Wednesday 28 May 2008

Arsenal Forays Into Africa (Partners UBA)

UBA has entered into a strategic partnership with Arsenal FC. The deal, signed at the Emirates Stadium, London on Tuesday, May 27, 2008 by officials of the bank and the football club will see UBA and Arsenal collaborate on a variety of Arsenal financial services and grassroots football initiatives.

The financial services will include co-branded electronic payment solutions such as debit and credit cards for consumers in all West African locations where UBA currently operates.
Arsenal has successfully developed a number of similar commercial and technical partnerships across the world but this represents the Club's first significant financial services partnership in the Africa continent.

Adrian Ford, Commercial Director at Arsenal said that ''This partnership with UBA represents an exciting opportunity for us. We are aware that Arsenal has an exceptionally strong following in Africa and we look forward to working with the bank in the development of financial services and football at grassroots level. The partnership will enable us to develop a closer affiliation with our supporters and give many fans the opportunity to visit Emirates Stadium, receive Arsenal merchandise and win shirts signed by our first team squad. UBA and Arsenal are also committed to renovating pitches across West Africa. Initially twelve pitches in Nigeria will be laid with artificial surfaces providing a durable and lasting facility for local players and we'll also provide local support with visits to the region by our community coaches”.

Angela Nwabuoku, Executive Director, Products and Segment Banking, UBA and Chika Mordi, Managing Director, UBA Capital Europe seen in the pictures with Arsenal FC Manager, Arsene Wenger signed on behalf of UBA.