Zenith Bank Plc announced on March 20 that it appointed Dame (Dr) Adaora Umeoji as its Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer. This confirms THEWILL’s earlier exclusive report. As reported by THEWILL, the appointment, effective from June 1, 2024, awaits approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Dr. Adaora Umeoji, the first female to lead the bank, succeeds Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose term ends May 31, 2024. Zenith Bank stated on Tuesday that her appointment aligns with the bank’s tradition of executive transition and internal leadership development.
Prior to her new role, Dr. Umeoji served as the Deputy Managing Director of Zenith Bank since October 28, 2016. She possesses nearly thirty years of banking experience, with twenty-six years at Zenith Bank. Dr. Umeoji’s academic background includes degrees from various prestigious institutions worldwide.
She obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Jos and another in Accounting and Law from Baze University. She also earned a Master of Laws from the University of Salford, UK, an MBA from the University of Calabar.
Dr. Umeoji has also completed executive programs and obtained certificates from renowned institutions such as Harvard Business School, MIT Sloan School of Management, and Wharton Business School. She is a fellow of esteemed professional bodies both locally and internationally.
These include the Chartered Banker Institute, UK, and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. Dr. Umeoji has been recognized for her contributions to nation-building and humanitarian efforts. In 2022, she was honored with the Officer of the Order of the Niger by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
She is also a Peace Advocate of the United Nations (UN-POLAC). Dr. Umeoji channels her philanthropic activities through her NGOs, Pink Breathe Cancer Foundation and the Adorable Foundation. These organizations focus on education for indigent children, especially girls, and supporting cancer patients.
Her dedication to promoting professionalism and improving the welfare of the less privileged led her to establish the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria (CBAN). This platform advocates for ethical banking practices and service to humanity.
Dr. Adaora Umeoji holds the title of Lady of the Order of Knights of St John International (KSJI) and received a Papal Knight of the Order of St Sylvester from His Holiness Pope Francis.
