RismadarVoice Reporters, February 22, 2026
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of Chief Israel Ogbue, former Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), who passed away at the age of 99.
In a statement released on February 22, 2026, the President extended condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the late banking icon, as well as to the board, management, and staff of UBA.
Chief Ogbue had a distinguished career, spanning the Federal Civil Service, the National Insurance Corporation (NICON), and NAL Merchant Bank. He joined UBA as a non-executive director in 2005 and was appointed Chairman in 2011, serving on the board until 2013. During his tenure, he was widely praised for his principled leadership, strategic foresight, and guidance during a critical period in the bank’s transformation.
The late Chief Ogbue was also the father of Dr. Awele Elumelu, wife of UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu.
President Tinubu described Chief Ogbue as a devoted family man, committed public servant, dedicated Christian, noting that he lived humbly while dedicating his time, resources, and experience to serving the church, the poor, and his community.
He prayed that Almighty God would receive the soul of the departed patriarch, grant comfort to his family and loved ones.
