United Bank for Africa Plc has strengthened its position as one of Africa’s leading financial institutions after being named Nigeria’s Best Bank for Retail and Best Bank for Sustainability Leadership at the prestigious 2026 Euromoney Awards for Excellence.
The awards, presented on Thursday in London, recognise financial institutions that demonstrate strong performance, innovation, customer impact and commitment to sustainable business practices.
The double honour highlights UBA’s leadership in sustainable finance and its efforts to expand access to innovative banking solutions for millions of customers across Africa.
According to Euromoney, UBA distinguished itself through significant progress in environmental, social and governance performance, including the launch of a Green Financing Facility to support households and businesses.
The bank was also recognised for its transition towards renewable energy, including a N5bn financing programme launched in partnership with the Bank of Industry to support women-owned businesses, as well as its long-term commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Euromoney further highlighted UBA’s efforts to integrate sustainability into its operations through the deployment of solar-powered energy solutions across 50 branches and comprehensive ESG capacity-building programmes that have trained more than 16,000 employees across the Group.
In the retail banking category, Euromoney recognised UBA’s continued growth as one of Africa’s largest retail banking franchises.
The bank expanded its customer base to more than 37 million by the end of 2025, while retail revenue more than quadrupled to N429.5bn.
The awards also recognised UBA’s continued digital innovation, particularly the enhancement of its award-winning AI-powered chatbot, LEO. The platform became Africa’s first artificial intelligence banking solution to facilitate cross-border money transfers in local currencies through the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System.
Commenting on the recognition, UBA’s Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, said the awards validate the bank’s unwavering commitment to delivering value to customers while advancing sustainable development across Africa.
He said, “To be recognised as Nigeria’s Best Bank for both ESG and Retail Banking in the same year sends a powerful message that sustainable banking and commercial success are mutually reinforcing.
“At UBA, we are committed to financing Africa’s future, supporting businesses and communities, promoting financial inclusion, and delivering innovative banking solutions that improve lives. These awards belong to our customers for their confidence in us and to every member of the UBA family whose dedication continues to make our vision a reality.”
