UBA Delivers 21% Growth in Profit, 21.7% Return on Average Equity; Declares N0.20 Interim Dividend:

Kennedy Uzoka, GMD UBA Group

Tony Elumelu, Group Chairman 

Africa’s leading financial institution, United Bank for Africa Plc has announced its audited half year financial results for the period ended June 2019, showing impressive growth across key performance indices as well as a significant contribution from its African subsidiaries.

In spite of the increasingly unpredictable environment witnessed in some of its countries of operations, the pan African financial institution delivered double digit growth in its profit before tax as it rose by 21 per cent to N70.3bn for the half year to June 2019, up from N58.1bn recorded in the similar period of 2018, just as the Profit after Tax also improved to N56.7 billion, a 29.6 percent growth compared to N43.8 billion achieved in the corresponding period of 2018. The profit for the first half of the year, translated to an annualised return on average equity of 21.7 per cent.

According to its results filed with the Nigerian Stock Exchange, UBA recorded a 14 percent year-on-year rise in top-line, with gross earnings of N293.7 billion, compared to N257.9 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2018. Analysts say that this result emphasises the capacity of the Group to deliver a strong performance through economic cycles in spite of the overall challenging business environment.

As at 30 June 2019, the Bank’s Total Assets grew by 4.8% crossing the N5 trillion mark to N5.10 trillion. Customer Deposits also rose by 4.8 per cent to N3.51 trillion, compared to N3.35 trillion as at December 2018. This growth trajectory underscores UBA’s market share gain, as it increasingly wins customers through its revitalized customer service culture coupled with innovative digital banking offerings. The bank’s Shareholders’ Funds remained strong at N542.5 billion, reflecting its strong capacity for internal capital generation.

In line with its culture of paying both interim and final cash dividend, the Board of Directors of UBA Plc declared an interim dividend of N0.20 per share for every ordinary share of N0.50 each held by its shareholders.

Commenting on the results, the Group Managing Director/CEO, United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), Mr. Kennedy Uzoka said: “I am pleased with the half performance of the Group, having delivered 14% growth in gross earnings and 21% growth in profit before tax. Despite the subdued yield environment in some of our large markets, we achieved a 9% growth in interest income and defended the net interest margin. We also achieved a 39% growth in our electronic banking revenues, as we broaden and deepened our digital banking play across Africa. Revenues from our remittance and funds transfer businesses grew 69% and 53% respectively. All these factors attest to the efficacy of our strategies and the resilience of our business model.”

He further stated “I am very optimistic that the ongoing Group-wide transformation program, will in the quarters ahead, enable the Bank deliver substantial operational efficiencies and best-in-class customer service, which will ultimately boost earnings. We sustained our asset quality with the NPL ratio down to 5.62%, from 6.45% as at 2018FY. We will continue to adopt best practice standards to grow and manage the portfolio in the quarters ahead.”

Also speaking on UBA’s results, the Group CFO, Ugo Nwaghodoh said; “We had a strong start in the year given the prevailing macroeconomic environment across our various markets.  There is better diversification in profit contribution as our banking subsidiaries across Africa contributed 38% of the profit before tax, whilst our recently repositioned UK business contributed 4%. We expect this dispersion to continue, as the subsidiaries consolidate on their share of the various markets.”

“I am particularly delighted that the key ratios are trending in the right direction. The net interest margin is trending upwards and will continue to improve as we responsibly grow the risk asset portfolio and realign the funding mix to lower our cost of funds. The cost-to-income ratio trended down to 60% with our focus on balance sheet and operational efficiencies which should enable us deliver our medium term CIR target. Capital adequacy ratio increased to 28% from 23.6% in December 2018, providing  a very strong buffer for asset growth,” he stated.

United Bank for Africa, Africa’s global bank, was founded 70 years ago in Nigeria and today, operates in 20 African countries and in the United Kingdom, the USA and with presence in France. UBA serves over 17 million customers across the globe with more than 1000 branches and touch points. In 2018, the bank received the award of Africa’s Best Digital Bank by the Banker’s magazine.

UBA Group's AWESOME 70TH ANNIVERSARY & CEO AWARD 2019

Ooni of Ife, Jide Sanwoolu, Tony Elumelu, Sarkin Shanum of Kano, Alhaji Shehu Mohammed, representing Emir of Kano & Jim Ovia 

Maiden Ibru

Ooni of Ife, Tony and Dr. Mrs Awele  Elumelu 

Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu & Aremo Segun Osoba

Tiwa Savage performing

Mo Abudu, Ruth Osime & Timi Alaibe 

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde & Ojy Okpe with other guests

Ronke Ademiluyi & Bola Awosika

Truth be told, the UBA Group sure knows how to organise a party. So amongst all the banks or better still financial institutions in Nigeria they need to get an award or even awards for always organizing the best parties, events, occasions ever.

With billionaire banker cum businessman, 'Tony Elumelu' as the 'Group Executive Chairman' and with Kennedy Uzoka, one of the highest paid CEOs in Nigeria, whose annual take home is N139 Million Naira as the Group CEO/GMD, the bank seem to be in good hands and great health. So at least once every year, after working so hard through the financial year, there comes that period, that time that's set apart by the Pan African financial institution, which has one of the most impressive spread across the country and outside, and a financial institution that's one of the top 10 biggest banks in Nigeria, to let off steam and those that makes all the magic happen to be well patted on their backs or shoulders in a convivial atmosphere.

The annual event, always packs a whole lot of major punch. With top entertainment brought in to add good vibe, first class guests invited mixing with the top staff members and other members of the group. It is always one of those events to look forward to yearly. So this 2019 edition didn't disappoint at all in all ramifications. Eko Hotel Convention Centre was the right spot picked as the venue. And the place was packed out as expected.

At least, we saw 2 of the incoming new Governors, though they are still Governor elects for now, till they are sworn in. Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu of Lagos and Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun state were very present. They are both gradually becoming the most visible Governor elects in Nigeria right now. 3 of the royal fathers in the house that came were none less than his imperial majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi Ojaja II, the Ooni Adimula of Ile-Ife, his royal majesty, Oba Rilwan Osuolale Akiolu, the Oba of Lagos and his royal majesty and a Northern royal father we couldn't readily identify.

Some of the other important guests seen were none other than the billionaire Executive Chairman of the biggest bank in Nigeria, Zenith Bank in the person of Mr. Jim Ovia, former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Sir Emeka Anyaoku, Mrs Maiden Ibru, Pastor Tunde Bakare of the Latter Rain Assembly, Bashorun Dele Momodu Zof Ovation Group, Fidelity Bank MD/CEO, Nnamdi Okonkwo, Nova Merchant Bank, Executive Chairman, Phillip Oduoza, former 1st lady, Onari Duke, top Nigerian actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde and very many more.

Entertainment was provided by such power house musicians and entertainers like Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Phyno, Olamide & Patoranking.

More incredible pictures after the break.

Applications Open for the 2018 TEF Entrepreneurship Forum Travel Fellowship for African Journalists

The Tony Elumelu Foundation, Africa’s leading entrepreneurship-focused philanthropy, has announced a call for entries for the 2018 TEF Entrepreneurship Forum Travel Fellowship for African journalists.

The Travel Fellowship will provide financial aid to journalists and photojournalists affiliated with African national or global media houses to attend the 2018 Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Forum happening on the 25^th of October 2018 in Lagos, Nigeria. The Travel Fellowship covers travel and accommodation, while affording journalists the opportunity to interact with participants, guests, key public and private representatives, and leading speakers at the TEF Entrepreneurship Forum. 

The TEF Entrepreneurship Forum 2018 is the largest gathering of African entrepreneurs and the broader entrepreneurship ecosystem. It will unite over 5,000 entrepreneurs, global investors, leaders from the African public and private sectors and development organisations, presenting the unique opportunity to generate ideas, forge networks and bring policymakers and the private sector together, in a spirit of robust debate and interaction. The 2018 cohort from the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme, as well as mentors and partners, will be present, as the culmination of their intensive twelve-week induction.

This year’s Forum will include an interactive session with President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya and President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, moderated by TEF Founder, Tony O. Elumelu.

It will also feature the launch ofTEFConnect, the world’s largest digital platform for African entrepreneurs, dedicated to connecting African entrepreneurs and the entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Interested journalists are encouraged to apply HERE.

Eligibility

• Working Journalists affiliated with African national or global media houses
• Documented support provided from Supervisor/media outlet

Deadline: Midnight, September 12, 2018.

WHEN BILLIONAIRE BANKER & CHAIRMAN OF UBA TONY ELUMELU & FAMILY HOSTED THE CREME OF THE SOCIETY TO THEIR MOM'S 90TH BIRTHDAY

Tony Elumelu & his mom

With family, children and grand children 

Mama with Mo Abudu

Elated mama surrounded by family and friends of the family. 

With King Ebitimi Banigo and fellow bank chairman-Jim Ovia

Mama, Chief Mrs. Susan N. Elumelu, who is the 'Adadionchanma of Onicha Ugbo Kingdom in Delta State just clocked what is considered a ripe old age, which is 90. And to celebrate the nonagerian matriarch of the Elumelu family, the kids 5 of them-Pastor Peter Elumelu, Tony Elumelu, Ndudi Elumelu, Loretta and Agatha, especially led by the amiable billionaire chairman of UBA Group Plc, who is also the founder of Heirs Holdings and many other business concerns, Tony Elumelu, left no stone unturned, in their bid to celebrate to high heavens a woman that means the whole world to the family. Mama's 90th also coincided with one of her daughters'-Agatha's 50th birthday too. So it was a double pronged celebration.

Mama's title has to do with a celebration of beauty, elegance and womanhood and it is quite obvious that mama must have been a stunner par excellence in her younger years, as it's still very obvious even now. So she's must have been a beauty to behold in her community, hence the title "Adadiochanma'.

So the d-date was Saturday, August 25, 2018. And 2 venues of choice were the appointed gathering spots. First was the church, The Catholic Church of Assumption, Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos which was for prayers and thanksgiving, then thereafter was the mother of all receptions, which was at a usual suspect, Harbour Point on Wilmot Close, Victoria Island.

In attendance at the super high octane gathering were the creme de la creme of the society, the movers and shakers, many of those referred to as the pillars of high society and more, who are all friends, family members and associates of the Elumelu clan. From royalties to industrialists to Politicos to etc they were all in attendance.

Seen looking as handsome and as regal as ever was the Ooni Adimula Oduduwa himself, his imperial majesty, 'Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, the Ojaja II', another highly regarded king at the occasion was none other than the revered Oba of Lagos, Kabiyesi (HRM) Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu, so also was the former Chairman of All States Trust Bank and a former minister of the Federal Republic, who is now a King in his domain, in the person of King Ebitimi Banigo, who is the ruler of the Okpoama kingdom, he came in tow with his outstandingly gorgeous and adorable wife, the stylish Pelebo Banigo, there were billionaires like Alh. Aliko Dangote, Femi Otedola, Jim Ovia, Folorunsho Alakija, Bola Shagaya, Tunde Ayeni, the man who has made Rolls Royce seemingly common Dr. Bolu Akin-Olugbade. There were others like the Governor of Edo, his excellency, Godwin Obaseki, former Governor of Delta state and man of the people, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, Segun Awolowo, Otunba Adekunle and Erelu Ojuolape Ojora, diplomat extraordinaire Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former SG of the Commonwealth, the DG of the NTDC, Folly Coker, man of God, Pastor Tony Rapu of TPH, Ebony Life TV founder and CEO, Mo Abudu, This Day Style, Editor Ruth Osime, comics Basorge Tariah, AliBaba Atunyota, Phillips Oduoza, Kennedy Uzoka, super stylish Nkiru Anumudu, Dayo and Caroline Adeneye, Femi Gbajabiamila, Bola Atta, Skymit Motor boss, Tayo Ayeni, Wife if the Senate President, Mrs Toyin Saraki and very many others.

The venue was packed out and the entertainment provided as expected was top notch all the way with the deejay churning out hits after hits and everyone had a super great time.

More after the break.

Shareholders Commend Transcorp For Industry Leading Role In Improving Access to Electricity in Nigeria

Lagos, Nigeria – May 2, 2018 – Shareholders of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (Transcorp) strongly commended the Board and management for Transcorp’s impressive contribution to transforming the Nigerian power sector, through its power subsidiary, Transcorp Power. The commendations were received at the 12th Annual General Meeting of Transcorp, held on April 30th 2018, at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The shareholders were responding to Transcorp’s exceptional feat of increasing the available capacity of its power generation plant from 160MW, when acquired in 2013, to 701MW by November 2017, surpassing the demanding performance target of 670MW by August 2018, set for Transcorp by the Bureau for Public Enterprises in 2013.

Through its consistent performance, Transcorp has led the power industry in delivering a sustained increase in available and generated capacity in Nigeria, consistently leading the power generation sector in Nigeria, in terms of capacity and with an impeccable health and safety record. Transcorp continues to be the backbone for improved access to electricity across Nigeria, and this was emphasised by the National President, Association for the Advancement Rights Nigerian Shareholders, Dr. Faruk Umar, who expressed appreciation for the commendable performance of the company.

Transcorp’s President/CEO, Adim Jibunoh, who thanked the shareholders for their continued support, informed them that beyond the company’s power sector strategy, Transcorp is aggressively pursuing the conclusion of its $100m upgrade of the Transcorp Hilton Abuja hotel, with a target of July 2018 for completion, while plans have been concluded for the development of Transcorp Hilton hotels in Lagos and Port Harcourt.

Transcorp’s Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, CON, promised shareholders that the Board is committed more than ever before to ensure that Transcorp will continue to touch and transform lives. The Chairman informed shareholders of the Board’s commitment towards developing the company’s oil and gas assets, as well as optimizing the huge gas deposit in OPL 281, by constructing a 40 km gas pipeline for dedicated gas supply to Transcorp’s power plant at Ughelli. This, he noted, is part of the energy value-chain optimization strategy of Transcorp, which was directed at creating the leading infrastructure player in Nigeria, playing the dominant role in bridging Nigeria’s infrastructure and power deficits.  Mr Elumelu said, “Our corporate ambition is nothing less than the transformation of Nigeria’s power sector, which in turn is the critical enabler of Nigeria’s broader economic transformation.”

UBA Holds 2018 Chairman’s Forum, Seeks Strengthening of Corporate Governance across Board

Pan- African financial Institution, United Bank for Africa Plc, last thursday,  ended its annual Group Chairman’s Forum, a platform for group integration, re-strategising and knowledge sharing with the overall aim of puting the bank on firm standing to actualize its goals and targets for the financial year.

The theme of this year's forum was focused on three main areas:  ‘Efficient and effective communication across the group; Entrenchment of enduring corporate culture and corporate governance.

The meeting which was chaired by the Chairman, UBA Group, Mr. Tony Elumelu, had in attendance all the group chair persons from across Africa, Group board executive and non-executive directors and CEOs of each of the 20 subsidiaries of the bank’s group. The top executive echelon in the bank, including heads of units were also present to put heads together to develop key strategies aimed at building the bank’s brand and satisfying its customers.

Elumelu, whilst addressing participants during the forum, reminded them that putting the customers at the forefront and tailoring the activities of the bank in line with their demands remains the focal point of the bank, adding that imbibing the corporate governance culture is key to building an enduring financial institution.

A strong and institutionalized corporate governance, laden with excellence in customer service, according to Elumelu will drive more investment to the bank and thus allow it to contribute meaningfully to the development of the African economy.

He said, “As long term investors and Africa enthusiasts, we are committed to the markets in which we operate and to the wider African economy.  We will continue to work with credible partners and governments across Africa to identify and develop those critical growth poles required for the sustainable development of all African economies'.

“In line with this, we must inculcate a culture that enforces corporate governance, individual and corporate accountability, a high sense of urgency and a customer first orientation in getting things done. Responsiveness and accountability are key attributes of High Performing Organizations. We know that the culture of corporate governance is key and we intend to focus on this to ensure that our goals for the financial year are duly met,” Elumelu said

Also speaking at the 3rd Chairman’s Forum, the Group Managing Director, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, who emphasized the bank’s goals of Excellence, Enterprise and Execution, said that the business had to be more customer-focused than ever before, adding that the elements of effective and efficient communication could not be toyed with as they represent an embodiment of what the bank stands for at all times.

Participants at the Group Board Forum resolved to do all in their power to continue to position the bank as the leading Pan-African Bank across all key indices – brand equity, human capital, customer service and profitability, whilst also inculcating a culture of responsiveness at UBA, with zero tolerance for any regulatory infraction across all operations.

Speakers at the Forum included Director of Marketing Corporate Communication,  Bola Atta, Director of Human Capital Management, Patricia Aderibigbe; Head of Risk, Uche Ike and the Managing Partner of Angela Aneke Associates. The newly appointed Regional CEOs, Emeke Iweriebor, Amie Sow, Abiola Bawuah and Martin Che also presented on how they intend to achieve their strong objectives for this financial year. The forum ended on a very strong and positive note which witnessed all participants in an up beat mood

UBA Celebrates Africa, Honors Staff at 2018 CEO Awards

UBA Chairman Tony Elumwlu flanked by Femi Otedola & Aliko Dangote

Mr &  Mrs Tony Elumelu & Mr & Mrs Kennedy Uzoka 

It was a fun night of glamour and electrifying excitement as Pan African financial services group, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc once again gathered together a stunning audience from Across Africa at the 2018 edition of the UBA CEO Awards.

The event which was held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, Nigeria, was the talk of the town and trended all night as staff members, their clients and friends all let go and got totally immersed in the celebrations of the special evening.

The UBA CEO Awards remains one of the most sought after annual events in the Lagos entertainment calendar. in its 10th year since inception in 2008, the event keeps getting bigger and better.

The theme of the night, Celebrating Africa,  celebration by the pan-African Bank, of the continents rich history and culture. UBA’s foot print in 20 African countries and in London, Paris and New York allowed a culturally diverse audience which was on display at the event. The Bank was also promoting its core value of Enterprise, Excellence and Execution as staff members who had performed extra ordinarily during the year, were rewarded and celebrated throughout the evening.

The Chairman, UBA Plc, Mr. Tony Elumelu, who was at the event with his lovely wife Dr Awele, said as he was interviewed on the golden carpet, that the bank chose this day to reward staff who had worked hard to ensure that the company remains a leading financial institution on the continent.

"It is a time to reward dignity, hard work, and excellence in execution, and to show our multitude of staff globally that they are very much appreciated for their contributions.’ said Elumelu.

The GMD/CEO, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, who congratulated the recipients of the various awards in different categories, charged them to continue to work hard and exhale the core values of UBA. He re -iterated that the Customer is the employer and all staff must focus on ensuring that they are given excellent services always.

He said, “Every year, it is our tradition to appreciate our people who have put in their very best and gone far and beyond the call of duty to deliver excellent services to the bank and the customers by extension. As you may well know, UBA has promoted about 47 per cent of its staff within the last twelve months, and this is something that is very rare in our industry. It is a statement about our commitment to the employees'.

Continuing, Uzoka said, “We know that when you have been rewarded, you will be motivated to do more, so I encourage you all to put in your best and remain focused on satisfying the customers, which is the reason why we are here.”

In attendance were captains of industries, media moguls, Nollywood stars, Public servants and politicians including  President of Dangote Industries, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Forte Oil, Femi Otedola, President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande, Former Governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo and wife, Angela, Publisher of Ovation Magazine, Mr.  Dele Momodu, Majority Leader, House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, CEO, Ebony LifeTV Mo Abudu and some Nollywood stars, Richard Mofe Damijo, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, Omoni Oboli.

Also present to honour UBA at the event were Former Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State, Wale Edun, CEO, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Mr, Bismarck Rewane, CEO, Airtel, Segun Ogunsanya, Directors of UBA Plc, Ambassador Joe Keshi, Chief Kola Jamodu, Ambassador Adekunle Olumide, Mrs Rose Okwechime,  among many others

Great performances by A-list artists such as ‘science students’ crooner, Olamide, Flavor, Kiss Daniels, Styl Plus and Falz the bad guy as well rib-cracking comedy from Basketmouth ensured that staff and guests alike were kept off their seats as they each performed to the massive enjoyment of those present.

Ace TV Presenter, IK Osakioduwa and Ayo, were the compere of the event led the guests through a night of fun and laughter and of course lots to eat and drink.

Elumelu Opens Digital Economy for Africa Forum with World Bank President and LinkedIn CEO

Tony Elumelu

Chairman, Heirs Holdings and Founder, The Tony Elumelu Foundation, Tony O. Elumelu will join Jim Yong Kim, President, World Bank Group and Jeff Weiner, LinkedIn CEO at the opening debate of the ‘Digital Economy for Africa’ Forum in Washington, D.C organised by the World Bank Group.

The event, which will hold on April 19, 2018, at the World Bank Group Main complex, will also serve to launch the World Bank Group’s Digital Economy for Africa initiative in collaboration with the IFC as an important effort to realise Africa’s digital potential.

Follow Heirs Holdings on social media to join the real-time conversation.

WHEN AFRICA'S TOP FINANCIAL INSTITUTION UBA PREMIERED "BLACK PANTHER"!

GMD Kennedy Uzoka

Tony & Dr Awele Vivian Elumelu

Tony Elumelu & Omoni Oboli

So it's not only individuals that have been mesmerised by the magic of probably the highest grossing movie ever "Black Panther", even institutions are falling over themselves to identify with the film! One of such institutions is none other than one of Africa's biggest financial institutions, the UBA Group, where Heirs Holdings boss, the incomparable Tony Elumelu is the Executive Chairman.

The bank sponsored a premiere of the soar away movie very recently at the IMAX cinemas Lekki phase 1, where they did a total take over of all the cinemas for the day and it had all the happening crowd in attendance, who did their best to look their Africa's best in their outfits, following the theme of Kings and Queens.

Some of those in attendance at the premiere were the likes of Tony Elumelu and his gorgeous medical doctor wife, Dr. Awele Vivian Elumelu and their daughters, also there was the Group MD of UBA, Kennedy Udoka and his wife Lotanna, also there expectedly was the EbonyLife TV founder Mo Abudu, actress and film maker Omoni Oboli, Ebuka Obi Uchendu who was the night's host, Noble Igwe, Lala Akindoju, DMD UBA Group, Victor Osadolor, Eyinna Nwigwe, Ruth Osime, OC Ukeje, Michelle Dede and very many others.

More pictures after the break.

WHEN THE STARS SHONE DOWN AT THE WIVES ON STRIKE REVOLUTION PREMIERE!

....with Mo Abudu, Tonye Cole & guest

...with Alh. Lai Mohammed

Omoni Oboli

. ...with Susan Peters

Toyin Abraham & Omoni Oboli

Mr & Dr.Mrs Tony Elumelu & Omoni Oboli

Despite the stress occasioned due to the petrol scarcity issue, the stars and celebrities defied all odds to attend the premiere of the sequel to the "Wives on Strike" film produced by one of the biggest names in the industry, in the person of the gorgeous "Omoni Oboli".

This new installment is titled "Wives on Strike revolution", and the message it tries to pass across is focused on the ills of domestic violence, though the film is comedic in nature, it still had a social message it wanted to pass across. The first installment which had been very well received, was focused on the ills of "child marriage" and it was very well received too, which might have been the reason for this sequel.

Wives on strike revolution has a hilarious comedic slant that would appeal to all and sundry, whilst passing the message across so easily also too. It stars such wonderful thespians like the irrepressible Sola Sobowale, the very versatile Ufuoma McDermott, the hilarious Odunlade Kolade, the comedic genius Julius 'the genius' Agwu, Kenneth Okonkwo, Chioma Akpotha, Elvina Ibru, Toyin Abraham, Uche Jumbo Rodriguez, the ever funny Chigul, Saka and Omoni Oboli herself.

The roll call of those that attended the premiere was staggering, it was led by the Minister for Information, Tourism & Culture himself, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, billionaire chairman of UBA and chairman of Heirs Holdings Tony Elumelu and wife, Executive Director at Sahara Energy Tonye Cole, Biola Alabi, Ali Baba and Mary Akpobome, Moyo Lawal, Susan Peters, founder and MD of Ebony Life TV Mo Abudu, the super talented OC Ukeje and very many others.

The film was so good according to those that attended, that at the end it got a standing ovation.

Kudos to Omoni Oboli, casts and crew for a good job well done. Maybe this is the movie that would give "The Wedding Party 2 Destination Dubai" a major run for its money.

More after the break.

BILLIONAIRE BANKER TONY ELUMELU RESSURECTS AS THE KING OF POP- MICHAEL JACKSON

Tony & Dr. Elumelu

Day was Saturday, December 16, 2017. Event was the annual UBA end of the year/Xmas party. On the stage and the cynosure of all eyes was none other than banker extraordinaire, billionaire boss and chairman of Heirs Holdings, who also doubles as the Group Chairman of UBA Plc, Mr. Tony "MJ" ELUMELU. Party dress theme was disco era.

That he is a fan of the "king of pop, Micheal Jackson" is a known fact that's well celebrated, but that he could and would channel the man who used to be known as the king of the stage, the dance machine, the ultimate performer, the man idolised the world over for his singing and equally incomparable dancing ability was both a shock and at the same time hilarious to the marrow!

The normally very suave, and quite reserved top notch businessman on the day and at the event shed the toga of the reserved gentleman and instead wore his dancing and magical shoes ala MJ at one of his shows. Elumelu fully channeled MJ in his dressing and even performing on stage to the delight of all.

Just imagine that the 54 year old businessman and philanthropist, even wore the one handed bejewelled glove and even the hat, MJ sometimes wore for his performance which he would now throw away; not just that TE even did the crotch grabbing move very synonymous with the "stage god".

It was both fun and hilarious to the highest height. While Tony was the only one on stage at the beginning, others later joined him to reach the climax of the performance.

Kudos. If there was another job that the consummate banker could have excelled in and very well at that, it would have been entertainment. 

OUT & ABOUT AT THE UBA CEO'S AWARDS NIGHT 2014

UBA GMD/CEO PHILLIP ODUOZA & QUEEN DILLION

TONY & DR. AWELE ELUMELU & A GUEST

CELINE LOADER

PRISCA NDU & GUEST

The guests, the staff members and all that came for this night of excellence made sure they had their style game on. Many were dressed to the nines. It was particularly a night to relax and have fun and mix with the high and mighty. 


Many didn't disappoint on the style stake. The former MD, Tony Elumelu, still has that effortless mien around him, he always looks cool, collected & suave. The current MD, though brilliant like we have always heard, had nothing going for him style-wise. But that doesn't count anyways, ''na style we wan chop''. 

The event itself took place about 2 weeks ago, Saturday, February, 8, 2014 to be more precise. It was a well put together affair and it was also very well attended. 

The annual awards show was instituted by the former MD of the bank in 2008, in the person of the debonair, Tony Elumelu. The idea basically is to reward star performers of the banking institution, who had excelled beyond measure over the course of the last year in review, so the year in review here is 2013. 

It is always an event that all staff members of the bank always look forward to every year. Entertainment of the best possible kind is always provided. Though we had expected Rihanna to come, apparently the rumour was unfounded or they get an agreement sorted on time. That she didn't come didn't dampen or make the occasion less exciting. Enough world class excitement was still provided by the entertainers engaged by the bank, the likes of the Okoye brothers- P Square, Banky W, Tiwa Savage, UK based award winning Ghanaian artist ODG Fuse, all gave very good account of themselves.  The duo of super funny comedians Akpororo & Gordons were also in their element, cracking without care the bones of those at the event with their fantastic delivery. 

In his speech at the event, the GMD/CEO, Mr. Phillip Oduoza commended all for the hard-work and dedication to work. And reiterated the bank's focus on service delivery and excellence, also pointing out that the indices shows that the bank had done very well in the past year.  The award recipients were all given letters of commendations, plaques & cash rewards in appreciation of their dedication to excellence & the bank's growth.

We got pictures of the event for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy!!!

MORE PICTURES AFTER THE BREAK. PLS CLICK ON READ MORE BELOW