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United Bank for Africa (UBA) has moved to reinforce its role as a strategic enabler of the Republic of Benin’s economic ambitions, with its Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, using a high-level visit to the country to signal deeper support for infrastructure, industrial growth, and public-private collaboration.
Alawuba was in Benin on January 28, 2026, for a one-day strategic working visit that combined government engagement, corporate client outreach, and internal leadership interactions. The visit reflected UBA’s broader Pan-African strategy of aligning banking services with national development priorities in key markets.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to Benin’s Senior Minister of Finance, Economy, and Cooperation, Romuald Wadagni, Alawuba said the bank sees itself not merely as a financial institution, but as a partner in translating policy ambitions into viable projects.
“Our presence in Benin is that of a committed stakeholder, and we see our role as a catalyst that will continue to collaborate in turning the vision of Benin’s strategic development plans into a tangible, bankable reality,” he said.
The UBA chief reiterated the bank’s readiness to support ongoing and future government-led infrastructure and development initiatives, noting that sustained economic growth depends on strong partnerships between the public and private sectors.
During the meeting, Alawuba also expressed appreciation to the Beninese government for allocating land to UBA Benin as compensation for its former main branch, which had been acquired for public utility use.
He described the gesture as a strong signal of confidence in the bank’s long-term commitment to the country.
> “The government’s gesture is a powerful symbol of trust and mutual respect, and it signals a partnership that we look forward to,” he said. “Most importantly, we are eager to build a new landmark on that foundation, and one that will facilitate even greater service to the Beninese people.”
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Alawuba was accompanied on the visit by the CEO of UBA Africa, Sarata Koné Thiam, while Minister Wadagni was joined by the Director of the Debt Department, Hugues Oscar Lokossou.
Beyond government engagements, the UBA GMD used the visit to deepen relationships with key corporate clients, holding strategic discussions with leading firms such as Fludor and AKRAKE. The meetings focused on evolving financing needs, risk management, and opportunities for closer collaboration as the companies expand operations.
Addressing the clients, Alawuba acknowledged their continued confidence in the bank and positioned UBA as a reliable partner for industrial and commercial growth.
> “We are equally grateful for the steadfast trust you place in UBA as your financial partner, and this trust is not something we take for granted; it is the foundation upon which we build deeper, more supportive collaborations,” he said.
He assured them that the bank would remain responsive and solutions-driven in addressing their concerns.
> “All your requests and concerns will continue to receive our immediate and focused attention. My directive to the team is clear: we will expedite every necessary action to structure a solution that effectively hedges your risk and supports the fluidity of your operations. UBA is here to facilitate your business momentum,” Alawuba added.
The visit concluded with a town hall meeting with staff of UBA Benin at the Novotel Hotel, where Alawuba commended employees for their performance, reinforced the bank’s growth vision, and urged them to sustain high standards as UBA deepens its footprint in the Beninese market.
