United Bank for Africa Plc announced a bold strategic vision to expand its operations to more than 100 countries and grow its customer base to over one billion within the next 75 years.

This announcement was made during the bank’s 75th anniversary gala dinner in Abuja on Saturday, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and key stakeholders from across Africa.

UBA’s Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Oliver Alawuba, outlined the bank’s commitment to a future driven by opportunity, inclusion, and transformation.

“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,” Alawuba said.

UBA, which began operations in 1949 as the British and French Bank on Kakawa Street, Lagos Island, has since expanded to 20 African countries and four international financial hubs: New York, London, Paris, and Dubai, serving over 45 million customers.

In its 2024 financial year, the group demonstrated strong growth, with gross earnings increasing by 53.6% to N3.19 trillion, total assets rising by 46.8% to N30.32 trillion, and shareholders’ funds growing by 68.39% to N3.42 trillion.

Looking to the future, Alawuba said, “In the next 75 years, we envision a UBA with a presence in every African country and an expansion to over 100 countries worldwide. In the next 75 years, UBA will serve more than one billion customers, leveraging cutting-edge technology, customer-first innovation, and trusted relationships to meet the evolving needs of individuals, businesses, and governments.”

He emphasized that UBA is committed not only to participating in Africa’s economic revival but also to playing a pivotal role in driving and leading its transformation.

The Group Chairman of UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu, expressed his gratitude to customers, shareholders, and staff for their invaluable contributions to the bank’s success over the years.

“This is a night of celebration, gratitude to God and to customers and shareholders who have made it possible,” Elumelu said.

Elumelu emphasized that expanding the bank’s presence to every African country is a feasible goal within a shorter timeframe.

With the bank already operating in around 20 countries, he believes it can extend its reach across the continent in just 7.5 years.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, lauded UBA’s resilience and transformation over the decades, describing the bank as a pacesetter in innovation, emerging markets, and generational leadership.

“Seventy-five years is not something you pick up at a supermarket. It is earned — through risks and calculations, through storms and sunshine, through mergers and acquisitions, and through the brainpower and courage of those who believe in its promise of a new world. That is what leadership means,” Shettima said.

The Vice President highlighted that UBA’s continued vibrancy across generations reflects its commitment to staying relevant, embracing innovative thinking, and adapting to change.

“UBA has remained a pacesetter because it is led by people who do not just manage capital but manage curiosity,” he stated.

Shettima also commended Elumelu’s leadership, describing him as “a dream-maker” who had bridged generational gaps and redefined what it means to lead in Africa.

“Tony Elumelu is not a dreamer. Dreamers are those stuck in a 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 said.