Zenith Bank Plc has marked its 35th anniversary in Lagos with a grand celebration that honoured pioneer customers and long-serving staff members. The event brought together stakeholders, business leaders, partners, and dignitaries to recognise the bank’s journey of growth, stability, and innovation in the Nigerian financial sector.
Established in May 1990, Zenith Bank has grown from its modest beginnings to become one of Africa’s leading financial institutions. Over the years, the bank has earned a strong reputation for reliability, innovation, and customer service, positioning itself among the most trusted financial brands on the continent.
At the anniversary event, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank, Dr Adaora Umeoji, highlighted the institution’s consistent commitment to empowering individuals and businesses through modern financial solutions. She noted that the bank’s success story was built on customer loyalty and the unwavering dedication of its staff.
“Our success has been built on the trust of our customers and the dedication of our staff. Today, we not only celebrate 35 years of growth and excellence but also the people who made this possible,” Umeoji said. She stressed that the bank would continue to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of the financial sector while maintaining its strong foundation of customer satisfaction and service delivery.
The event also had in attendance the founder and chairman of Zenith Bank, Mr Jim Ovia, who commended the bank’s achievements and praised its resilience in navigating challenges over the years. Ovia noted that Zenith Bank’s vision of being a leading financial institution had been consistently pursued through innovation, professionalism, and strict adherence to corporate governance.
The ceremony attracted notable personalities, including the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Africa’s richest man and businessman, Aliko Dangote; and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. Their presence added glamour to the occasion, which also featured musical performances, keynote speeches, and the presentation of awards to staff and pioneer customers who contributed to the bank’s growth.
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Sanwo-Olu, in his remarks, congratulated Zenith Bank for its remarkable journey, adding that the institution has become a symbol of resilience and corporate excellence in Nigeria. He commended the bank for its role in supporting businesses and contributing to the state’s economic development over the decades.
For many attendees, the anniversary served as both a celebration of Zenith Bank’s past achievements and a reminder of the institution’s important role in shaping Nigeria’s financial services industry. With over three decades of operations, the bank has established itself as a trusted partner for individuals, small businesses, and large corporations across different sectors.
The event also showcased the bank’s cultural values of innovation, discipline, and sustainability. Many long-serving staff were honoured for their loyalty and dedication, while pioneer customers were appreciated for their confidence in choosing Zenith Bank during its early days.
Zenith Bank has remained a trailblazer in the Nigerian banking space, driving financial inclusion, expanding its digital platforms, and maintaining global recognition for its operations. Industry watchers believe that the celebration was not only a moment of reflection but also an opportunity for the bank to strengthen its position as a leader in Africa’s financial landscape.
As the evening drew to a close, the atmosphere remained lively with entertainment and reflections from various stakeholders. Guests expressed optimism that Zenith Bank would continue to thrive for decades to come, playing a vital role in Nigeria’s economic growth.
With a firm foundation, strong leadership, and a clear vision for the future, Zenith Bank’s 35th anniversary has become a milestone that underscores its journey of trust, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
