BREAKING: Jim Ovia Steps Down as Zenith Bank Chairman After 12 Years

Mfonobong DanielMay 5, 2026Last Updated: May 5, 2026

1 minute read

Zenith Bank Plc has officially announced the retirement of its iconic founder and Group Chairman, Jim Ovia.

This significant leadership change was made public on Tuesday during the bank’s 35th Annual General Meeting held in Lagos.

Ovia is moving on from the board following the conclusion of his legally permitted term of service at the helm of the financial institution.

The transition is a direct result of the bank’s commitment to regulatory standards. The bank confirmed that Ovia stepped down after completing the mandatory 12 years as a non-executive director and chairman, in compliance with the corporate governance guidelines issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

These rules were established by the apex bank to ensure fresh leadership perspectives and robust governance within the Nigerian banking sector.

Jim Ovia’s history with the bank is long and storied. He first took on the role of chairman on July 16, 2014. His return to the board at that time followed his earlier tenure where he served as the bank’s founder and Group Managing Director/CEO from 1990 to 2010. Under his watch, the bank grew from a startup into a dominant force in African banking.

The board has already moved to ensure a smooth transition. Mustafa Bello, a former Minister of Commerce and a seasoned professional with a background in civil engineering and public service, has been appointed to succeed Ovia as the new Group Chairman.

Bello previously served as a non-executive director on the bank’s board before this promotion.

Mfonobong DanielMay 5, 2026Last Updated: May 5, 2026

1 minute read