After receiving issuance of approval in principle within 8 months, the United Bank of Africa (UBA) has finally received a full banking license to operate as a Bank in Sierra Leone with the aim of contributing their quota in modernizing the financial sector and the economy of the country in general.
According to the Managing Director of UBA bank Abdulrahman Yinusa in presenting their certificate to the Nigerian High Commissioner Gudson Echegile yesterday they are concerned about broadening the banking system of the people and that they believe in bringing world class services to all markets in which they operate and also to make positive contributions to their respective economies.
The MD further said that with an excess of $15 billion and over 6 million customers in Uganda, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroon and Liberia “we will emerge as the leading and dominate financial services institution in Sierra Leone.”
With a staff of about 60 of which 95% are Sierra Leoneans, and being the 11th bank in the country the MD said that they will ensure that the economy of the country is taken to another level.
Mr Yinusa revealed that apart from the traditional banking services, UBA will soon unveil a portfolio of banking which includes mobile phone and internet banking and visa/master card for the use on ATMs for those traveling outside Sierra Leone.
Speaking on their mission the MD disclosed “we are on a mission to be the role model for African business by creating superior value for all stakeholders, abiding by the utmost professional and ethical standards and building an enduring institution.”
He continued “we are determined to be an African success story by being innovative and partnering with relevant community development projects. At UBA we are more than just a bank; we therefore seek the full backing and support from all parties with an interest in Sierra Leone and urge them to enter a long term partnership with us to bring about positive change.”
In receiving the staff of the bank the Nigerian High Commissioner said that he was happy for the initiative and that he hopes that the bank makes a remarkable mark in the banking sector of the country.Commissioner Echegile said that he is more impressed with the internet and mobile banking system which the bank will be doing.
By Betty Milton
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