UBA to unveil whitepaper on Africa’s financial infrastructure

United Bank for Africa Plc is set to launch its landmark whitepaper on powering the continent’s development through its financial ecosystem.

According to a statement from the bank on Wednesday, the whitepaper, titled ‘Banking on Africa’s Future: Unlocking Capital and Partnerships for Sustainable Growth’, will be unveiled on the sidelines of the ongoing World Bank-International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in October 2025 in Washington, D.C.

UBA said that the document presents a comprehensive and actionable framework for unlocking Africa’s vast economic potential, providing analysis of critical growth pillars including trade facilitation, infrastructure development, digital innovation, climate finance, and inclusive growth, while showcasing strategies for leveraging domestic capital alongside strategic global partnerships to access the continent’s $3.4tn single market potential under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

UBA’s Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, who emphasised the strategic importance of this whitepaper, explained that over the past few years, the bank has become an active leader in conversations and activities that drive tangible investments to the continent

“UBA is shifting Africa’s development agenda from talk to action. With this whitepaper, we are championing initiatives that convert strategic dialogue into bankable projects and direct investments. Our commitment to execute these plans for the benefit of the continent and its people cannot be overemphasised. We are committed partners in Africa’s development and sustainability and will continue to provide the capital, the platform, and the network needed to transform Africa’s vast potential into economic growth,” Elumelu said.

The UBA Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, remarked on the white paper’s significance, highlighting the urgent need for private sector leadership.

“This whitepaper is a call to action and a statement of our capability,” Alawuba said. “It underlines our unique position in facilitating the partnerships and capital flows required to finance Africa’s future, providing the blueprint for action. The document delivers critical insights at a defining moment for Africa’s financial infrastructure.”

United Bank for Africa operates in 20 African countries and the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France, and the United Arab Emirates.