United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has announced the death of its former Board Chairman, Chief Israel C. Ogbue, who passed away peacefully on Thursday at the age of 99.
In a statement issued by the bank, the Board of Directors, Management, and Staff expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the respected boardroom veteran and administrator. UBA described Chief Ogbue as a revered statesman who devoted more than six decades of his life to service across Nigeria’s public and private sectors, leaving behind a lasting legacy of integrity, discipline, and institutional excellence.
Born on February 18, 1927, in Onicha-Olona, Delta State, Chief Ogbue began his professional journey in the Federal Civil Service. He later travelled to the United Kingdom for further studies before returning to Nigeria to build a distinguished career in the insurance industry. He rose through the ranks at the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (NICON), where he served with distinction until his retirement in 1988.
Renowned for his sound judgment and commitment to corporate governance, Chief Ogbue was appointed to the boards of several prominent institutions, including UBA. He joined the bank’s Board in 2005 as a Non-Executive Director and was named Chairman in 2011. He held the position until 2013, a period UBA said was marked by dignified leadership and strategic foresight, particularly during a transformative phase in the bank’s growth.
Beyond his corporate accomplishments, Chief Ogbue was widely respected as a family patriarch and mentor. He was the father of Dr. Awele Elumelu and father-in-law to UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu.
Known for his humility and deep faith, he often attributed his long life to divine grace and urged younger generations to pursue ambition with moderation and steadfastness. Chief Ogbue is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
