Israel Ogbue, former chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) and father of Tony Elumelu’s wife, Awele is dead.
He was aged 99.
A statement by the bank on Thursday said Ogbue passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, discipline and service across Nigeria’s public and private sectors.
Born on February 18, 1927, in Onicha-Olona, Delta State, Ogbue began his professional life in the federal civil service before travelling to the United Kingdom for further studies.
The statement added that “he later built a distinguished career at the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (NICON), rising to senior management and serving with distinction until his retirement in 1988.
“After retiring from NICON, he was appointed to the boards of several major institutions, culminating in his appointment to the UBA Board in 2005 as a Non-Executive Director.
“In 2011, he became chairman of the bank, a position he held until 2013. During his tenure, he guided the bank through a key phase of its transformation, reinforcing strong corporate governance, accountability and sustainable growth.
“He is a revered boardroom statesman and distinguished administrator” whose leadership helped shape UBA’s culture and strategic direction.
“Away from his corporate roles, Ogbue was a devoted family patriarch. He was known for his humility, deep faith and mentorship, often advising young people to balance ambition with moderation, remain steadfast in adversity and trust in God.
“UBA Group extends its heartfelt condolences to his children, grandchildren, extended family, friends and associates. We celebrate a remarkable life of service, wisdom and impact, and we honour his invaluable contributions to UBA and to Nigeria’s corporate landscape.”
“Chief Ogbue is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
“Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course,” the statement noted.
