UBA marks Africa day, reaffirms role as Pan-African financial connector

United Bank for Africa has reaffirmed its position as a key driver of continental integration and economic growth as it joined the rest of the continent to celebrate Africa Day 2026.

The bank commemorated the occasion with coordinated events across its operations in 20 African countries, bringing staff together to celebrate Africa’s cultural diversity and shared identity.

Speaking during the celebration, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, described the institution as more than a financial services provider, positioning it as a bridge connecting African markets, people, and opportunities.

According to him, UBA’s extensive footprint across the continent places it at the centre of Africa’s ongoing economic transformation, driven by innovation, entrepreneurship, and expanding cross-border trade.

“Africa’s story is changing,” Alawuba said, noting that young innovators, women leaders, and creatives are reshaping the continent’s global narrative, while institutions like UBA must continue to support that evolution.

The Africa Day celebration featured cultural exhibitions, fashion displays, music, and cuisine from the bank’s various markets, reflecting its diverse operational presence.

Alawuba also urged employees to translate the energy of the celebration into improved service delivery, emphasising excellence, responsiveness, and execution as core values needed to sustain the bank’s growth and relevance.

UBA used the occasion to showcase its lifestyle rewards platform, Red Vault, which connects customers to a network of African brands and experiences. Selected businesses were featured at the event to demonstrate how the platform supports local enterprises while enhancing customer engagement.

With operations spanning Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and North America, UBA currently serves over 45 million customers and employs about 25,000 people globally. The bank said it remains committed to advancing financial inclusion and leveraging technology to drive growth across its markets.