Becoming Bank Manager at 27 Changed My Life, Narrates Tony Elumelu

Prominent African businessman and philanthropist, Tony Elumelu, has reflected on a pivotal moment in his early career, urging Africa to place more trust in its youths.

In a post shared on his LinkedIn page on Tuesday, the Chairman of Heirs Holdings and United Bank for Africa (UBA) recounted how his appointment as a bank branch manager at the age of 27 set the foundation for his future achievements and passion for youth empowerment.

“When I was 27, I was given the opportunity of a lifetime: I became a branch manager at AllStates Trust Bank, a young bank in Nigeria,” Elumelu wrote. “Banking was beginning to change the country; it was the sector to be in ripe for transformation, ready for disruption, ready for democratisation.”

According to him, that early opportunity not only transformed his life but also instilled in him the belief that young people, if given the right platform, can drive innovation and lead change across sectors.

Elumelu, who later rose to become the CEO of Standard Trust Bank and subsequently led the acquisition and turnaround of United Bank for Africa, said his own story underscores the importance of trusting young Africans with responsibility.

Today, through the Tony Elumelu Foundation, he is one of the continent’s leading champions of entrepreneurship, having funded, mentored, and supported thousands of young African entrepreneurs across 54 countries.

“As I look back, I realise that what changed my life was trust someone believed in me at 27. We must do the same for today’s young people,” he stressed.

Elumelu’s reflection comes at a time when Africa is experiencing a youth bulge, with over 60% of its population under the age of 25. His message reinforces the growing call for governments, businesses, and institutions to create more opportunities for young people to lead, innovate, and transform the continent.