Residents of Kamba in Dandi Local Government Area of Kebbi State have welcomed the opening of a new Fidelity Bank Plc branch, describing it as a significant milestone that will ease longstanding financial and logistical challenges faced by farmers, small-scale traders, and individuals in the community.
The Chairman of Dandi Local Government Council, Dr. Mansur Isah-Kamba, described the branch as a welcome relief after years of limited access to formal banking services. Represented by the Council Secretary, Alhaji Abdulkadir Muhammad, Isah-Kamba pointed out that residents — including over 83 traditional rulers on the local government payroll — previously travelled long distances to Birnin Kebbi for routine banking transactions.
“With the opening of this branch in our locality, the stress, cost, and time associated with banking outside the community will be significantly reduced,” he said. He also commended Fidelity Bank for its foresight and commitment to supporting farmers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
On his part, the Sarkin Shikon of Kamba, Alhaji Mahmoud Zarumai-Fana, described farming as the primary occupation in the area and expressed optimism that the new branch would help boost commercial activities.
“Our people are predominantly farmers. Access to financial services will help them improve productivity and livelihoods. Farmers need support such as pumping machines, fertilisers, and pesticides, and proximity to banking services will make it easier to save, access loans, and participate in agricultural intervention programmes,” he said.
Speaking at the official inauguration ceremony, Mr. Muhammad Lawal-Ahijo, Regional Bank Head, North-West Region, Fidelity Bank Plc, highlighted the bank’s commitment to expanding financial access and supporting Nigeria’s economic growth.
“Our decision to establish this branch is rooted in our belief that every community deserves access to reliable financial services that enable people to grow, businesses to thrive, and local economies to prosper. Kamba is a thriving agricultural community, and the decision to open a branch here is a strategic investment in the future of its farmers, traders, and households. While the infrastructure is for the bank, this branch belongs to the community. We encourage residents to take ownership by fully utilising the services available,” Lawal-Ahijo said.
He further emphasised the bank’s dedication to empowering informal sector workers and SMEs, stating, “Our goal is to bring banking closer to the people and support farmers, SMEs, and households with accessible financial services that drive sustainable growth.”
