Zenith Bank
What it does
Zenith Bank Plc is one of Nigeria's largest and most profitable commercial banks, consistently ranked among the top tier of Nigerian banks by total assets, market capitalization, and profitability. Founded in 1990 by Jim Ovia, the bank has grown to become one of Africa's most capitalized banking institutions with total assets exceeding ₦35 trillion. Zenith Bank is listed on both the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE). The bank has been a pioneer in digital banking in Nigeria with its *966# USSD banking, Zenith Internet Banking, and the Zenith Mobile App. In 2024, the bank reported a profit after tax of approximately ₦792 billion ($530M equivalent), benefiting from the devaluation of the Naira and high interest rate environment. Zenith Bank has subsidiaries in the UK, UAE, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia, and is actively involved in trade finance for Nigerian importers and exporters.
Known for
- One of Nigeria's two most valuable banks by market cap
- ₦35+ trillion in total assets
- Pioneer of USSD banking (*966#) in Nigeria
- Dual-listed on NGX and LSE
- Founded by Jim Ovia in 1990
- Subsidiaries in UK, UAE, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia
- Major issuer of Visa and Mastercard debit cards in Nigeria
- ₦792B profit after tax (2024)
Model & industry
Products & subsidiaries
Initiatives & programs
- Zenith Tech Fair: Annual technology and innovation fair showcasing the bank's digital banking products and partnerships with fintech companies.
- Z-Women: Women-focused banking and empowerment initiative providing tailored financial products for female entrepreneurs and professionals.