Zenith Bank Appoints First Female CEO, Dr. Adaora Umeoji

Zenith Bank, a leading financial institution in Nigeria, has made a historic appointment, naming Dr. Adaora Umeoji as its new Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. The announcement came on Tuesday in a statement signed by the company secretary, Michael Otu, and filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited.

Dr. Adaora Umeoji‘s tenure will commence on June 1, 2024, following the conclusion of the term of the current GMD, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, on May 31, 2024.

In a significant milestone for gender equality in the banking sector, Dr. Adaora Umeoji becomes the first female GMDCEO in the history of Zenith Bank. The appointment reflects the bank’s commitment to its executive transition tradition, succession plan, and strategy of cultivating leaders from within.

Prior to her elevation, Dr. Adaora Umeoji served as the Deputy Managing Director of Zenith Bank since October 28, 2016. With nearly three decades of banking experience, including an impressive 26 years with Zenith Bank, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role.

Dr. Umeoji‘s academic credentials are equally impressive. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Jos and bachelor’s degrees in accounting and law, both with first-class honors, from Baze University, Abuja. Additionally, she holds a Master of Laws from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Calabar. Dr. Umeoji also earned a business administration doctorate from Apollos University, USA.

Furthermore, Dr. Umeoji is an alumna of prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School and Columbia Business School, where she completed the Advanced Management Programme and received a Certificate in the Global Banking Program, respectively. She has also undertaken management programs at renowned universities worldwide, including the MIT Sloan School of Management and Wharton Business School, USA.

With her vast experience, exceptional qualifications, and dedication to excellence, Dr. Adaora Umeoji is poised to lead Zenith Bank into a new era of growth and innovation. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the bank and women in leadership roles within the Nigerian banking industry.