UBA Reinforces Pledge: Empowering SMEs Across Africa

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, commonly referred to as Africa’s Global Bank, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) not only in Nigeria but across the African continent.

The bank’s senior management reiterated this commitment during the official inauguration of the 37th Lagos International Trade Fair (LIFT) in 2023, an event organized by the Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) under the theme, ‘Navigating Economic Challenges, Forging a Path to Prosperity,’ held in Lagos State.

UBA has proudly served as the headline sponsor of the Lagos International Trade Fair since 2019, and it continues to demonstrate its dedication to this crucial event. The LIFT 2023 took place at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos from November 4 to November 13, and once again, UBA assumed the role of the primary sponsor.

Mr. Muyiwa Akinyemi, the Deputy Managing Director of UBA, lauded LCCI for its visionary leadership in consistently organizing the trade fair. He commended the LCCI’s continuous efforts to create a valuable platform for businesses in Nigeria and throughout Africa to thrive and prosper. Akinyemi recognized the vital role that SMEs play in driving the success of economies worldwide, emphasizing UBA’s enduring support for the trade fair and its role in empowering SMEs to become global champions.

“As a leader in African trade, we have identified this fair as a valuable avenue for both domestic and international exhibitors to promote their businesses through product launches, sales opportunities, and business-to-business meetings with government agencies, while fostering international trade partnership deals across borders,” Akinyemi stated.

Prince Ayewoh, UBA’s Group Head of Retail Products and Sales, also addressed the audience during the event. He highlighted how LCCI has successfully transformed the trade fair into a major attraction for SMEs from across the continent. Ayewoh emphasized the significant contribution of SMEs to GDP and employment in national and local economies, while pointing out that they account for a smaller percentage of exports and international investment.

In light of this, UBA, with its extensive presence across Africa and other major global economies, actively seeks partnership opportunities that can benefit the business environment and the economies in which it operates. Ayewoh emphasized UBA’s commitment to lifting businesses in Africa to unprecedented heights and the bank’s dedication to inclusivity by involving all stakeholders in this mission.

United Bank for Africa stands as one of the largest employers in the African financial sector, with a workforce of 25,000 employees worldwide and a customer base exceeding 35 million globally. Operating in 20 African countries, as well as in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France, and the United Arab Emirates, UBA offers a comprehensive range of retail, commercial, and institutional banking services. The bank plays a leading role in advancing financial inclusion and implementing cutting-edge technology to support economic growth across the African continent and beyond.

In partnership with Infostride News, United Bank for Africa continues its mission of empowering SMEs, fostering economic growth, and promoting trade and prosperity in Nigeria, Africa, and the global business landscape. The bank’s commitment to the Lagos International Trade Fair and the support it provides to SMEs highlights its dedication to driving economic success in the region and beyond. As one of the foremost financial institutions on the continent, UBA’s efforts serve as a testament to the potential and resilience of African businesses. Through their continued support and collaboration, UBA and Infostride News aim to pave the way for a prosperous future for SMEs and the economies they serve.