The Nigerian banking and corporate community is mourning the loss of Chief Israel C. Ogbue, the former Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 99.

In an official statement released by the Board of Directors, Management, and Staff of UBA, the bank described the late Chief Ogbue as a revered boardroom statesman whose career spanned over sixty years of dedicated service across both the public and private sectors.

Born on February 18, 1927, in Onicha-Olona, Delta State, Chief Ogbue’s professional trajectory began in the Federal Civil Service. His quest for excellence took him to the United Kingdom for further studies, eventually leading to a distinguished career at the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (NICON).

He retired from NICON in 1988 after rising through the senior management ranks, earning a reputation for meticulous administration.

His transition to the banking sector marked a significant chapter in Nigeria’s financial history.

Chief Ogbue joined the UBA Board in 2005 as a Non-Executive Director. By 2011, his strategic foresight led to his appointment as Chairman of the Board, a position he held until his retirement in 2013.

During his leadership at UBA, Chief Ogbue was credited with reinforcing a culture of accountability and long-term sustainability.

The bank noted that his tenure was a defining period in its transformation, during which he championed the principles of strong corporate governance that remain central to the institution’s operations today.

Beyond the boardroom, Chief Ogbue was a significant figure within a prominent Nigerian lineage.

He was the father of Dr. Awele Elumelu and the father-in-law of the current Group Chairman of UBA, Tony Elumelu.

The Bank’s statement highlighted Chief Ogbue’s personal character, describing him as a man of deep faith and humility. Often asked about his longevity, he was known to advise younger generations to balance their ambitions with moderation and to remain steadfast in the face of adversity.

“We celebrate a remarkable life of service, wisdom, and impact, and we honour his invaluable contributions to UBA and to Nigeria’s corporate landscape,” the Bank stated.

Chief Ogbue is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. While the family has not yet released specific details, they have indicated that funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.