Former UBA Chairman Israel Ogbue Dies at 99

Chief Israel C. Ogbue, former chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA), has passed away at the age of 99, the bank announced.

Chief Ogbue, a revered boardroom statesman and administrator, served on UBA’s board from 2005 and was appointed chairman in 2011, a role he held until his retirement in 2013. During his tenure, he was credited with providing principled leadership and reinforcing strong corporate governance and accountability at a pivotal time in the bank’s transformation.

“UBA Group extends its heartfelt condolences to his children, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and associates. We celebrate a remarkable life of service, wisdom, and impact, and we honour his invaluable contributions to UBA and to Nigeria’s corporate landscape,” the bank said in a statement on Wednesday.

Born on February 18, 1927, in Onicha-Olona, Delta State, Chief Ogbue’s professional journey began in the Federal Civil Service before he travelled to the United Kingdom for further studies.

At the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (NICON), where he served with distinction until his retirement in 1988, he advanced through the senior management ranks. He was later appointed to the boards of several prestigious organisations, including UBA, for his reputation in governance.

He joined the UBA Board in 2005 as a Non-Executive Director and was later appointed Chairman in 2011, a role he held with dignity and strategic foresight until his retirement in 2013.

During his tenure, he provided steady and principled leadership at a defining period in the Bank’s transformation, reinforcing a culture of strong corporate governance, accountability and long-term sustainability that continues to guide the institution today.

Ogbue is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was the father of Dr. Mrs. Awele Elumelu, chairman of Transcorp Hotels, and father-in-law to Mr. Tony Elumelu, UBA Group Chairman.

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.