UBA (United Bank for Africa) has officially opened its Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP) application for the 2025/2026 cycle. This elite program is designed to develop the next generation of leaders in banking, offering structured training and hands-on experience across key UBA departments.

What is UBA GMAP?

The UBA Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP) is a structured, fast-paced graduate development initiative by the United Bank for Africa (UBA), tailored for young, high-potential talents who are ready to take on leadership roles in the banking industry.

GMAP runs for six months and is a hybrid of intensive classroom learning, real-time job rotation, and executive mentoring. It is designed to accelerate the professional growth of young graduates, equipping them with in-demand banking, leadership, and digital transformation skills.

Key Components of the GMAP:

1. Classroom Training (via UBA Academy):
   Participants undergo formal instruction in core banking principles, financial services, digital banking, customer engagement, credit analysis, and regulatory frameworks.
2. On-the-Job Rotations:
   Trainees rotate through various departments including Retail Banking, Corporate Banking, Treasury, Risk Management, Internal Audit, Marketing, and Digital Channels to gain hands-on exposure.
3. Cross-Border Assignments:
   High-performing trainees may have opportunities for postings across UBA’s 20+ African subsidiaries or global offices (UK, UAE, USA, France), fostering international experience.
4. Executive Mentorship:
   Each trainee is paired with an experienced UBA leader for mentorship, guidance, and leadership development.
5. Performance Reviews & Coaching:
   Regular performance evaluations, peer reviews, and feedback sessions are used to monitor progress and ensure readiness for post-GMAP roles.
6. Certification:
   Upon successful completion, participants are certified by the UBA Academy and transitioned into permanent, full-time roles.

Purpose of the Programme

GMAP is UBA’s strategic investment in building future leaders who understand both the technical and strategic side of banking. It aligns with the bank’s broader mission of empowering African economies and developing talent that can drive innovation and growth in the financial ecosystem.

What Sets UBA GMAP Apart?

• Speed of Career Advancement: Graduates often move into senior analyst or managerial roles within 2–3 years.
• Africa-Focused Vision: Trainees are groomed to lead in diverse markets across the continent.
• Inclusive Talent Development: The program promotes gender equality, with over 50% of recent cohorts being female.

Who Can Apply?

To apply for the UBA GMAP, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Educational Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or Higher from a recognized university (minimum of Second Class Lower Division or equivalent).
• A Master’s degree is an added advantage but not compulsory.
• All academic disciplines are welcome, but applicants with backgrounds in Finance, Business, Economics, Marketing, Accounting, and Technology may have an edge depending on functional preferences.

2. NYSC Completion (For Nigerian Applicants)

• Candidates must have completed the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program.
• An NYSC discharge certificate or valid exemption letter is required at the time of application.

3. Age Limit

• Applicants must not be older than 27 years as of the time of application.
• This ensures candidates are aligned with the programme’s early-career leadership pipeline.

4. Soft Skills and Competencies

Candidates must demonstrate:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Leadership potential and emotional intelligence
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and grow
• Ability to work in a team and multicultural environments
• High integrity, professionalism, and a positive attitude 

5. Mobility and Availability

• Applicants must be open to relocation, rotational job placements, and assignments within any of UBA’s branches across Africa or internationally.
• Full-time availability for the 6-month training period is mandatory.

6. Technology Awareness

While not compulsory, candidates with basic knowledge in:

• Digital banking trends
• FinTech
• Data analysis
• Microsoft Excel/Power BI
  will stand out during the selection process.

Required Documents for Application:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Degree certificate and academic transcripts
• NYSC discharge/exemption certificate
• Valid means of identification (NIN, passport, or national ID)
• A short personal statement or cover letter (optional but helpful)

How to Apply

1. Visit: https://jointhetribe.ubagroup.com
2. Create an account and fill out your profile
3. Upload CV, academic documents, and valid ID
4. Choose your preferred banking division
5. Submit before 20 July 2025

After you submit the application, a confirmation email will be sent to you. UBA will contact only shortlisted candidates via email for the next stage.

Ensure your contact information is accurate and check your inbox regularly (including spam/junk folders).

If shortlisted, the selection process includes:

1. Online Aptitude Test
   You’ll receive a timed online assessment covering:

• Numerical reasoning
• Verbal reasoning
• Abstract/logical reasoning
• Basic financial literacy

2. Virtual or In-person Interview
   Conducted by UBA HR and senior staff. You may be asked to:

• Discuss your motivation for joining UBA
• Share leadership experiences
• Solve hypothetical business cases

3. Assessment Centre (if applicable)
   Some candidates may go through a group task evaluation or panel interview.
4. Final Offer & Onboarding
   Successful candidates will receive an official offer and begin onboarding for the 6-month training.

What Happens After GMAP?

• Successful graduates are deployed into full-time analyst roles
• Career tracks include Commercial Banking, SME, Risk, Digital, and Treasury
• High performers are positioned for leadership roles within 3–5 years

Important Things to Note

• No application fee – UBA does not charge at any stage
• Avoid third-party agents or fake recruiters
• For help: cfc@ubagroup.com