Page 64 - LKM70

FEATURE
FOLUKE ABDUL-RASAQ
Non Executive Director, UBA Plc
As a Non-Executive Director, I do not engage in the day-to-day management of the organization, however I am involved in pol- icy-making and planning exercises. Drawing from my wealth of experience in the banking and financial sector, I give guidance and direction to the bank’s strategies especially with regards to the bank’s credit risk appetite and portfolio as well as the bank’s audit and governance policies. During my 8 years (2010-2018) as chair of the Credit Committee, the group NPL ratio was successfully reduced to 2% which is a significant KPI of the group.
Apart from the above, I have the responsibility of acting in the interest of the stakeholders and assisting in keeping the executive directors and the entire board accountable.
It is undeniable that hard work, commitment, and dedication have been a resounding factor in my progress, it is however pertinent to note that having a strong family support system has also helped me in excelling in a predominantly male dominated industry. Having a mentor who has been through the path I am treading to give guidance and encouragement also helped build confi- dence in my abilities. Being more result oriented and developing my capacity have helped in distinguishing my work and ultimately paved the way for my growth.
I would say yes, UBA is a gender friendly establishment compared to its peers. However, while there is always room for improvement, I am happy at the progress currently being made which is evi- denced by us being one of the banks in Nigeria with the most women on its board. Also the awareness shown by my male col- leagues about the need for equal representation for all genders across the bank is promising.
Watching UBA over the years as it has developed from a bank perceived as being for ‘the older generation”, synonymous with unfashionable service bouquets, uninspired service delivery and generally poor customer perception, to one driven by high tech innovations and a vibrant, youthful and welcoming work force not only inspires hope for the future but makes me confident that the bank will always remain on the frontier of innovative customer cen- tric banking. Looking into the future I hope to see UBA becoming part of our lives and touching the lives of people across Africa and beyond with fast, cutting edge banking solutions for all categories of individuals and businesses.
ANGELA ADEBAYO
Non Executive Director, UBA Plc
I am a member of the bank’s board of directors, and serve on 3 committees, FGPC, BAGC and BRMC. I have risen to the top of my career through hard work, integrity, and not relying on being a woman. In all things, remembering that a good name is worth far more than silver or gold.
In terms of gender equality, UBA is exemplary in this regard. They walk the talk. Compared to studies in the area reference recent LSE studies still recommend higher percentages of female partici- pation. I still state advisedly that UBA is doing well.
I wish UBA to continue to be the number 1 bank in Africa. The bank that automatically comes to mind when you mention banking in Africa. UBA at 70: keep on keeping on.
64 | The Lion King | Commemorative Edition | January - April 2019