Titled “A Different Kind of Love,” the initiative reflects
FCMB’s dedication to inclusivity and empowerment. The bank donated N5 million,
white canes, essential food items, and household materials to the Federal
Nigeria Society for the Blind Vocational Training Centre in Oshodi. Similar
donations of white canes, food items, and household materials were made to the
Bethesda Home for the Blind in Mushin, Pacelli School for the Blind in
Surulere, and Nigeria Farmcraft Centre for the Blind in Isheri-Olofin.
Students and teachers expressed their heartfelt appreciation
to FCMB for the thoughtful and inclusive celebrations.
A Different Kind Of Love - Valentine's Day 2024
Akinjide Akinpelu, a visually impaired teacher at the
Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind Vocational Training Centre, expressed his
gratitude for FCMB’s consistent support for the centre and its kindness towards
the visually impaired community.
Badru Asif, a student at the Pacelli School for the Blind,
expressed his deep appreciation to FCMB for organizing the Valentine’s Day
program. He acknowledged and appreciated the bank’s efforts, offering prayers
for its continued success.
Emeka Okeke, a student at the Bethesda School for the Blind,
shared his inspiring story of overcoming blindness to pursue higher education.
The graduate of the University of Lagos expressed his gratitude on behalf of
his peers for the gifts and the unique Valentine’s Day celebration.
Similar sentiments of appreciation were echoed by Ahmed
Ishola Kareem of Bethesda Home for the Blind and Omoniyi Sule of the Federal
Nigeria Society for the Blind Vocational Training Centre in Oshodi.
During an outreach program held between February 6 and 14,
2024, the Group Head of Corporate Affairs of FCMB, Mr. Diran Olojo, reaffirmed
the bank’s commitment to supporting a broad spectrum of communities and
stakeholders. He emphasized FCMB’s aim to create a sustainable and progressive
society with equal opportunities for all.
“A Different Kind of Love is not just a Valentine’s Day
gesture,” said Mr. Olojo. “It is a commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.
We believe in creating a world where everyone can reach their full potential
regardless of ability. We are actively promoting diversity, equity, and
inclusion. We urge students not to see physical challenges as impediments to
achieving their ambitions.”
The Executive Secretary of the Federal Nigeria Society for
the Blind Vocational Training Centre, Mr Oluwamayowa Oke, expressed his
gratitude for FCMB’s continuous support. He highlighted the challenges of
blindness in Nigeria and the centre’s role in empowering visually impaired
individuals.
“We are grateful to FCMB for being a strong pillar of
support,” Mr. Oke said. “The donations will ensure the welfare of our students
and support teaching and learning.”
The Principal of the Nigeria Farmcraft Centre for the Blind,
Mr. Mohammed Afegbua, described the FCMB gesture as a timely Valentine’s Day
gift. He commended the students’ positive response to their academic routine
and thanked FCMB for spreading love.
With over 4 million Nigerians reported to be blind or
visually impaired, FCMB remains committed to addressing this challenge. In
2009, the bank partnered with the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation (TCF) to initiate
the Priceless Gift of Sight program. Since its inception, the program has
reached over 400,000 individuals across communities nationwide, providing free
testing, optical services, surgeries, eyeglasses, and eye disease management.
First City Monument Bank is a member of the FCMB Group Plc.
FCMB is committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable growth within its
communities by building a supportive ecosystem rooted in Africa and connecting
people, capital, and markets.