UBA at 75: VP Hails Bank’s Enduring Relevance, Elumelu’s Vision
By Patience Ikpeme
The Federal Government has given high commendations to the United Bank for Africa (UBA) for its remarkable 75 years of operation in the banking sector.
Speaking at the bank’s 75th anniversary celebration held in Abuja over the weekend, Vice President Kashim Shettima lauded UBA for its exceptional longevity, surpassing all its contemporaries. VP Shettima attributed this enduring success to the bank’s unwavering pursuit of relevance, describing UBA as a prime example of what an African institution can achieve through the institutionalization of excellence.
“UBA’s staying power is owed to its pursuit of relevance. It has stood as a reward for new thinking, expanding not just across geography, but across ideas,” the Vice President stated.
“It serves millions, it shapes economies, and it influences the narrative of what an African institution can become when excellence is institutionalised and when well-intentioned dream-makers are in charge,” he added.
VP Shettima acknowledged the pivotal leadership of the bank’s Chairman, Mr. Tony Elumelu, whom he recognized as one of the continent’s most distinguished figures. He observed that the history of any institution is intrinsically linked to the vision and dedication of those who believe in it.
According to the Vice President, Mr. Elumelu has “become a bridge between the old and the new, between the outdated and the emerging,” noting his ability to connect with and earn the trust of younger generations. “He has won the trust of even the Gen Zs, or whatever this brilliant, digital generation calls itself,” VP Shettima remarked.
He further observed that the Gen Zs have absolute trust in Mr. Elumelu “not because of the era he was born in, but because of the attention he pays to theirs,” adding that his message resonates across generations because he actively listens to them.
“Tony Elumelu is not a dreamer. Dreamers are those who are stuck in the bubble. Mr. Elumelu is a dream-maker. He has made true the imagination of those who wish for an empire from the comfort of their homes. He has taught us that it is possible to build without breaking, to lead without losing touch, and to dream without borders,” VP Shettima conveyed.
He also spoke about Mr. Elumelu’s ability to balance professional and personal life, stating, “One thing that has amused me about Mr. Elumelu over the years is that he has cracked a code many still struggle to decipher—the delicate art of balancing the boardroom with the living room, of being a captain of industry and still a commander at home.”
“Not many men have managed a balance between building empires and building families, between saving the world and being present at Christmas in their village. But this man, this maverick, this dream-maker, has shown us that you can help move the continent forward without losing touch with home and family,” the Vice President noted.
In his address, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of UBA, Dr. Oliver Alawuba, outlined the bank’s ambitious plans for the next 75 years.
“In the next 75 years, we envision a UBA with presence in every African country and will expand its footprints to over 100 countries across the world, deepening its role as a truly global African institution,” Dr. Alawuba revealed.
He further stated, “In the next 75 years, UBA will serve more than one billion customers, leveraging cutting-edge technology, customer-first innovation, and trusted relationships and collaborations to meet the evolving needs of individuals, businesses, and governments.”
Dr. Alawuba conveyed the bank’s broader vision, saying, “In the next 75 years, UBA will be more than a part of Africa’s economic renaissance – it will shape its trajectory and champion its transformation.”
He described the Friday night gala as more than just a celebration, but “about renewal: A renewed commitment to innovation, service, and social impact; A renewed ambition to lead Africa as a strong player in the global economy; and A renewed pledge to remain a beacon of excellence for generations to come.”
“At UBA, we are building more than a bank; we are building a future for the next generation of Africans – one defined by opportunity, inclusion, and transformation,” Dr. Alawuba affirmed.
Earlier in the day, the Group Chairman of UBA, Tony Elumelu, acknowledged the crucial role of the bank’s shareholders, stating that their steadfast support “has been instrumental in driving our achievements for over 75 years.”
Reflecting on the milestone, Mr. Elumelu said, “Few institutions globally have such heritage, very few financial institutions in Africa can demonstrate the resilience, the persistence and commitment that UBA has shown to our customers, our shareholders and our people.”
“As we end our celebration of three quarters of a century of progress and innovation, I salute our founders and look excitedly to the future, as we deliver on our mission to be Africa’s Global Bank,” Mr. Elumelu concluded.
