Jim Ovia Retires; Engr. Mustafa Bello New Zenith Bank Chairman

Jim Ovia has officially retired as the Group Chairman of Zenith Bank PLC, following the expiration of his mandatory 12-year tenure, in compliance with regulatory requirements. This development was disclosed in a corporate notice issued in Lagos on May 5, 2026.

Ovia's leadership has been recognized for its strong strategic vision and effective oversight, significantly strengthening the bank's position in the financial services sector. Engr.

Mustafa Bello, who previously served as a non-executive director at Zenith Bank, has been appointed as the new Group Chairman. Bello graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1978, and has held various key positions in the Nigerian government, including serving as the Federal Minister of Commerce from 1999 to 2002 and as the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission from November 2003 to February 2014.

His appointment marks a significant milestone in the bank's history as it continues to build on the foundation laid by its founder.