United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has reaffirmed its dedication to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as it sponsors the Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF) for the seventh year running.
The 2025 edition of the trade fair, organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), launched on Friday at Tafawa Balewa Square in Onikan, Lagos. The 10-day event, running until November 17, is expected to draw thousands of exhibitors, investors, and visitors from Nigeria and around the world.
As part of its customer-focused approach, UBA will operate a full-service branch at the fairground, offering attendees convenient banking services. Account holders conducting any transaction, including deposits, withdrawals, or transfers, at this special branch will automatically qualify for a “Lucky Dip” draw with opportunities to win premium prizes.
During the opening ceremony, Babatunde Ajayi, UBA’s Head of SME Banking, emphasised the bank’s long-term partnership with LCCI and its alignment with UBA’s mission to mobilise capital and support businesses across all scales.
“Our consistent support for the LITF and our strategic initiatives around the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) are interconnected,” Ajayi explained. “They reflect our commitment to building the financial infrastructure needed to empower African businesses and facilitate seamless cross-border trade.”
Alero Ladipo, UBA’s Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, linked the bank’s participation to its broader vision for Africa’s economic growth, as outlined in a recent white paper targeting a $4 trillion continental economy.
“The LITF is a strategic platform where we’re turning our ambitious goals into concrete action,” Ladipo said. “Our roadmap to a $4 trillion African economy relies on practical engagements like this, platforms that connect businesses, drive commerce, and transform vision into reality for millions.”
Ladipo added that through strategic partnerships, digital innovation, and cross-border trade solutions, UBA aims to foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth, benefiting corporations, SMEs, and entrepreneurs throughout Africa.
UBA operates across 20 African countries, as well as in the United Kingdom, United States, France, and United Arab Emirates. With 25,000 employees and over 45 million customers worldwide, the bank provides comprehensive retail, commercial, and institutional banking services while advancing financial inclusion through cutting-edge technology.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.