UBA Unveils UNILAG Innovation Hub launched as United Bank for Africa opens a renovated facility and funds research collaboration at the University of Lagos

United Bank for Africa Plc has inaugurated a renovated four-storey business office and innovation hub at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), strengthening its long-standing partnership with the academic institution in Lagos, Nigeria.

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The new facility is expected to serve more than 80,000 customers within the university community, offering expanded banking services alongside innovation-driven support for students and staff.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, UBA Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, described the project as a landmark development that reflects the growing collaboration between the financial sector and higher education in Nigeria.

Alawuba noted that UBA established its first branch at UNILAG in 1969, adding that the new development represents a continuation of a decades-long relationship between both institutions.

He emphasised that the partnership would extend beyond traditional banking services into education and innovation support.

The bank also announced a N60 million donation towards the UBA Professorial Chair in Finance Research at UNILAG, aimed at strengthening academic research and promoting industry-based collaboration.

UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, described the project as a powerful example of private sector involvement in educational development, stating that the initiative goes beyond infrastructure and represents meaningful institutional cooperation.

Professor Adedoyin Lawal, who holds the UBA Professorial Chair in Finance, said the programme would focus on research, mentoring, curriculum development and fintech-driven learning.

He added that efforts had already begun to integrate financial technology courses across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

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The development is expected to deepen industry-academic ties and equip students with practical skills aligned with evolving financial and technological trends.