Leading financial institution Fidelity Bank Plc has been unveiled as the headline sponsor of Gymfest Championship 2025, a premier gymnastics event dedicated to nurturing physical literacy, confidence and life skills in children and young people.
The event, organised by Tee Tumblers Gymnastics Club in partnership with the Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN), will take place on November 8, 2025, at The Podium in Lekki, Lagos.
Speaking on the sponsorship, Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, emphasised the bank’s commitment to youth development through sports.
“Our sponsorship of Gymfest is borne out of our devotion to developing sporting talents, especially in young children. Gymnastics builds discipline, resilience and confidence, and we believe that by supporting platforms like Gymfest, we are investing in the future of Nigeria’s youth,” she said.
Now in its second edition, Gymfest is expected to attract over 1,500 attendees, including 200 to 250 young gymnasts aged three and above, who will compete across levels from Pre-level to Level 7. The event will also feature the Gymfest Souk, a vibrant marketplace with approximately 50 vendors offering products and experiences for families and fitness enthusiasts.
“The Gymfest Championships aim to provide a dynamic platform for young and talented gymnasts to showcase their skills, creativity, and passion for the sport. Nigeria, and indeed Africa is rich with untapped gymnastics talent. This event serves as a celebration of that talent and a means to nurture it toward the global stage.
“Our ultimate goal is to establish a world-class gymnastics training centre in Nigeria, where athletes can train safely, effectively, and to international standards. Additionally, we seek to develop a coaching education centre to empower aspiring gymnastics coaches through professional training and continuous development,” said Yoyin Akpose, CEO of Teetumblers and Program Director of the event.
Gymnastics remains one of the most under-represented sports in Nigeria, yet it offers immense potential. According to the International Gymnastics Federation, over 30 countries have medalled in Olympic gymnastics events, with nations like the United States, China and Russia dominating the sport. Nigeria’s participation has been limited, but with structured grassroots programs and increased investment, the country can begin to compete on the global stage.
Fidelity Bank’s sponsorship of Gymfest aligns with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pillar of Youth Empowerment. Through this pillar, the bank has consistently supported initiatives that equip young people with skills, opportunities and platforms to thrive. This latest partnership also advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.
As Gymfest 2.0 prepares to spotlight Nigeria’s next generation of gymnasts, Fidelity Bank’s involvement underscores the transformative power of corporate support in shaping a more dynamic and inclusive sporting future.
