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President Bola Tinubu has expressed his condolences following the death of former Chairman of the United Bank for Africa(UBA), Chief Israel Ogbue, who passed away at the age of 99.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his condolences to the late banker’s family, friends and associates, acknowledging his contributions to Nigeria’s financial and public sectors.
The statement noted that Ogbue built a distinguished career spanning the Federal Civil Service, the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (NICON), and NAL Merchant Bank.
It added that he served as a non-executive director at UBA from 2005 before being appointed chairman in 2011, a role he held until 2013.
Tinubu was quoted as recognising Ogbue’s leadership qualities, describing his tenure as marked by dignity, foresight and principled guidance during a critical phase in the bank’s growth and transformation.
The President also stated Ogbue’s family ties, noting that he was the father of Dr Awele Elumelu, wife of UBA Group Chairman Tony Elumelu, and extended his sympathies to both the Elumelu family and the wider UBA community.
He further acknowledged tributes pouring in for the late elder statesman, saying he was widely regarded as a devoted family man, committed public servant and person of strong faith, who lived a life of humility and service to society.
“The President extends his condolences to the Elumelu family and the extended family members over this loss. He also sympathises with UBA’s Board, management, and staff.
“President Tinubu acknowledges the numerous testimonies praising the exemplary life and times of the late UBA Chairman, who was a devoted family man, committed public servant, and a Christian.
“He lived humbly, dedicating his time, treasures, and experience to serving the church, the poor, the vulnerable, and his community,” it stated.”
Tinubu prayed for the repose of his soul, asking God to grant comfort to his family.
Ogbue died peacefully on his 99th birthday. Born in Onicha-Olona, Delta State, in 1927, he enjoyed a career spanning over six decades, rising through the ranks in public service before transitioning into corporate leadership.
He retired from NICON in 1988 after reaching senior management positions and later served on the boards of several institutions. At UBA, he was credited with strengthening corporate governance and providing strategic direction during a pivotal period in the bank’s evolution.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ogbue was remembered as a mentor, patriarch and deeply religious man, survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
