Dame Adaora Umeoji Becomes Zenith Bank's First Female GMD

Dame Adaora Umeoji has been appointed as the Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank, making history as the first woman to lead the financial institution. Her appointment comes at a time when Zenith Bank is navigating a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

For the full year 2024, the bank reported an extraordinary 86% growth in gross earnings, driven by a 138% surge in interest income and an expanded loan book, with profit before tax climbing to N1.3 trillion. Total assets rose approximately 47% to N30 trillion, reflecting increased customer confidence.

Umeoji emphasized the importance of supporting small and medium enterprises, which she described as the heartbeat of Nigeria's economy. Under her leadership, the bank aims to deepen digital innovation and expand its global footprint, having recently opened branches in Paris and Manchester, with plans for a possible listing on the London Stock Exchange in 2027.

Umeoji's strategic focus includes maintaining strong risk management and liquidity discipline to ensure long-term institutional stability.