event, Johnson Enemadu, the managing director (MD) and chief executive officer (CEO) of FidBank, said the company will support businesses with capital.
“This event is about showcasing to the market and our customers that there is something exciting in the market and we are able to take them along in this journey, supporting their businesses by bringing capital both in the financial institutions and corporate space and also for our high networth inidividuals. It is a total experience,” he said.
“Today’s event is also taking place against the backdrop of strengthened bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, highlighted by the recent state visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the UK.
“This renewed engagement between both countries continues to unlock new pathways for trade, investment, and financial collaboration; and FidBank UK is pleased to play a leading role in driving this.”
Also speaking at the showcase, Baxter commended FidBank for offering financial service that expand investment opportunities in the UK and also strengthen the financial systems supporting growing commercial ties.
“The United Kingdom remains firmly committed to deepening its economic partnership with Nigeria, with a clear focus on driving inclusive, sustainable investment, trade and economic growth,” the deputy high commissioner said.
“London’s position as a leading global financial centre is central to this, supported by robust financial infrastructure that enables efficient trade flows and seamless cross-border transactions between our markets.
“It is therefore encouraging to see institutions such as FidBank UK advancing financial service offerings that not only expand investment opportunities in the UK, but also strengthen the financial systems supporting growing commercial ties. We welcome and support efforts that continue to enhance liquidity, facilitate trade, and drive sustainable UK-Nigeria economic connections.”
On his part, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos state, who was represented by Abayomi Oluyomi, commissioner for finance, said FidBank’s initiative aligned with his administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S. agenda.
The T.H.E.M.E.S. agenda is a six-pillar strategic development blueprint of the Lagos state government under Sanwo-Olu, created to improve traffic management and transportation, health and environment, education and technology, entertainment and tourism, security and governance, as well as making Lagos a 21st century economy.
Sanwo-Olu said FidBank offers a private banking relationship grounded in regulatory rigour and institutional trust, adding that the financial solutions are not just “catalogue of products, it is a comprehensive financial architecture built for people who live, work and invest across the Nigerian-UK corridor”.
The event, which was attended by a select audience comprising captains of industry and corporate leaders, featured art exhibitions by two Nigerian visual art talents, Femi Morakinyo and Oswald Chukwunyeremugo.
