RismadarVoice Reporters, May 5, 2026
Zenith Bank has announced the retirement of its founder and Group Chairman, Jim Ovia, following the expiration of his tenure in line with regulatory requirements.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the bank confirmed that Ovia stepped down after completing the maximum 12 years allowed as a non-executive director and chairman, in compliance with the corporate governance guidelines set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Ovia, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost banking pioneers, founded Zenith Bank and played a pivotal role in its growth into one of the country’s leading financial institutions.
His exit marks the end of an era defined by strong leadership and institutional expansion.
