VP Shettima hails UBA’s innovation, leadership at 75th anniversary

By Kunle Sanni

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Friday praised the United Bank for Africa (UBA) for its 75 years of consistent innovation, leadership, and resilience, describing the bank as a “pacesetter” and a model for African institutions.

Speaking at UBA’s 75th Anniversary Dinner at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, Shettima commended the bank’s journey through decades of challenges and successes, noting that its achievements were “earned through risks, calculations, storms and sunshine.”

He highlighted UBA’s focus on innovation and responsiveness to emerging markets, saying the bank’s success lies in managing both capital and curiosity, and adapting to changing generational ambitions.

“UBA’s staying power is owed to its pursuit of relevance. It shapes economies and influences the narrative of what an African institution can become when excellence is institutionalized,” he said.

Shettima also paid tribute to UBA Group Chairman Tony Elumelu, describing him as “one of the finest sons of the African continent” and commending his ability to bridge generations with vision and empathy.

He further acknowledged Dr. Awele Elumelu, the Chairman’s wife, calling her “an Amazon and the quiet strength behind the force that is her husband.”

In his remarks, Tony Elumelu expressed gratitude to God, UBA customers, and shareholders, acknowledging the foundation laid by his predecessors and pledging to sustain UBA’s legacy.

Elumelu also expressed optimism about UBA’s future and tied the bank’s continued success to the economic progress under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.