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It was cheering news when the 34-year-old Zenith Bank Plc announced the appointment of its first female Group Managing Director, Dr. Adaora Umeoji on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. For many stakeholders of the bank, the appointment was memorable and resonated across the finance industry as it was the first time in the history of the bank.
Umeoji was honored with the esteemed Officer of the Order of the Niger award. She succeeded Dr Ebenezer Onyeagwu, who completed his five-year term on May 31, 2024. Many bank stakeholders believe Umeoji is poised to skillfully navigate the turbulent landscape of the banking sector and propel the bank towards unprecedented heights.
So, when she officially resumed to mount the bank saddle on Monday, June 3, 2024, it was the beginning of a tenure filled with much expectation that the bank would continue to grow in fortune.
There are expectations that Dr. Umeoji, who has been the Deputy Managing Director of the bank since October 28, 2016, and has close to thirty (30) years of cognate banking experience of which twenty-six (26) years has been with Zenith Bank, will take the bank to higher heights.
Zenith Bank has seen remarkable growth across various key metrics. For instance, the share price surged from N18.60 in 2019 to N38.65 by the close of 2023, while market capitalization soared from N584 billion to N1.213 trillion during the same period.
Also, Zenith Bank’s financial performance has witnessed significant growth. Gross earnings escalated from N2.462 trillion in 2019 to N6.101 trillion by Q3 2023, while customer deposits surged to N13.383 trillion, total assets leaped to N18.160 trillion, cash and short-term funds jumped to N8.513 trillion, and shareholders’ fund rose to N1.919 trillion by Q3 2023. Notably, gross earnings spiked from N662 billion to N1.329 trillion, and profit before tax surged from N243 billion to N505 billion. Non-interest income climbed from N232 billion to N607 billion by Q3 2023, alongside a rise in earnings per share from N6.65 to N13.82.
Furthermore, retail banking at Zenith Bank grew from N9 billion in 2019 to approximately N39 billion.
The company also experienced substantial growth in non-financial indicators, with its customer base expanding from 9,575,733 to 33,069,875, cards issued increasing from 7,880,411 to 25,653,330, PoS terminals rising from 41,536 to 413,183, banking agents growing from none to 105,810, ATM terminals rising from 2,009 to 2,012, bank branches expanding from 430 to 447, and cash centers seeing a decrease from 178 to 166 by the end of 2023. Additionally, the number of male staff rose from 3,776 to 4,049, and female staff increased from 3,441 to 3,993 during the same period.
According to a shareholder of the bank, Dr Moses Bello, Adaora’s appointment signifies a growing emphasis on gender inclusion within Nigeria’s financial institutions. He said, “Her leadership at Zenith Bank promises to uphold its esteemed reputation, reflecting her dedication to professional excellence and societal welfare.
With a fervent commitment to advancing banking standards and serving the community, Dr. Adaora will elevate Zenith Bank’s position as a key player in her areas of influence. “Her ascent to her current position wasn’t sudden, nor was it without its challenges. Her career achievements speak volumes, boasting an impressive profile. With a blend of intelligence and beauty, she embodies the epitome of a cerebral woman, equipped with vast knowledge, skills, and experience.’’
Umeoji’s academic journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of knowledge and expertise across diverse disciplines. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Jos, she embarked on a formidable academic odyssey that saw her attain multiple degrees and certifications.
Her academic repertoire boasts a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and a first-class honour in Law from Baze University, Abuja, solidifying her foundation in both financial and legal domains. Undeterred, she further honed her skills with a Master of Law from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, and a Master in Business Administration from the University of Calabar, demonstrating her commitment to multifaceted learning.
Her thirst for knowledge transcended borders as she pursued advanced management programs at prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School and Wharton Business School, USA. Her association with Harvard Business School is marked by numerous accolades, including certificates in strategic management and leading global business.
Umeoji’s global perspective on banking was enriched by her participation in the Global Banking Programme at Columbia Business School. Undoubtedly, her academic journey culminated in a Doctorate in Business Administration from Apollos University, USA, further elevating her stature in the corporate realm.
Beyond academia, Umeoji’s professional affiliations underscore her standing as a seasoned industry expert. As a fellow of esteemed institutions like the Chartered Banker Institute and the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, she embodies a rare blend of financial acumen and diplomatic finesse.
Her commitment to fostering camaraderie and excellence within the banking sector is exemplified by her role as the founder of the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria. Furthermore, her dedication to national development earned her the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger award in 2022, a testament to her invaluable contributions to the nation.
In addition to her academic and professional accomplishments, Umeoji’s advocacy for peace as a United Nations Peace Advocate underscores her commitment to societal well-being beyond corporate boardrooms.
