The engagement, which took place on January 28, 2026, formed part of UBA’s broader efforts to deepen partnerships with governments, corporates and stakeholders across its African footprint. The one-day visit focused on strengthening collaboration with Benin’s public sector, reinforcing relationships with key corporate clients, and engaging directly with the bank’s local workforce.
During a courtesy meeting with Benin’s Senior Minister of Finance, Economy and Cooperation, Romuald Wadagni, Alawuba reaffirmed UBA’s role as a long-term partner in the country’s development agenda. He highlighted the bank’s ongoing and planned support for transformative infrastructure and development projects aligned with the government’s strategic priorities.
According to him, UBA’s operations in Benin are anchored on partnership rather than transactional presence, with the bank positioned as a catalyst for converting national development plans into viable, bankable projects capable of driving sustainable growth.
The UBA chief also expressed appreciation to the Beninese government for its continued cooperation, particularly the allocation of land to UBA Benin as compensation for the bank’s former main branch, which was acquired for public use. He described the gesture as a strong signal of mutual trust and a foundation for a deeper, long-term partnership, noting that the bank intends to develop a new landmark facility that will enhance service delivery to customers in the country.
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 engagement, the visit also featured strategic meetings with key corporate clients, including Fludor and AKRAKE. Discussions centred on evolving financial needs, risk management and opportunities for collaboration to support industrial expansion and operational efficiency.
In his interactions with the clients, Alawuba expressed gratitude for their continued trust in UBA, describing it as the cornerstone of deeper and more supportive partnerships. He assured them of the bank’s commitment to providing tailored financial solutions, timely responses and proactive support aimed at hedging risks and sustaining business momentum.
The visit concluded with a Town Hall meeting with staff of UBA Benin at the Novotel Hotel, where Alawuba commended the team’s performance, celebrated recent achievements and reinforced the bank’s vision and growth ambitions in the country. The session also served to boost staff morale and align the workforce with UBA’s strategic objectives across the region.