A Grand Celebration of Legacy
Zenith Bank Plc, Nigeria’s banking powerhouse, celebrated its 35th anniversary in remarkable fashion with a glittering Chairman’s Dinner at the Eko Convention Centre of Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event, which took place on Friday, August 15, 2025, was an evening of elegance, grandeur, and reflection on a journey that began three and a half decades ago.
The night was not just about fanfare. It was a carefully curated moment to honor the institution’s remarkable growth story, built on innovation, integrity, and resilience.
Honoring Pioneers and Long-Serving Heroes
At the heart of the celebration was recognition. Pioneer customers and long-serving staff members who have contributed immensely to the bank’s success were honored with commemorative plaques and awards. Many of these staff had dedicated 25 years and more to Zenith Bank, making them living pillars of the brand’s legacy.
Their stories of commitment and loyalty added a deeply human touch to the evening, reminding all present that the success of Zenith Bank is a product of both vision and people.
Dignitaries and Stakeholders in Attendance
The dinner attracted a galaxy of leaders and influencers across government, business, and finance. Guests included the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Taraba State Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas; Borno State Governor Prof. Babagana Zulum; and the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
Also present were Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, former governors Peter Obi and Udom Emmanuel, as well as industry regulators, partners, customers, and friends of the bank. Their presence underscored Zenith Bank’s significance not just as a financial institution, but as a national and continental brand of influence.
A Tribute to Jim Ovia’s Vision
In her welcome address, Group Managing Director and CEO of Zenith Bank, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, paid glowing tribute to Founder and Chairman Jim Ovia, CFR. She described him as “the Godfather of modern banking and the Nostradamus of our time,” lauding his vision, integrity, and foresight that turned a modest idea into a financial giant recognized globally.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, himself an alumnus of the bank, reinforced this narrative. He credited Jim Ovia for embedding innovation into the DNA of Nigerian banking, long before technology became the backbone of global finance. According to him, Ovia’s greatest investment has always been in people—building generations of bankers and entrepreneurs who carry forward the Zenith philosophy of excellence.
Gratitude and Reflection from the Founder
In his remarks, Jim Ovia, CFR, expressed heartfelt gratitude. He thanked Zenith Bank’s customers, shareholders, regulators, and partners for their trust and support. He reserved special praise for the Zenith Bank team, led by Dr. Adaora Umeoji, for their loyalty and relentless drive. With warmth, he also acknowledged his family for being his constant anchor.
A Journey from Modest Beginnings to Global Stature
Founded in May 1990, Zenith Bank started with a modest vision and has since grown into one of Africa’s leading financial institutions. With branches across all 36 states of Nigeria and the FCT, as well as subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, France, UAE, and a representative office in China, the bank has become a symbol of Nigerian banking excellence on the global stage.
The 35th anniversary celebration was not just a party. It was a reminder of Zenith Bank’s journey from humble beginnings to its place today as Nigeria’s largest bank by Tier One capital and a respected name in international finance.
The Future Ahead
As the curtains fell on the glittering Chairman’s Dinner, one thing was clear: Zenith Bank’s story is still being written. With innovation, people, and trust as its foundation, the next chapter promises to be even more inspiring.
For Zenith Bank, the 35th anniversary is not only a milestone. It is a springboard for the future.
