The Chairperson of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Tony Elumelu, has revealed that he started his career as a trainee many years ago.
According to Elumelu while speaking to 700 UBA graduate trainees, drawn from across Africa, titled: “Nurturing excellence and crafting future African leaders at UBA” said countless challenges and triumphs have marked his way from the beginning of his career till date.
He said, “I make it a point to share fragments of my journey, detailing my processes, highlighting my triumphs, and even discussing my lowest moments.
“This practice isn’t just a personal reflection; it’s a conscious effort to ensure everyone can learn from the dedication and hard work that has marked my career. Through these personal stories, bonds are forged, and lessons are imparted.
“This ethos of transparency and shared learning is central to my approach and symbolic of the values that drive UBA’s success. As an institution, every stage of one’s career should be marked by growth, mentorship, and the continuous pursuit of excellence.
“This same excellence has driven me throughout my career – a vision of creating a bank for all, a bank for Africa and an environment where talent is nurtured, dreams are realised, and excellence is celebrated. It is a vision that has inspired me to create a world-class trainee programme that will nurture future leaders, who mirror the passion and dedication I demonstrated as a trainee myself.
“But beyond nurturing future leaders, the UBA GMAP –our bespoke graduate trainee programme– is making significant strides in addressing critical societal issues.
“The experience reinforced to me the criticality of institution building. In front of me was a generation of new leaders. UBA has created a six-month programme, identifying the best and brightest young men and women from across Africa. We have invested in and equipped our youth. We have done well and done good.
Addressing the issue of unemployment through job creation, he said the UBA graduate trainee programme goes beyond its primary goal of nurturing future leaders; it also plays a vital role in addressing the pervasive curse of unemployment across the African continent.
“Youth unemployment remains a significant challenge, and UBA actively contributes to the solution. The Group is creating tangible jobs for young Africans by providing opportunities through this programme.
“These jobs not only benefit the individuals involved but also positively impact our immediate environment and stimulate the economic growth of our continent’s economy.
“Creating opportunities for and investing in young Africans: UBA’s commitment to developing and empowering young talent responds to the pressing need for opportunities on our continent.
“GMAP is designed to identify and nurture the potential of young Africans, giving them access to training, mentorship, and real-world experiences essential for their personal and professional growth. It is building to last.
“By investing in these young minds, UBA is shaping the banking industry’s future and offering hope and prospects to a generation of African youth eager to contribute to their communities and the broader society.