Nebolisa Arah Celebrated at 75 for Banking Legacy

Nebolisa Arah, born on August 8, 1951, in Port Harcourt, was celebrated on August 8, 2026, during his 75th birthday thanksgiving in Lagos. Arah, the pioneer Managing Director of Fidelity Bank (NGX: FIDELITYBK), has significantly influenced the banking sector through his integrity, humility, and mentorship.

His career began outside banking, working as a Brand Marketing Trainee at Lever Brothers Nigeria Limited before joining International Merchant Bank Limited in March 1981. In October 1988, he became General Manager/Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Union Merchant Bank Limited, which later became Fidelity Bank Plc, serving until December 2003.

After leaving Fidelity, Arah served as an independent director in two commercial banks and worked as a merger consultant. He founded AGL and LDL and later returned to executive banking as Managing Director and CEO of Afribank Nigeria Plc from 2009 to 2011.

His enduring legacy was celebrated by former colleagues and associates at the event, highlighting his role in shaping their careers.