As It Records 18.6% Profit Growth, Expands Financial Inclusion… UBA-Sierra Leone Scores Big

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Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, MD/CEO UBA Sierra Leone

The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Sierra Leone has announced a strong financial performance for the 2025 financial year, posting an 18.6 percent increase in Profit Before Tax (PBT) as the institution continues to strengthen its position within the country’s banking sector.

According to the bank’s Board-approved Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements, which were endorsed by the Bank of Sierra Leone, UBA recorded a Profit Before Tax of NLe 988.9 million in 2025, up from NLe 833.6 million in 2024. Profit After Tax also rose significantly to NLe 741 million from NLe 622.8 million recorded the previous year.

The bank’s gross earnings increased by 18.1 percent to NLe 1.3 billion, compared to NLe 1.1 billion in 2024, while its balance sheet expanded by 15.3 percent to NLe 6 billion, reflecting continued business growth and an expanding customer base.

Customer deposits also recorded steady growth, increasing by 8.5 percent to NLe 3.8 billion from NLe 3.5 billion in the preceding year.

UBA attributed the impressive earnings growth to diversified revenue streams, including transactional banking services, digital banking products, trade finance operations, and foreign exchange activities. Despite inflationary pressures and increased business volumes that pushed operating expenses up by 6.7 percent, the bank improved its cost-to-income ratio from 18.1 percent to 16.6 percent, demonstrating enhanced operational efficiency.

Commenting on the results, Board Chairman Dr. Claudius Bart Williams described the performance as a reflection of the bank’s resilience and commitment to supporting national development.

“The Board is pleased with the Bank’s outstanding achievements in 2025. UBA Sierra Leone’s solid financial position and strategic initiatives help the bank support Sierra Leone’s economic development. We remain focused on creating long-term value for all stakeholders,” he said.

The bank also reported strong capital adequacy, with share capital standing at NLe 139 million, exceeding the Bank of Sierra Leone’s regulatory minimum capital requirement of NLe 122 million for 2025. Management expressed confidence in the bank’s ability to meet future capital requirements.

In line with national financial inclusion objectives, UBA opened more than 70,000 new customer accounts and issued over 34,000 debit cards during the year. The bank noted that its digital banking platforms, including mobile banking services and its AI-powered LEO banking assistant, continue to improve access to financial services across the country.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, said the results underscore the trust customers have placed in the institution and the commitment of staff to delivering quality service.

“Our 2025 results reflect the dedication of our team and the trust of our customers. We are proud to deliver strong financial performance while advancing our mission to make banking accessible to all Sierra Leoneans. Innovation, customer service, and operational excellence will remain central to our growth strategy,” he stated.

Looking ahead, UBA Sierra Leone plans to further expand its footprint across the country, including the opening of a new branch in Kono District, aimed at enhancing financial inclusion and extending banking services to more communities.

As one of Sierra Leone’s leading financial institutions, UBA continues to position itself as a key partner in supporting economic growth, digital transformation, and inclusive financial development nationwide.

See Press Release below

Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, MD/CEO UBA Sierra Leone

UBA Sierra Leone Powers Economic Resilience with 18.6% Profit Surge in 2025 Audited Financial Results

Freetown, Sierra Leone -Monday 11th May, 2026 – United Bank for Africa (UBA) Sierra Leone ended 2025 on a high note, delivering strong growth across key metrics as outlined in its Board-approved Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements, endorsed by the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL). The results highlight operational efficiency, strategic expansion, and a firm commitment to driving financial inclusion amid economic challenges.

Key Financial Highlights

*       Profit Before Tax (PBT) rose by 18.6% year-on-year to NLe 988.9 million (from NLe 833.6 million in 2024).

*       Profit After Tax (PAT) climbed to NLe 741.0 million from NLe 622.8 million in 2024.

*       Gross earnings expanded by 18.1% to NLe 1.3 billion (from NLe 1.1 billion in 2024).

*       Balance sheet grew by 15.3% to NLe 6.0 billion (from NLe 5.2 billion), backed by an expanding customer base.

*       Customer deposits increased by 8.5% to NLe 3.8 billion (from NLe 3.5 billion in 2024).

Robust Performance and Efficiency Gains

Gross earnings growth stemmed from diversified sources like transactional banking, digital products, trade finance, and foreign exchange. Despite a 6.7% uptick in operating expenses due to inflation and higher business volumes, UBA sharpened its cost-to-income ratio to 16.6% from 18.1%, showcasing disciplined management.

“The Board is pleased with the Bank’s outstanding achievements in 2025. UBA Sierra Leone’s solid financial position and strategic initiatives help the bank support Sierra Leone’s economic development; of which we are very proud. Of course, the achievement of the Bank reflects the dedication and support of my colleagues on the Board, the Management and Staff of the Bank, who deserve the highest commendation. As a Bank, we remain confident in and focused on the Bank’s ability to create long-term value for our stakeholders,” said Dr. Claudius Bart Williams, Board Chairman.

Solid Capital and Deposit Growth

The balance sheet’s 15.3% expansion to NLe 6.0 billion was fueled by an 8.5% rise in customer deposits to NLe 3.8 billion. Share capital stands at NLe 139 million, surpassing the Central Bank’s 2025 regulatory minimum of NLe 122 million. UBA is financially stable to meet the upcoming minimum capital requirements.

Advancing Inclusion Through Innovation

Supporting the Bank of Sierra Leone’s financial inclusion goals, UBA Sierra Leone opened over 70,072 new accounts and issued about 34,704 cards in 2025. Its “Customer First (C1st)” approach ensures top-tier service, while digital offerings like mobile banking and AI-driven LEO platform deliver seamless access.

“Our 2025 results reflect the dedication of our team and the trust of our customers. We are proud to deliver strong financial performance while advancing our mission to make banking accessible to all Sierra Leoneans. Our focus on innovation, customer service, and operational excellence will continue to drive sustainable growth,” stated Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, Managing Director/CEO.

Future Expansion Plans

UBA plans to grow its branch network, including a new outlet in Kono, to boost inclusion and national reach.

About UBA Sierra Leone

UBA Sierra Leone is a leading financial institution committed to delivering innovative banking solutions and fostering financial inclusion. With a growing network and a customer-first approach, UBA continues to set new standards in the Sierra Leonean banking sector.

For media inquiries:

UBA Sierra Leone Brand Marketing and Corporate Communications Team

Email: mccsierraleone@ubagroup.com

Phone: +232 79066424 / +232 78200200

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