Zenith Bank Plc has once again reinforced its leadership in Nigeria’s banking sector with a stellar half-year performance for 2025. The bank recorded gross earnings of N2.5 trillion, representing a 20 percent year-on-year growth, and declared an interim dividend of N1.25 per share. This marks a 25 percent increase from the N1.00 paid in the same period last year, a move that strengthens its reputation as one of the most consistent dividend-paying institutions in the country.
Profit Before Tax Rises Strongly
Profit before tax surged to N625.63 billion, a reflection of strong income growth in a challenging macroeconomic environment. Net interest income rose by 90 percent to N1.4 trillion, supported by a 60 percent increase in interest income which stood at N1.8 trillion, compared to N1.1 trillion in the first half of 2024. Non-interest income added N613 billion, showing the strength of Zenith Bank’s diversified earnings base.
Profit after tax closed at N532 billion, while earnings per share climbed to N12.95, providing value to shareholders and reinforcing investor confidence.
Assets and Deposits Show Steady Growth
The bank’s total assets grew to N31 trillion, up from N30 trillion at the end of December 2024. Customer deposits increased by 7 percent to N23 trillion, demonstrating trust from both individual and corporate clients. The loan book reduced slightly to N10.2 trillion, reflecting a careful approach to risk management in an evolving economic landscape.
Key Ratios Reflect Resilience
Zenith Bank’s financial health remains solid, with performance ratios comfortably above regulatory thresholds.
- Return on Average Equity stood at 24.8 percent.
- Return on Average Assets came in at 3.5 percent.
- Cost-to-Income ratio was maintained at 48.2 percent.
- Non-Performing Loan ratio improved to 3.1 percent, down from 4.7 percent.
- Capital Adequacy ratio remained at 26 percent.
- Liquidity ratio stood at 69 percent.
These indicators confirm the bank’s resilience and its ability to withstand market shocks while delivering sustainable growth.
CEO Attributes Success to Strategy and Innovation
Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, credited the results to the innovative workforce and sound execution of strategic initiatives. She expressed optimism about stronger growth in the second half of the year and hinted at the possibility of a “quantum” year-end dividend that could further reward investors.
Industry Recognition
Zenith Bank continues to attract recognition from global institutions for its innovation, governance, and sustainability. Some recent awards include:
- Nigeria’s Best Bank at the Euromoney Awards 2025
- Number One Bank by Tier 1 Capital at The Banker’s Top 1000 World Banks
- Best Commercial Bank in Nigeria by World Finance Banking Awards from 2021 to 2025
- Best Corporate Governance Bank by World Finance between 2022 and 2025
- Most Sustainable Bank by International Banker in 2023 and 2024
- Best in MSME Trade Finance by Nairametrics in 2023
- Rights Issue and Public Offer of the Year at the Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards 2025
Outlook for the Future
Looking ahead, Zenith Bank remains focused on digital transformation and innovation as central pillars of its growth strategy. By investing in technology, strengthening corporate governance, and expanding customer offerings, the bank is positioning itself to deliver long-term value to shareholders and the wider Nigerian economy.
