Banking
Zenith Bank celebrates 35th anniversary, honours pioneer customers, staff
Zenith Bank Plc over the weekend marked its 35th anniversary with a colourful Chairman’s Dinner at the Eko Convention Centre, Lagos, where it honoured pioneer customers and long-serving staff for their contributions to the institution’s growth.
The glamorous event, which drew leading figures from Nigeria’s political, business, and financial circles, recognised employees who have served the bank for 25 years and above, as well as customers who have stood with the institution since inception.
Dignitaries at the ceremony included Vice President Kashim Shettima; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas; Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum; and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his deputy, Monday Onyeme. Also in attendance were business mogul Aliko Dangote and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi.
In her welcome address, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, paid glowing tribute to the bank’s founder and chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, describing him as the “Godfather of modern banking” in Nigeria. She praised his foresight and tenacity, noting that his vision had transformed a modest idea into a world-class financial powerhouse.
Vice President Shettima, an alumnus of Zenith Bank, also hailed Ovia’s role in revolutionising the country’s banking industry. “Long before technology became the bloodstream of global finance, Jim Ovia had already woven it into the DNA of Nigerian banking. His true legacy, however, lies in his investment in human capital, in building generations of bankers and investors,” the Vice President said.
In his remarks, Jim Ovia expressed appreciation to customers, shareholders, regulators, and staff for their trust and support over the years. He commended the Zenith Bank family, led by Dr. Umeoji, for their loyalty and dedication, and acknowledged his family for their unwavering encouragement.
Founded in May 1990, Zenith Bank has grown into Nigeria’s largest bank by Tier-One capital, with branches across the 36 states and the FCT, as well as subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, France, and the United Arab Emirates, along with a representative office in China.
The bank’s 35-year journey, celebrated with glitz and gratitude, underscored its reputation as a leader in innovation, customer service, and excellence in Africa’s financial services industry.