Paragraph 1: UBA’s 75th Anniversary and Vision for the Future
The United Bank for Africa (UBA) marked its 75th anniversary with a grand gala dinner in Abuja, attended by dignitaries including Vice President Kashim Shettima, government officials, diplomats, and industry leaders. During the celebration, UBA unveiled its ambitious vision for the next 75 years: expanding its global footprint to over 100 countries and serving a customer base exceeding one billion. The bank emphasized its commitment to building a future defined by opportunity, inclusion, and transformation for the next generation of Africans. This vision reflects UBA’s evolution from its humble beginnings in 1949 as the British and French Bank on Lagos Island to its current status as a pan-African financial institution with operations in 20 African countries and four global financial centers (New York, London, Paris, and Dubai), serving over 45 million customers.
Paragraph 2: UBA’s Strong Financial Performance and Future Growth Strategies
UBA reported a strong financial performance in the 2024 fiscal year, further solidifying its position for future growth. The bank recorded significant increases in gross earnings (up 53.6% to N3.19 trillion), total assets (up 46.8% to N30.32 trillion), and shareholders’ funds (up 68.39% to N3.42 trillion). To achieve its ambitious expansion plans, UBA intends to leverage cutting-edge technology, customer-centric innovations, and robust relationships to cater to the evolving needs of individuals, businesses, and governments. The bank aims to not merely participate in Africa’s economic renaissance but to actively shape and champion its transformation, establishing itself as a key player in driving sustainable growth across the continent.
Paragraph 3: Leadership Perspectives on UBA’s Past, Present, and Future
UBA’s Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Oliver Alawuba, reiterated the bank’s commitment to building more than just a financial institution but a future for Africa. He outlined the vision of expanding to every African country and beyond, ultimately serving over a billion customers. Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their contributions to the bank’s success while linking UBA’s future growth to Nigeria’s economic reforms. He confidently asserted that UBA would "keep roaring" as the Nigerian economy transforms under President Tinubu’s leadership. Elumelu also suggested that the pan-African expansion could be achieved in a significantly shorter timeframe than 75 years, potentially within 7.5 years.
Paragraph 4: Vice President Shettima’s Recognition of UBA’s Achievements and Leadership
Vice President Kashim Shettima commended UBA’s resilience and transformation over its 75-year history, highlighting the bank’s leadership in innovation, emerging markets, and generational transitions. He attributed the bank’s longevity to its ability to navigate challenges, adapt to changing times, and embrace innovative thinking. Shettima praised UBA’s consistent pursuit of relevance and its knack for anticipating and meeting the evolving needs of the market. He emphasized that UBA’s success is not just a result of managing capital, but also a product of managing curiosity and proactively seeking new opportunities.
Paragraph 5: Celebrating Tony Elumelu’s Visionary Leadership
Vice President Shettima lauded Tony Elumelu’s leadership, describing him as a “dream-maker” rather than just a dreamer. He highlighted Elumelu’s unique ability to translate vision into reality and his significant impact on the African business landscape. Shettima emphasized Elumelu’s skill in bridging generational gaps and redefining leadership in Africa, setting a new standard for future leaders. He acknowledged Elumelu’s ability to balance his corporate leadership with a strong commitment to community and family values, underscoring his holistic approach to leadership.
Paragraph 6: UBA’s Legacy and Future Trajectory
UBA’s 75th anniversary serves as a testament to its enduring legacy and its ambitious vision for the future. The bank’s commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and pan-African expansion positions it for continued success in the evolving financial landscape. With its strong financial performance, dedicated leadership, and focus on transforming Africa’s economic future, UBA is poised to achieve its goal of becoming a truly global financial institution, serving a vast customer base and playing a pivotal role in driving sustainable development across the continent and beyond. The bank’s journey over the next 75 years promises to be a continuation of its pioneering spirit, driven by its core values and its unwavering commitment to building a brighter future for Africa.
