United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), known as “Africa’s Global Bank,” has successfully concluded its inaugural Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP), marking a significant milestone in its commitment to grooming young African professionals.
The program saw the induction of more than 700 graduates into the UBA Tribe following an intensive six-month hands-on work and learning experience. The program, accredited by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), was adopted from the globally recognized Graduate Training Programme and aimed to enhance the capacity of fresh graduates by training them as professionals, enabling accelerated career growth into leadership and key positions.
These graduates, drawn from UBA’s 19 African subsidiaries, completed a rigorous capacity-building initiative that combined theoretical learning with practical on-the-job training. Participants rotated across various departments and units within the bank, gaining valuable experience along the way.
Tony Elumelu, Chairman of UBA, emphasized the importance of prioritizing human capital development and praised the program for producing talented and promising professionals prepared to elevate the bank to new heights. He stated, “We would love to see our future CEOs from this program, and I hope that the enthusiasm, excitement, and energy I see in this room today translate into the greatness we anticipate. UBA is addressing unemployment in Africa by providing opportunities for young Africans.”
Oliver Alawuba, the Group Managing Director, commended the dedication, resilience, and commitment displayed by all GMAP participants. He highlighted UBA’s commitment to offering equal opportunities for individuals to achieve their dreams, regardless of age, tribe, gender, or background. Alawuba stressed that the transformation of Africa was central to UBA’s vision and that they sought believers, doers, and agents of transformation to achieve this goal.
UBA’s GMAP demonstrates its dedication to investing in Africa’s youth, fostering professional growth, and addressing unemployment on the continent. The program equips young graduates with the skills and experience needed to contribute to Africa’s development and play pivotal roles in the bank’s future leadership.