By Francis Ajuonuma
United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to strategic expansion across Africa and beyond as it concluded its 2025 Half-Year Business Review at the Group’s global headquarters in Lagos, Nigeria.
The high-level strategy session, led by the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, brought together regional and country executives overseeing UBA’s operations in 24 countries.
The meeting provided a platform to assess progress, deepen its pan-African agenda, and chart new territories for growth in both emerging and established markets.
With non-Nigerian operations now contributing more than 51.7 per cent of the Group’s total revenue, UBA’s ambition to be Africa’s most diversified financial services institution is gaining momentum.
“UBA’s vision is clear – we are building a truly global institution anchored in Africa but serving customers across continents,” Alawuba stated.
“Our continued expansion into new African markets and strategic upgrades in global financial hubs positions us to unlock opportunities, facilitate intra-African trade, and deliver world-class banking experiences.”
Since its Pan-African journey began with the launch of operations in Ghana in 2004, UBA has expanded into 19 African countries.
Today, it is positioning itself not only as a leader in retail, commercial and institutional banking across the continent but also as a bridge connecting Africa to the world.
Alawuba disclosed that the Group’s forward-looking strategy includes entry into high-potential markets and significant strengthening of its existing footprints.
He cited the planned expansion into Saudi Arabia—announced in January 2025—as a significant milestone in the bank’s global outlook.
Outside Africa, UBA continues to bolster its presence. It currently operates in the United Kingdom and has maintained a strong presence in New York for over 40 years.
The Group is also upgrading its license in France to enhance its capacity to support cross-border trade and investment flows and serve the growing African diaspora.
“Our international strategy is deliberate and responsive to the increasing demand for inclusive, reliable financial solutions. We are reshaping the competitive landscape with our continental strength and global reach,” Alawuba added.
With operations spanning Africa, Europe, North America, and the Middle East, UBA remains at the forefront of financial inclusion and innovation. The bank serves over 45 million customers globally and employs more than 25,000 people, making it one of the largest economic sector employers on the continent.
