In the fast-paced world of African banking, few stories capture the spirit of tenacity and transformation like that of Yetunde Oni. As the first female CEO of Union Bank, her ascent marks a watershed moment not only for the 107-year-old institution but for the broader narrative of African women in leadership. With a career spanning over three decades in the financial sector, Oni is not just breaking barriers—she is redefining them.
When Oni assumed the position at Union Bank, she inherited more than just a storied legacy.
Tasked with steering one of Nigeria’s oldest financial institutions through an era of digital disruption and evolving consumer expectations, she brought with her an unyielding commitment to innovation and inclusion.
“Leadership is not just about making decisions; it is about empowering people to see possibilities beyond the present,” Oni remarks, her voice carrying the quiet authority of someone who has earned her seat at the table.
Her journey to the top was anything but accidental. With a background in accounting and extensive leadership experience across top-tier banks, Oni’s rise reflects a blend of strategic foresight and an ability to navigate complex corporate ecosystems.
Prior to joining Union Bank, she held senior executive roles at Standard Chartered Bank and other financial powerhouses, where she led transformative initiatives in retail and commercial banking.
Yet, beyond the corporate milestones, it is Oni’s vision for inclusive leadership that sets her apart. At Union Bank, she has championed initiatives that prioritize financial inclusion for underserved communities, focusing particularly on women-led small businesses.
Under her stewardship, the bank launched tailored products aimed at bridging the financial gap for female entrepreneurs, a move that aligns with her belief that “when you invest in women, you invest in communities.”
But the path to leadership, especially for women in African banking, is seldom linear. Oni acknowledges the structural and cultural barriers she has faced, yet she remains resolute in her commitment to pave the way for others. “I carry the responsibility of representation,” she reflects. “When young women see me in this position, I want them to know that no ambition is beyond their reach.”
Her leadership style blends pragmatism with empathy—a balance she considers vital in an industry often defined by rigid hierarchies. She is known for fostering a culture of mentorship within Union Bank, ensuring that the next generation of leaders are equipped with both the technical expertise and the confidence to excel.
As Africa’s financial landscape undergoes rapid changes, Yetunde Oni remains a formidable force at its forefront.
Her tenure at Union Bank not only signals a new chapter for the institution but serves as a clarion call for African women across sectors: The glass ceiling is not just meant to be cracked—it is meant to be shattered.
In the years to come, one thing is clear: Yetunde Oni is not merely leading a bank. She is shaping the future of African finance, one bold decision at a time.
