By Kingsley I. Ilechukwu, Bureau Chief, South West, Nigeria
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe has described technology not as an abstract concept, but a practical tool for solving real problems.
Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe said Fidelity Bank had embraced technology as a strategic enabler of efficiency and growth.
Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe stated this in her keynote address at the 17th Africa’s Beacon of ICT Merit and Leadership lecture held over the weekend.
Represented by executive director at Fidelity, Stantley Amuchie she said the bank had deployed AI driven systems in key areas of its operations.
“Our fraud detection systems leverage machine learning to identify unusual patterns and prevent losses in real time. Our credit assessment processes have been enhanced through data driven models that improve accuracy and speed.
“We have also invested in AI powered customer engagement platforms, including chatbots and digital assistants, which provide real-time support, improve customer experience and reduce operational pressure on our teams.
“Beyond internal operations, we are extending these benefits to our customers. Through our SME initiatives, we are providing entrepreneurs with digital tools such as POS systems and enterprise software that simplify accounting, inventory management, and business decision making, helping them operate more efficiently and scale sustainably,” she said.
On the Africa scene, she noted that banks across the continent were deploying AI to enhance fraud detection, improve credit assessment, and streamline customer onboarding processes, reducing costs and improving service delivery.
“Some have implemented AI driven systems that analyse transactions in real time, detect anomalies, and reduce operational risks, while others have leveraged digital assistants to manage customer interactions at scale, improving response time and freeing human capacity for higher value tasks.
“Across Kenya and South Africa, AI powered solutions are also supporting financial inclusion by enabling faster loan decisions and better risk management.
“The message is clear, Africa is not just a consumer of technology, we are active participants in shaping its future, she added.
She stated that efficiency was no longer optional, but a strategic imperative. “Organisations that fail to adopt intelligent systems will struggle with cost inefficiencies, slow decision making, and declining competitiveness. Those that embrace AI and IoT will operate faster, respond better, and deliver more value,” she said.
More so, she identified three key success factors from Fidelity bank experience, among which were, leadership commitment. Digital transformation must be driven from the top, with clear vision and sustained investment.
Second, data discipline. AI and IoT were only as effective as the data that powered them. Organisations must prioritise data quality, governance and security.
Third, talent and culture. Technology alone was not enough. People must be equipped with the skills and mindset to leverage these tools effectively.
Looking into the future, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe posited that we must recognize that the convergence of AI and IoT would accelerate addingthe world would see smarter cities, intelligent supply chains, predictive healthcare, and more inclusive financial systems.
“The question is no longer whether these technologies will shape our future, how prepared we are to harness them” she added.
