The People Empowerment and Development Foundation Microfinance Institution (PEDF MFI) on Tuesday marked its one-year anniversary, celebrating significant achievements in financial inclusion, education support, and community empowerment across Obudu and neighbouring communities.
Speaking at the event, Founder and CEO Prince Lawrence Ukpapi expressed gratitude to partners and community members for trusting the organisation since inception. He highlighted PEDF’s commitment to providing accessible financial services, supporting out-of-school children with learning materials and school fees, and driving financial literacy campaigns across markets and schools.
Earlier, the Clan Head of Akonbib, HRH Chief Pius Akpeke Ukpapi, described PEDF as a model of transparent and community-centred microfinance, commending the management for its dedication and integrity.
Goodwill messages also came from beneficiaries, including the CEO of Sugar Land Hotel and Sugar Mighty Blocks Industry, Mr. Moses Betelwhoble, who praised PEDF for providing the loan that enabled him to install solar energy in his hotel. He encouraged business owners to partner with PEDF, noting its reliability and excellent customer service.
A key highlight was the testimony from HRH Ezekiel Moses, honoured as the Most Supportive Customer of the Year, who narrated how he moved his savings from conventional banks to PEDF due to its attractive return on investment and swift service delivery. Another beneficiary applauded the institution for restoring public confidence through transparent and compassionate service.
PEDF also honoured outstanding contributors, with Engr. John Ikwen receiving the Most Outstanding Customer of the Year award and Mr. Peter Akpanke named Best Staff of the Year.
As the foundation enters its second year, Prince Ukpapi reaffirmed PEDF’s commitment to expanding its outreach-empowering more children, supporting more businesses, and strengthening financial responsibility across communities. He emphasised that the one-year milestone is only the beginning of a broader mission to transform lives through accessible and people-focused finance.
© PEDF_Media
November 2025
