The UBA Business Series empowers entrepreneurs with actionable strategies for building businesses that thrive amid challenges

[dropcap]B[/dropcap]uilding enduring businesses demands a blend of innovation, focus, and passion. This principle guided the latest edition of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Business Series, held on Thursday at the Tony Elumelu Amphitheatre, UBA House, Marina, Lagos.

Also read: UBA launches SME card to empower small businesses across Africa

Themed “Profit with Purpose, Business Continuity,” the event brought together industry leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss strategies for business resilience and sustainability in today’s challenging economy.

Prominent lawyer, award-winning filmmaker, and founder of Terra Kulture, Bolanle Austen-Peters, delivered the keynote address. She emphasised the importance of defining a clear purpose and establishing a robust business structure.

“I can never overemphasise the role that purpose plays in your business. Business owners must set clear goals and achievable targets. From day one, I implemented an organisational structure, complete with a legal framework, a board of directors, and administrative officers. This ensures people take your business seriously,” Austen-Peters said.

Dr James Asare-Adjei, CEO of Ghana’s Asadtek Group Limited, stressed the need for innovation and integrity. “Businesses must identify areas where they excel and consistently add value. Leverage market opportunities and maintain high standards,” he advised.

Celebrated multimedia personalities Frank Edoho and Toke Makinwa shared personal insights on business growth.

Edoho stressed the importance of passion: “Stick to your guns, learn from others, and use those lessons to improve your business.”

Toke Makinwa highlighted the value of focus and team building. “I stayed disciplined, maintained a positive attitude, and surrounded myself with team builders. These strategies are timeless,” she noted.

Princess Adeyinka Tekena, founder of Happy Coffee and a Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Grant recipient, attributed her 10-year success to tenacity and financial discipline.

“The $5,000 grant from TEF in 2015 laid the foundation for my business,” she explained.

UBA’s Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, commended participants for their insights.

She reaffirmed UBA’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs through capacity-building programmes. “At UBA, we’re not just about banking; we’re about helping our customers grow thriving businesses,” she said.

The UBA Business Series is a regular workshop aimed at equipping business owners with best practices to navigate challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

Also read: UBA launches SME card to empower small businesses across Africa

As one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, UBA serves over 45 million customers in 20 African countries, as well as in the United Kingdom, USA, France, and the UAE. With over 25,000 employees, UBA continues to drive financial inclusion and innovation across its operations.