United Bank for Africa (UBA) has once again demonstrated its commitment to employee well-being, environmental sustainability, and community development through the latest edition of its “Jogging to Bond” initiative. The programme brought together thousands of staff members across the bank’s operations in 20 African countries for a day of fitness, teamwork, and community service.
This year’s event was even more special because it coincided with the 60th birthday of UBA’s Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba. Rather than marking the occasion with a private celebration, Alawuba chose to spend the day with employees, joining them in activities that promoted health, unity, and environmental responsibility.
One of the major highlights of the event was a large-scale environmental clean-up carried out at the same time in several African cities where UBA operates. Employees in locations including Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Dakar, and many others volunteered to clean streets and public spaces, showing the bank’s dedication to protecting the environment and supporting cleaner communities.
Speaking during the event, Alawuba said there was no better way to celebrate his birthday than by spending time with the people who contribute to the bank’s success every day. He noted that UBA’s greatest strength lies in its workforce, whose dedication and teamwork continue to drive the organisation forward across Africa.
He explained that the “Jogging to Bond” programme, themed “The Power Within U,” is more than just a fitness event. According to him, it encourages employees to stay healthy, build stronger relationships with colleagues, serve their communities, and take responsibility for protecting the environment.
Alawuba added that when employees exercise together, volunteer together, and work towards making their communities cleaner, they are also demonstrating the values that define UBA as a responsible organisation.
In Lagos, staff members participated in several wellness activities designed to promote healthy living. These included spinning bike sessions, fitness competitions, guided exercise programmes, and relaxation therapies. Wellness company Oriki provided massage and relaxation services, while iFitness organised workout sessions and offered special membership discounts to UBA employees.
The initiative also reflects UBA’s belief that business success should go hand in hand with making a positive impact on society. By combining employee engagement with community service, the bank continues to strengthen its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments while supporting sustainable development in the countries where it operates.
UBA’s Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, said the programme highlights the bank’s dedication to caring for its employees while encouraging them to make meaningful contributions to society. She explained that the initiative helps build a healthy workplace culture, strengthens teamwork, and supports environmental sustainability.
According to her, UBA remains committed to creating value not only for its employees but also for customers, shareholders, and the wider communities it serves.
As part of its long-term Employee Value Proposition and ESG strategy, UBA continues to introduce programmes that promote staff wellness, volunteerism, and environmental responsibility. Through initiatives such as “Jogging to Bond,” the bank reinforces its reputation as one of Africa’s leading financial institutions while contributing to a healthier, cleaner, and more sustainable future across the continent.
