Seven hundred young individuals have successfully completed the Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP) of the United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), showcasing the bank’s unwavering dedication to developing young talent and fostering leadership across Africa.
According to a statement from the bank, the graduation ceremony was held on Sunday at the Landmark Events Centre in Lagos, with participants drawn from Nigeria and other African countries where UBA operates. The event was attended by the Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, Deputy Group Managing Director, Chukwuma Nweke, as well as board members, top executives, and programme instructors, who officially welcomed the graduates into the UBA Tribe.
Since its launch over three years ago, the GMAP initiative has produced more than 4,000 professionals in banking and finance, providing them with essential expertise, mentorship, and practical exposure. The programme is structured to nurture leadership potential and equip participants with the skills necessary to excel in today’s dynamic financial sector.
In his remarks, Tony Elumelu described the graduates as “lions and lionesses,” a reflection of the strength and ambition the bank encourages among its people. He reaffirmed UBA’s commitment to grooming a new generation of capable and passionate leaders across the continent. “We are proud to have you join the UBA family,” Elumelu said. “At UBA, we believe in the transformative power of young people, which is why this programme was created,to pass on knowledge, discipline, and experience. Years ago, I began just like you, and I’m delighted that UBA is offering you the same opportunity to make a lasting impact.”
Elumelu added that UBA’s mission goes beyond profitability, emphasizing that the bank strives to contribute to social and economic progress, empower communities, and support Africa’s long-term development.
Also addressing the graduates, Chukwuma Nweke, who represented Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, commended their dedication and determination throughout the programme. He described the ceremony as a celebration of “talent, perseverance, and purpose,” adding that the participants are now equipped to become innovators, problem-solvers, and ambassadors of the UBA brand. “You are not just graduates,” Nweke stated. “You are the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and visionaries who will shape Africa’s future. This programme reaffirms our belief that the continent’s growth will be driven by capable and courageous individuals like you.”
He explained that GMAP is an intensive six-month learning experience that combines classroom instruction, digital simulations, field assignments, and mentorship by senior executives. Nweke encouraged the new graduates to take initiative, lead with purpose, and drive transformation in key areas such as technology, sustainability, and customer experience.
With this new class, UBA expands its workforce of over 25,000 employees who serve more than 45 million customers globally. The bank operates in 20 African countries, as well as in the United Kingdom, the United States, France, and the United Arab Emirates, further solidifying its reputation as one of Africa’s most influential financial institutions.
Through initiatives like GMAP, UBA continues to champion youth empowerment, leadership growth, and sustainable development across the continent.
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