The United Capital Group held a solemn memorial service in honour of six staff members who lost their lives in the recent fire outbreak at Afriland Towers, the company’s Lagos headquarters.
The event, held at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together capital market regulators, industry leaders, clients, partners, and members of the wider business community, who joined families and loved ones of the deceased in mourning. The ceremony was also streamed live to enable colleagues and well-wishers across the globe to participate, with additional viewing centres in Abuja and Port Harcourt.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of United Capital Plc, Peter Ashade, opened the service with a heartfelt address, leading the gathering in a moment of silence before delivering personal tributes to each of the deceased. He described the incident as a devastating blow to the organisation, while urging families to find strength in the enduring legacy of their loved ones.
Also in attendance was the Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu, CFR, who spoke with visible emotion as he extended condolences to the bereaved families. Elumelu reaffirmed the unity and resilience of both United Capital and the broader Heirs Holdings family in this moment of collective grief.
Family members, friends, and colleagues of the deceased also took turns to share moving tributes, recalling their lives, values, and contributions to the company and society.
The service concluded with a message of encouragement from Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, who offered words of comfort and hope to the grieving, followed by a soul-stirring performance from singer Timi Dakolo, which left the audience in solemn reflection.
Guests described the memorial as a dignified and fitting farewell to the six departed colleagues.
United Capital, in a statement, said: “While the pain of their passing remains profound, their memories, impact, and contributions will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew them.”
The tragic fire incident occurred on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Afriland Towers, claiming the lives of six United Capital staff.