Zenith Bank Plc has announced the retirement of its founder and Group Chairman, Jim Ovia, following the completion of his 12-year tenure in line with Nigeria’s corporate governance regulations.
The bank made the disclosure in a corporate notice released in Lagos on May 5, 2026. Ovia’s exit complies with the mandatory tenure limit for chairmen of financial holding companies, non-interest banks, and payment service banks.
In a statement, the Board commended Ovia for his role in Zenith Bank’s growth, noting that his leadership and strategic oversight strengthened the institution’s reputation and stakeholder value within the financial services sector.
Engr. Mustafa Bello, previously a non-executive director, has now assumed the role of Group Chairman.