₦airaland Forum

Zenith Bank Plc has strengthened its international presence with the official commissioning of its UK subsidiary, Zenith Bank (UK) Limited, Manchester Branch on March 17, 2026.

The high-profile event brought together key figures from government, finance, and international trade across Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Among those in attendance were the representative of the President, Minister of State for Finance, Taiwo Oyedele.

Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of State (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo; Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas; and a representative of the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Ms. Aisha Rimi of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission.

Also present were the Chairman and Founder of Zenith Bank, Jim Ovia , Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank, Adaora Umoeji; Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; and the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria, Florence Eshalomi.

The event further drew the CEO of Nigerian Exchange Ltd, Jude Chiemeka.

Also in attendance was the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, alongside executive directors of the bank and other dignitaries.

Recent financial performance reinforces the bank’s capacity for such growth. Zenith Bank has demonstrated strong capital resilience, surpassing ₦4.7 trillion in shareholders’ funds and achieving significant growth in net interest income in its latest financial cycle.

Located in Manchester, the new branch is designed to complement Zenith Bank’s established London operations.

The hub will focus on corporate banking, trade finance, and treasury services, specifically targeting businesses operating within the UK–Africa trade corridor.

Speaking at the commissioning, stakeholders emphasized the strategic importance of the expansion in deepening economic ties between Nigeria and the UK, while enhancing financial support for cross-border trade and investment.

The Manchester branch is also expected to contribute to the local UK economy, with projections indicating the creation of approximately 30 direct jobs.

Zenith Bank’s Manchester launch is part of a broader international expansion strategy that has seen the bank deepen its presence across Europe and Africa. From Paris to planned entries into other African markets, the bank continues to extend its reach while maintaining a strong reputation for technological innovation and service delivery.

The commissioning of the Manchester branch signals Zenith Bank’s intent to play a more prominent role in global finance, particularly in facilitating Africa’s integration into international markets.

For Zenith Bank, Manchester is not just another branch, it is a statement of ambition, resilience, and a forward-looking vision for African banking on the global stage.

Zenith Bank Hosts 2026 International Women’s Day Seminar in Lagos, Empowering Nigerian Women to ‘Take It and Own It’

Zenith Bank Plc hosted a remarkable International Women’s Day seminar on Monday, March 9th, 2026, at The Civic Centre, Victoria Island Lagos, bringing together influential leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs to celebrate women’s empowerment and leadership.

The seminar, themed “Take It, You Own It, ” aligns with the global International Women’s Day theme “Give to Gain” which emphasizes the importance of investing intentionally in women to create sustainable social and economic progress.

Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank, in her welcome remarks, highlighted the bank’s commitment to creating platforms that encourage women to step forward confidently and take ownership of opportunities.

She noted that institutions must create enabling environments, while women must also boldly claim their value and leadership positions.

The well-attended event was anchored by popular Master of Ceremony, Mojibade Sosanya, popularly known as Mojibadeshow, who kept the audience engaged throughout the program.

The event brought together a diverse lineup of speakers, panelists, and performers, creating a mix of serious conversations, inspiration, and entertainment.

Nigeria’s First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu was represented at the event by Mrs. Salamatu Gbajabiamila, wife of the President’s Chief of Staff.

Delivering her message, the representative emphasized that empowering women should not be seen as charity but as a strategic investment in national development.

One of the hlights of the seminar was the keynote address delivered by Dr Ibijoke Sanwo‑Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, who emphasized the importance of education, mentorship, and leadership development for young women.

Another highlight of the seminar was the keynote address delivered by Former Member of the Nigeria House of Reps Mrs Abike Dabiri‑Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission. She spoke passionately about resilience, global opportunities, and the importance of women supporting one another across industries and borders.

Another powerful moment at the seminar was the talk delivered by creative entrepreneur and photographer TY Bello.

Her address focused on identity, purpose, and the importance of women fully embracing their unique calling.

Beyond the conversations, the event created moments of laughter and celebration.

Popular comedian Chigul delivered a lively comedy performance that brought humor and. lightheartedness to the audience.

Towards the end, award-winning singer Teni thrilled attendees with an energetic live performance that added a festive atmosphere to the event.

Participants at the seminar were also treated to refreshments and received curated gift bags,.creating a celebratory experience for everyone present.

For many attendees, the event was not only an opportunity to listen to inspiring stories but also to network with professionals from different sectors and share ideas on advancing women’s leadership in Nigeria
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Over the years, Zenith Bank’s International Women’s Day seminars have grown into one of the. notable corporate platforms for conversations around gender equality and professional development in Nigeria.

This year’s edition continued that tradition by bringing together influential voices across business,.governance, and the creative industry to reinforce a simple but powerful message to women everywhere:

Step forward boldly, take the opportunities before you, and own your place in shaping the future

In a significant boost to healthcare delivery in Okobo Local Government Area (LGA) of Akwa Ibom State, the Grace Efiong Osung Foundation has donated a state-of-the-art Model Primary Health Centre to the state government. The facility, located in Udung Afiang, Okobo LGA, was commissioned by Governor Pastor Umo Eno, who hailed the foundation's commitment to expanding access to healthcare as "exemplary".

Speaking through the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, Governor Eno praised the donor, Engr. Elvis Osung, for immortalizing his mother, Grace Osung, through this thoughtful initiative. He described Engr. Osung as a "hero of community development" in the state, who has demonstrated the role of private citizens in responsive governance.

The governor assured that the facility, to be managed by the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, would be adequately staffed, with sufficient personnel deployed to keep the centre active. He appealed to the community to protect the facility against vandals, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding public infrastructure.

The center comprises the following;

Male ward
Female Ward
Labour ward
Pharmacy and laboratory
Doctors Office
Consulting room
Nurse Bay
Nurse lodge
Outpatient department
Storage unit et al

Engr. Elvis Osung, Chairman of the Grace Efiong Osung Foundation, revealed that the project was designed to meet the healthcare needs of Udung Afiang and surrounding communities. The foundation has enrolled the facility under the State Health Insurance scheme and sponsored insurance cover for over 100 families in the area.

Engr. Osung expressed his motivation for the project, citing the need to support government efforts to transform the health sector in the state. He thanked his wife, Unyime, and father, Chief Efiong Osung, for their support and encouragement.

The facility is expected to provide quality healthcare services to thousands of residents, improving health outcomes and enhancing the overall well-being of the community.