Zenith Bank Plc, Nigeria’s leading financial institution, has celebrated its 35th anniversary under the theme “People, Technology, and Service,” marking over three decades of innovation, resilience, and impact in the banking industry.
The grand event, hosted at Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos, brought together an array of distinguished guests, including Senator Kashim Shettima, vice president of Nigeria, state governors, business leaders, and cultural icons.
In his goodwill message, Vice President Shettima applauded Zenith Bank for its transformative role in Nigeria’s banking sector, crediting founder Chief Jim Ovia, with pioneering technology-driven banking in Nigeria and building a culture rooted in innovation, integrity, and service to humanity.
He also praised the bank’s seamless leadership transition, describing current GMD/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, as “a deserving trailblazer whose leadership embodies strategic foresight and empathy.”
35 Years of Growth and Innovation
Founded in May 1990, Zenith Bank began operations in a modest office on Victoria Island and has grown into a global brand synonymous with trust, excellence, and cutting-edge financial services. Notable achievements include:
- First Nigerian bank to adopt internet banking (1999), setting the pace for digital transformation.
- 16 consecutive years as Nigeria’s top Tier-1 bank by capital strength.
- Shareholders’ funds of ₦4.44 trillion and market capitalization of about ₦3 trillion.
- Expansion into key markets, while financing critical sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, telecoms, and manufacturing.
Commitment to Service Excellence
Speaking at the event, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, Nigeria’s first female GMD/CEO of Zenith Bank PLC, a Tier-1 bank, reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to customers and communities:
“This celebration is not just about our past; it is about the people who have trusted us for 35 years and the future we are building together. Our promise is to continue redefining service, leveraging technology, and making a positive impact on lives and businesses.”
Looking to the Future
With its legacy of bold innovation and customer-first service, Zenith Bank is positioning for the next decades with renewed focus on:
- Sustainability and Green Banking
- Deepening financial inclusion through agent banking (Z-Money) and digital platforms.
- Investments in people and technology to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.
As Zenith Bank marks 35 years of excellence, its story remains a powerful symbol of what is possible when vision, innovation, and service are woven together for national and global impact.
Summary Snapshot
| Pillar | Key Highlights |
| Vision & Leadership | Jim Ovia’s early tech-driven vision; Adaora Umeoji’s empathetic, strategic leadership |
| Innovation & Tech | First bank in Nigeria with online banking (1999); robust digital infrastructure |
| Financial Strength | Top Tier-1 capital, N4.44T shareholders’ funds, ₦3T market cap |
| National Impact | Funding key sectors, promoting financial inclusion via Z-Money |
| Legacy & Future | Celebrates 35 years while forging ahead with sustainable, service-oriented growth |
