United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has strengthened its reputation as one of Africa’s leading financial institutions after winning Nigeria’s Best Bank for Retail and Sustainability Leadership (ESG) at the 2026 Euromoney Awards for Excellence.
The awards, presented on 17 July 2026 at The Peninsula London in the United Kingdom, recognise banks that excel in financial performance, innovation, customer service and sustainable business practices.
The double honour reflects UBA’s growing influence in sustainable banking and its commitment to delivering innovative financial services to millions of customers across Africa.
According to Euromoney, the bank stood out through major achievements in environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives. These include launching a Green Financing Facility to help households and businesses adopt renewable energy, introducing a ₦5 billion financing programme with the Bank of Industry to support women-owned businesses, and committing to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The publication also recognised UBA’s sustainability efforts, including the installation of solar-powered energy solutions across 50 branches and ESG training programmes that have equipped more than 16,000 employees across the Group.
In the retail banking category, Euromoney highlighted the bank’s continued growth, with its customer base surpassing 37 million by the end of 2025, while retail revenue increased more than fourfold to ₦429.5 billion.
The awards also acknowledged UBA’s digital innovation, particularly its AI-powered chatbot, LEO, which became Africa’s first artificial intelligence banking platform to enable cross-border money transfers in local currencies through the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS).
Reacting to the recognition, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Oliver Alawuba said the awards reflect the bank’s dedication to combining sustainable banking with commercial success.
“To be recognised as Nigeria’s Best Bank for both ESG and Retail Banking in the same year sends a powerful message that sustainable banking and commercial success are mutually reinforcing.
“At UBA, we are committed to financing Africa’s future, supporting businesses and communities, promoting financial inclusion, and delivering innovative banking solutions that improve lives. These awards belong to our customers for their confidence in us and to every member of the UBA family whose dedication continues to make our vision a reality.”
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