UNITED Bank for Africa (UBA) has emerged the strongest brands in Nigeria, defying volatile economic conditions to deliver value and build customer loyalty, according to a new report.
UBA rose from ninth position in 2024 to become the strongest Nigerian brand in 2025, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 92.4/100 and a corresponding AAA+ rating.
UBA’s rise to top in brand strength in 2025 effectively displaces GTCO which has now fallen to third place as the lender’s BSI score slowed to 89.5/100.
“UBA performs strongly across all key research metrics, earning high scores in brand familiarity, preference, and consideration, indicating strong consumer trust and loyalty,” said Brand Finance, a London-based consultancy in its latest report.
“Notably, the bank scores exceptionally well on price acceptance, outperforming other leading African peers – such as Capitec in South Africa and Equity Bank in Kenya – on this metric.”
Over the past year, UBA prioritised digital banking, innovation, and technology investments, which are crucial drivers of brand strength in Africa’s banking sector.
Focused on enhancing customer experience, the bank has continued to improvise in many ways to deepen engagement with consumers going forward.
Following UBA closely is First Bank of Nigeria which rose from 11th position to second for brand strength, noting a BSI score of 92.1/100 and a corresponding AAA+ rating as the bank excels across key metrics, including familiarity, reputation, consideration, and preference.
This improvement, according to the report, reflects its strong focus on innovation, digital transformation, and delivering exceptional customer experiences.
“United Bank for Africa (UBA) and First Bank of Nigeria, in particular, have made significant strides in brand strength, emerging as the strongest Nigerian brands in 2025,” Odumeru said.
Odumeru revealed that UBA now ranks as the 13th strongest banking brand globally among the top 500, a promising indication of the growing global competitiveness and recognition of Nigeria’s banking sector.
