By RUKAYAT ADEYEMI

Mr Oliver Alawuba, Group Managing Director, UBA, on Monday acknowledged the role played by the bank’s Group Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu, in shaping UBA’s trajectory.

Alawuba gave the commendation at a world press conference in commemoration of the bank’s 75th Anniversary on on Monday in Lagos.

The event also showcased the bank’s rich history and outlined its future vision.

Commending the contributions of past and present leaders, Alawuba acknowledged the role played by the current Group Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu, in shaping UBA’s trajectory.

He said that under Elumelu’s visionary leadership, UBA had experienced significant growth and innovation, becoming a trusted financial partner for millions across Africa and beyond.

The UBA boss said that the bank’s years of existence had been of innovation, stability and customer-centric growth.

On UBA’s impressive achievements, Alawuba revealed the bank’s extensive reach, with operations spanning 20 African countries and presence in four global financial nerve centres.

According to him, with over 25,000 staff serving more than 35 million customers, UBA stands as a beacon of stability and excellence in the banking industry.

Alawuba said that the bank had been introducing several groundbreaking initiatives in the Nigerian banking landscape.

He noted that the bank had consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, from pioneering mobile banking and installing the first ATMs in Nigeria to launching innovative chatbot banking solutions.

Looking ahead, Alawuba emphasised UBA’s commitment to digital transformation and innovation, with a focus on enhancing customer experience and driving operational efficiency.

The bank’s strategic vision includes expanding its presence, seizing growth opportunities, and deepening relationships with stakeholders.

Alawuba said that UBA was the first Bank in Nigeria to offer an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 1970.

Alawuba stated that the Bank was the first in Nigeria banking industry to be listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

According to him, UBA was the first Nigerian Bank to open a branch in the USA and London.

He said:” UBA was the first bank in Nigeria to install ATMs, the first Bank to open a campus branch at the University of Lagos(UNILAG) in Nigeria and the first Nigerian Bank to open a subsidiary in Africa, specifically, Ghana, in 2005.

“UBA appointed the first female Board Chairperson in Nigeria and was a pioneer in introducing mobile banking in Nigeria.

“The Bank introduced Leo, the first multi-lingual chatbot in Nigeria and was the first Nigerian Bank to launch the most successful prepaid cards across Africa.”

Alawuba noted that amidst economic challenges and market dynamics, the group has demonstrated remarkable financial strength and resilience.

He expressed that the performance of the group especially within the last year is a testament to its robust fundamentals and sound strategic decisions.

The group managing director further stated that UBA remained committed to creating value for its shareholders and capitalising on emerging opportunities in the market, as it navigate through the ever-changing landscape.

Also, Mr Muyiwa Akinyemi, Deputy Managing Director of UBA, highlighted the group’s commitment to stability, reliability, and excellence in banking, emphasising its numerous milestones and positive impact on communities.

He attributed UBA’s success to its dedication to exceptional customer experience and financial strength

According to him, the group aims to continue offering value-enhancing services while solidifying its position as a forward-thinking institution.

As UBA looks to the future, Akinyemi expressed enthusiasm for the next chapter, saying, “We look forward to another 75 years, 100 years of impact; to our people, businesses, and communities across the globe.”

From its humble beginnings as the British and French Bank on Kakawa Street, Lagos Island in 1949, UBA has evolved into a global financial powerhouse with a presence in 20 African countries and four global financial nerve centers – New York, London, Paris, and Dubai.

The anniversary celebrations, which kicked off with a news conference, will feature a range of activities, including the launch of UBA’s documentary.

Others include Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes, a global HACKATON online programme for youths, a legacy promo, and a grand finale in November, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

•UBA management team at a news conference heralding the bank’s 75th Anniversary on Monday in Lagos

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