UBA championed a strategic business collaborations at latest edition of business series.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Africa’s leading financial institution, has once again reaffirmed its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs through its signature UBA Business Series—an initiative designed to equip business owners with the tools to scale and thrive in today’s evolving marketplace.
The latest edition, held on Thursday at UBA House, Marina, Lagos, brought together a vibrant mix of entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and business enthusiasts across Africa to explore the theme: “Stronger Together: Building Powerful Businesses through Partnerships.” The session was also streamed live to a pan-African audience, further emphasizing UBA’s cross-border commitment to enterprise growth.
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The panel featured notable industry experts including fashion icon Mai Atafo, beauty entrepreneur Dabota Lawson, real estate developer Wale Ayilara, and media trailblazer Peace Hyde. Together, they unpacked the strategic importance of value-aligned partnerships, shared vision, and trust in fostering long-term success for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Sharing her entrepreneurial journey, Dabota Lawson recounted how her brand transitioned from visibility-focused marketing to intentional partnerships. “I used to chase social media exposure by sending products to influencers. But visibility didn’t translate to sales,” she noted. “It was only when I began building value-based relationships—with labs, logistics providers, and professionals who aligned with my vision—that my business gained traction.”
Peace Hyde, a journalist and media entrepreneur, emphasized the importance of choosing partners based on shared goals, not just capital. “It’s not always about money. Sometimes, access to the right audience or platform can propel your business even further. Align with those who believe in your mission—not just your potential.”
Real estate entrepreneur Wale Ayilara shared how he started with limited resources, co-owning properties with classmates to address student housing shortages. “Begin with what you have,” he advised. “Real estate is essential, but you must study the landscape, be aware of risks, and scale smartly.”
For fashion designer Mai Atafo, the key to business longevity lies in clarity and due diligence. “Set boundaries from the start. Know whether you’re pursuing art or profit, and never stop researching. Always verify—assume nothing until proven.”
UBA’s Group Head of Retail and Digital Banking, Shamsideen Fashola, described the session as a vital opportunity for knowledge exchange. “At UBA, we are deeply committed to supporting MSMEs. The Business Series is one of our many platforms to ensure entrepreneurs are well-equipped to navigate challenges and harness opportunities in today’s business environment.”
Echoing this sentiment, Group Head of Corporate and Marketing Communications, Alero Ladipo, expressed appreciation to the panelists and urged participants to turn insights into action. “It’s not just about the inspiration—it’s about taking these lessons, researching further, and applying them meaningfully.”
As one of Africa’s foremost financial institutions, UBA continues to lead the charge in business education and financial inclusion. With a presence in 20 African countries and key global markets including the UK, US, UAE, and France, the bank serves over 45 million customers worldwide, driving impact through innovation, partnerships, and strategic support for entrepreneurs across the continent.
