United Bank for Africa Plc, Africa’s Global Bank, has inducted over 700 young professionals into its workforce following their graduation from the Graduate Management Accelerated Programme—a flagship talent initiative designed to groom the next generation of African leaders.

Since its launch three years ago, the GMAP has successfully produced more than 4,000 professionals across the banking and finance sector, equipping them with essential skills, mentorship, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the industry.

At the 2025 GMAP graduation ceremony held at the Landmark Events Centre, Lagos, UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, charged the new entrants to uphold the bank’s core values of excellence, integrity, and service.

Describing the graduates as “lions and lionesses,” he strongly reaffirmed UBA’s belief in the transformative power of young people.

Elumelu shared his personal journey and the bank’s mission, stating: “We are happy to have you as part of this tribe. I started out just like you, and I am proud that UBA continues to provide opportunities for young Africans to grow. Remember your purpose and stay driven — we must show the world that African institutions can be globally respected.”

Representing the Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, Deputy GMD Chukwuma Nweke urged the graduates to be innovators and ambassadors of UBA’s legacy, noting that they are joining a vast workforce of over 30,000 employees across 20 African countries and key global hubs.

The graduates themselves expressed enthusiasm for the journey ahead. Ayomitide Ebo described the GMAP experience as “rigorous but transformative,” while Mary Olatibosun shared that joining UBA fulfilled a lifelong dream.

From Kenya, Rosemary Morioki remarked on the program’s intensity and value: “It has been intense but rewarding. We are ready to bring our innovative ideas to drive Africa’s global bank forward.”