Zenith Bank Plc has appointed Dr. Adaora Umeoji as its Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective from June 1. The announcement was made in a notification to the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. (NGX) by the bank’s company secretary, Michael Otu, subject to Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) approval.
Umeoji succeeds Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose successful five-year term ends on May 31, marking the bank’s first female GMD/CEO since its inception. The appointment aligns with Zenith Bank’s tradition of executive transition and internal leadership grooming. Umeoji, previously the Deputy Managing Director since October 28, 2016, brings nearly 30 years of banking experience, with 26 years at Zenith Bank.
She holds various degrees and certifications from prestigious institutions, including Harvard Business School and Columbia Business School. Umeoji is a fellow of esteemed professional bodies and has received numerous honors, including Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) from the Nigerian government. Passionate about philanthropy and professionalism in banking, she has founded NGOs and received recognition from the United Nations (UN-POLAC) for her humanitarian efforts.
Umeoji’s leadership aims to promote ethical banking and service to humanity, as evidenced by her founding of the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria (CBAN) and her role as a Lady of the Order of Knights of St. John International (KSJI).
