President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Israel Ogbue, former chairman of United Bank for Africa, who died at the age of 99.
In a State House statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, issued Sunday, the President extended condolences to Ogbue’s family, friends, and professional associates, describing the late banking executive as a principled leader whose career spanned the Federal Civil Service, the National Insurance Corporation, and NAL Merchant Bank.
Tinubu noted that Ogbue served as a non-executive director of UBA from 2005 to 2011 before becoming chairman, a position he held until 2013.
According to the statement, Ogbue provided steady and strategic leadership during a crucial phase in the bank’s institutional development, earning respect across Nigeria’s financial sector for his discipline and foresight.
The President also sympathised with the family of Tony Elumelu, chairman of UBA Group, whose wife, Awele Elumelu, is the daughter of the late banker. He further commiserated with the bank’s board, management, and staff.
Tinubu described Ogbue as a devoted family man, committed public servant, and man of faith who dedicated his resources and experience to charitable causes, community development, and church service. He prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and for divine comfort for his loved ones.