United Bank for Africa (UBA), weekend, said it is scaling up its electronic banking channels in a bid to bolster financial inclusion. Adeyinka Adedeji, divisional head, E-Banking (UBA) told journalists that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) cashless inintiative has been hugely successful , stressing that there is an increased awarness amongst the generality of the population on the benefits of adopting electronic payments. He said UBA, for instance, had recorded transactions worth N95 billion via Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), approximately N8 billion worth of transactions on U-mobile (mobile banking) and N10 billion on internet banking monthly in 2013 alone.
According to him, the financial institution has stepped up investments in expanding electronic channels to meet the constantly rising needs of bank customers.
Adedeji added that the UBA’s innovative e-Channels have accorded the customers triple gains of financial control, convenience and security. “We have seen tremendous changes in attitude of our customers since the commencement of cashless policy which started in Lagos and later six other States and expected to begin to function in other States by the end of the year. Due to that and the innovative culture embraced by UBA we have rolled out a number of channels on U-mobile, U-Direct, internet banking and redefined card issuance and usage,” he said.
Adedeji added that, with U-Direct, UBA’s Online Banking Service, customers can access many banking services and carry on with their banking activities without inhibitions, “that is, everywhere, you have access to the internet from a computer, tablet or Smartphone at anytime,” he explained. Explaining the U-Mobile as, “Robust mobile banking platform which only requires a customer has an account (savings or current) or Prepaid Card with UBA Plc and a Java Enabled Mobile Phone. If offers the financial transactions freedom, especially at the international level. We are out to ensure none of our customers experiences stress or is stranded while on holiday or business trips”.
On his part, Obinna Umo, head, Debit & Credit Card Unit, said, apart from UBA setting up ATM galleries closer to the customers, it has enhanced individual-customer banking experience and apt in promoting central Bank of Nigeria (CBN’s) cashless policy thrust. On corporate level, the leading African bank had initiated and implemented U-Collect, U-Schools, U-Malls, U-Payroll and other channels for organisational seamless cash transactions experience.
UBA, with strong retail franchise reaching close to 10 million customers, over 700 business offices, in 19 countries in Africa, has continued to enjoy international reputation for excellence as a result of its commitment to constant innovation.
