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United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has added another milestone to its growing list of achievements after emerging as Nigeria’s Best Bank for Retail and Nigeria’s Best Bank for ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) at the prestigious 2026 Euromoney Awards for Excellence.
The awards, presented at The Peninsula London in the United Kingdom, celebrate financial institutions that have distinguished themselves through exceptional performance, innovation, customer service and sustainable business practices.The double recognition highlights UBA’s continued efforts to deepen financial inclusion while championing sustainable banking across Africa.
According to Euromoney, the bank earned the ESG award for its strong commitment to environmental sustainability and social impact. Among the initiatives cited were the introduction of a Green Financing Facility designed to help households and businesses adopt renewable energy solutions, a ₦5 billion financing programme launched in partnership with the Bank of Industry to support women-owned businesses, and UBA’s long-term target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The publication also acknowledged the bank’s investment in sustainability within its operations, including the installation of solar-powered energy systems across 50 branches and extensive ESG training programmes that have equipped more than 16,000 employees across the Group.
For the retail banking award, Euromoney recognised UBA’s impressive growth in customer reach and financial performance. By the end of 2025, the bank had expanded its customer base to more than 37 million, while retail banking revenue surged to ₦429.5 billion, representing more than a fourfold increase.
The publication further praised UBA’s drive for digital innovation, especially the advancement of its AI-powered chatbot, LEO, which became Africa’s first artificial intelligence banking platform capable of facilitating cross-border money transfers in local currencies through the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS).
Reacting to the recognition, UBA’s Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, described the awards as proof that commercial success and sustainable banking can go hand in hand.
He said the recognition reflects the bank’s commitment to creating lasting value for customers while contributing meaningfully to Africa’s development.
According to him, UBA remains focused on financing Africa’s future, supporting businesses and communities, expanding financial inclusion and providing innovative banking solutions that improve lives. He dedicated the awards to the bank’s customers for their continued trust and to members of staff whose dedication has helped drive the institution’s vision.
Also speaking, UBA’s Group Head of Marketing, Brand and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, said the honours reaffirm the bank’s unwavering commitment to placing customers at the heart of its operations.
She noted that every innovation, investment and financial solution introduced by the bank is designed to deliver real value to customers. From empowering entrepreneurs through access to finance to expanding digital payment solutions, promoting clean energy financing and increasing financial inclusion across Africa, she said UBA remains committed to making a meaningful impact.
She added that the bank is honoured to have its efforts recognised by one of the world’s most respected financial publications.
Operating in 20 African countries, as well as the United Kingdom, the United States, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA continues to strengthen its reputation as Africa’s Global Bank, serving more than 45 million customers through technology-driven banking solutions, world-class financial services and a strong commitment to sustainable development.
