President Tinubu congratulates Zenith Bank founder Jim Ovia on his 75th birthday, praising his contributions to banking, economic growth and youth empowerment
Tinubu Celebrates Zenith Bank Founder Jim Ovia at 75
By Lukman OMIKUNLE
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Zenith Bank founder and chairman, Jim Ovia, on his 75th birthday, praising his contributions to Nigeria’s banking industry, economic development and private-sector growth.
Tinubu described Ovia as a visionary entrepreneur, accomplished banker and distinguished business leader whose influence on Nigeria’s financial services sector extends beyond the institution he established.
In a congratulatory message issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended Ovia’s dedication, resilience and commitment to excellence, noting that these qualities helped transform Zenith Bank into one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions.
“Mr. Ovia’s dedication, resilience and commitment to excellence have not only grown Zenith Bank into a banking behemoth but also helped the growth of the Nigerian financial services sector,” Tinubu said.
The President particularly acknowledged Ovia’s pioneering role in establishing Zenith Bank in the 1990s and building it into a major financial institution with a significant presence across Africa, Europe and other international markets.
“His pioneering role in establishing Zenith Bank in the 90s and building it into one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, with significant presence across Africa, Europe and beyond is remarkable,” the President said.
Tinubu also highlighted innovation, discipline, sound corporate governance and long-term investment as defining features of Ovia’s entrepreneurial journey, noting that his business experience demonstrated their importance to national economic development.
Beyond banking, the President praised Ovia’s contributions to digital infrastructure, digital awareness and inclusion, education, youth empowerment, philanthropy and human capital development.
He particularly acknowledged initiatives aimed at creating opportunities for young Nigerians to develop their potential, describing them as an important part of the businessman’s wider contributions to society.
Ovia founded Zenith Bank in 1990 and has become one of the prominent figures in Nigeria’s banking industry. Under his leadership, the financial institution grew into a major player in the domestic banking sector before expanding its operations into international markets.
As the banking entrepreneur marks his 75th birthday, Tinubu wished him continued good health, strength and many more years of productive service to Nigeria and humanity. Ovia’s milestone birthday comes as Zenith Bank continues to maintain its position among Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, with operations extending beyond the country’s borders
