Business News Editor
By Dave Munachi
Zenith Bank Plc over the weekend celebrated its 35th anniversary in grand style with a commemorative Chairman’s Dinner held at the Eko Convention Centre, Lagos. The event, filled with elegance and spectacle, honored the institution’s remarkable journey from a modest vision in 1990 to its present status as one of Africa’s leading financial powerhouses.
As part of the evening, the bank recognized and presented awards to its pioneer customers as well as long-serving employees who have dedicated 25 years or more to the growth and success of the institution.
A Gathering of Stakeholders and Dignitaries
The celebration drew together an impressive array of stakeholders, including present and past staff, customers, regulators, business partners, and friends of the bank. Prominent guests 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). Business magnate Aliko Dangote and Labour Party’s presidential candidate Peter Obi also graced the occasion.
Celebrating the Visionary Behind Zenith
In her welcome address, Group Managing Director/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, praised the Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, for laying the foundation of what has become a globally respected financial institution. She described him as “the godfather of modern Nigerian banking, a visionary whose foresight, determination, and integrity turned an ambitious dream into the world-class bank we celebrate today.”
Shettima’s Tribute
Delivering a goodwill message, Vice President Shettima, who is also an alumnus of Zenith Bank, lauded Jim Ovia’s pioneering role in reshaping Nigerian banking. He noted that Ovia was far ahead of his time, weaving technology into the fabric of banking long before it became a global necessity.
“Jim Ovia built innovation into Zenith not as a trend but as a philosophy,” Shettima said. “His legacy goes beyond impressive balance sheets; his real investment has been in people, passing down knowledge and vision to successive generations of bankers and investors shaped by Zenith Bank.”
Words from the Founder
In his remarks, Jim Ovia expressed deep gratitude to all who have been part of the bank’s 35-year journey. He thanked customers and shareholders for their loyalty, regulators for their guidance, and his colleagues for their dedication. He also extended appreciation to his wife and family, acknowledging their unwavering love and support throughout the years.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Reach
Since its establishment in May 1990, Zenith Bank has evolved from a single branch to a continental and international institution. Today, it operates across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, France, and the UAE, as well as a representative office in China.
Three and a half decades later, Zenith Bank remains a symbol of innovation, resilience, and excellence, setting benchmarks in Nigeria’s financial sector and beyond.
