BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, FEBRUARY 07, 2026 | 12:16 PM
Oliver Alawuba, group managing director and chief executive officer of United Bank for Africa Plc, has urged leaders in the South-East to prioritise security, infrastructure, and bankable projects to unlock regional development under the South-East Vision 2050.
Alawuba made the call while delivering a goodwill remark at the South-East Vision 2050 Regional Stakeholder Forum held on Wednesday at the International Conference Centre in Enugu.
The forum was organised by the South-East Development Commission in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President, the Ministry of Regional Development, and South-East state governments to align stakeholders around an implementation-focused development agenda.
Speaking on behalf of Corporate Nigeria and as chairman of the Body of Banks’ CEOs, Alawuba said peace and security remain the first consideration for investors.
‘The first thing the South-East needs is peace, because investments flow in the direction of safety,’ he said.
He called on governments and regional leaders to sustain coordinated security efforts to protect lives, assets, and infrastructure.
Alawuba said the success of the South-East Vision 2050 would depend on the region’s ability to present clear and investment-ready projects.
‘Vision alone is not enough; the South-East must present specific, bankable projects that can attract capital, create jobs, and improve lives,’ he said.
He urged stronger partnerships between government and the private sector to translate plans into measurable outcomes.
The UBA chief executive also acknowledged progress made by South-East governors in road construction and other infrastructure projects.
‘Infrastructure is the bedrock of development, but more investment is needed in power, roads, rail, water, and connectivity,’ he said.
Alawuba stressed the need for an investor-friendly business environment and the mobilisation of diaspora capital to drive growth.
‘Capital responds to predictability and ease of doing business, and if the fundamentals are right, banks will finance viable projects and support SMEs,’ he said.
He reaffirmed UBA’s readiness to partner with the South-East Development Commission and state governments to support long-term financing for Vision 2050.
The forum was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, South-East governors, federal lawmakers, traditional rulers, diplomats, captains of industry, and development partners.
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