BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, has commended Fidelity Bank Plc for repaying its $400 million Eurobond at maturity, describing the achievement as a sign of strong financial management and leadership.
Onyema, in a congratulatory message issued on behalf of the airline’s board, management and staff, praised the bank for meeting its financial obligations throughout the five-year period of the bond.
He particularly commended the bank for funding the repayment entirely from its internal resources without relying on fresh borrowing.
He attributed the achievement to the leadership of Fidelity Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, saying her strategic direction had strengthened the bank’s financial position and reputation.
Onyema also applauded the bank for completing its recapitalisation ahead of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s deadline, describing the two achievements as evidence of sound management and financial discipline.
He noted that strong banks were important to the growth of capital-intensive sectors such as aviation, where businesses require substantial funding for aircraft acquisition, daily operations and expansion.
According to him, partnerships between financially strong banks and indigenous businesses are essential to improving Nigeria’s economic competitiveness and supporting national development.
The Air Peace chairman congratulated Onyeali-Ikpe, the board, management and staff of Fidelity Bank, expressing confidence in the institution’s ability to achieve greater milestones.
He also reaffirmed Air Peace’s goodwill towards the bank and wished it continued growth and stability.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
