UBA Empowers Over 3,200 Young Professionals Through Graduate Training Programme
United Bank for Africa (UBA)
United Bank for Africa (UBA) has taken a significant step in addressing youth unemployment and skills development in Nigeria and across Africa. Through its Graduate Management Acceleration Programme (GMAP), the bank has trained and inducted 3,222 young banking and finance professionals, equipping them with essential skills for leadership roles in the financial sector.
Equipping Young Nigerians for the Future
UBA’s GMAP initiative, launched three years ago, focuses on mentorship, rigorous training, and hands-on experience to prepare young graduates for dynamic careers in banking. The programme serves as a pathway to professional success, ensuring that graduates develop the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the competitive financial industry.
A New Cohort of Banking Professionals
On Wednesday, the bank inducted another 1,138 graduates into its workforce after an intensive training period. This cohort, selected through a highly competitive process, underwent months of rigorous learning, assessment, and practical exposure to the banking world.
The induction ceremony, held in Lagos, saw the presence of UBA’s top executives, including Group Chairman Tony Elumelu and Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer Oliver Alawuba, alongside board members, faculty members, and mentors. The event celebrated the achievements of the graduates and emphasized the bank’s commitment to youth empowerment.
Bridging the Unemployment Gap in Nigeria
During the event, Tony Elumelu underscored UBA’s mission to empower young professionals, stating that Africa’s transformation depends on dynamic and ambitious youth. He emphasized that hard work, resilience, and continuous learning are the keys to success and urged the graduates to make a positive impact on the financial sector and beyond.
Similarly, Oliver Alawuba expressed pride in the graduates, reaffirming UBA’s dedication to human capital development. He noted that the GMAP initiative plays a vital role in equipping young Nigerians with industry-relevant skills, fostering leadership potential, and ensuring their ability to navigate the evolving financial landscape.
UBA’s commitment to youth empowerment through the GMAP initiative is not just about training professionals; it’s about shaping future leaders who will drive Africa’s financial growth and stability.”
Promoting Gender Diversity and Inclusion
UBA remains committed to promoting gender equity in the workplace. Of the 1,138 newly inducted graduates, 666 (58%) are women, showcasing the bank’s drive towards fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce.
UBA’s Role in Africa’s Economic Growth
As one of the largest employers in the African financial sector, UBA continues to play a crucial role in economic development. With 25,000 employees worldwide and a customer base of over 45 million, the bank operates in 20 African countries, as well as the United Kingdom, United States, France, and the United Arab Emirates. Through initiatives like GMAP, UBA is shaping the next generation of banking leaders who will contribute to Africa’s financial stability and growth.
UBA’s Graduate Management Acceleration Programme is more than just a training initiative; it is a life-changing opportunity for young professionals in Nigeria and beyond. By investing in youth development, UBA is not only helping to reduce unemployment but also fostering a skilled workforce that will drive Africa’s economic future. With continued efforts to empower and mentor young Nigerians, the financial sector stands to benefit from a new generation of competent and visionary leaders.
