Atlas Mara Co-Nvest, the African investment vehicle of former Barclays chief Bob Diamond, has agreed to buy additional 20.9% stake in Nigeria’s Union Bank for $270 million from Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

Atlas Mara will own a total combined interest of 29.9% in UBN after the completion of the deal.

UBN, which provides banking services to individuals and companies in Nigeria through almost 340 branches, had assets of about $6.3 billion at the end of June.

Bob Diamond said: "This is a very significant acquisition for Atlas Mara. With it, we will have a significant stake in a key Nigerian bank and we will also have established strategic market positions in three of Africa’s leading economic communities: the Southern Africa Development Community, the East Africa Community and Economic Community of West African States."

John Vitalo, CEO of Atlas Mara said: "I am delighted that we are increasing our stake in such a storied institution. Expanding into Nigeria has been a focal point of our strategy and achieving a significant ownership position in an institution of the size, heritage and potential of UBN represents a unique opportunity. "

Completion of the transaction is subject to satisfaction of certain conditions, including receipt of regulatory consents.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Atlas Mara, which raised $325 million in an initial public offering last year to add to its acquisition war chest, has been expanding through stakes such as in the Development Bank of Rwanda and ABC Holdings.