Zenith Bank has ushered in a new era of leadership by appointing Adaora Umeoji as its first female Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO).
This historic decision, subject to the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria, is slated to come into effect on June 1, 2024, marking a significant milestone for gender diversity and inclusivity in Nigeria’s banking sector.
According to an official statement released by Zenith Bank on Tuesday, Adaora Umeoji’s appointment follows the conclusion of Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu’s successful five-year tenure, which ends on May 31, 2024.
The bank praised Dr. Onyeagwu for his exemplary leadership and highlighted Umeoji’s selection as part of its commitment to a seamless executive transition, succession planning, and the cultivation of leaders from within the organization.
Prior to her groundbreaking appointment, Adaora Umeoji had been serving as the Deputy Managing Director of Zenith Bank since October 28, 2016.
With nearly three decades of banking experience, including 26 years dedicated to Zenith Bank, Umeoji brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role.
The statement further elaborated on Umeoji’s impressive academic background, which includes prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School and Columbia Business School.
She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Jos, as well as Bachelor’s Degrees in Accounting and Law, the latter awarded with First-Class Honors from Baze University, Abuja.
Umeoji’s academic pursuits also extend to postgraduate studies, with a Master of Laws from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Calabar, and a doctorate in business administration from Apollos University, USA.
With her multifaceted expertise and trailblazing leadership, Adaora Umeoji is poised to chart a new course for Zenith Bank, further solidifying its position as a powerhouse in Nigeria’s financial landscape.
Her appointment not only shatters glass ceilings but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring female leaders across the nation.
As she assumes her role as the first female GMD/CEO in the bank’s history, Umeoji stands as a testament to the limitless potential of women in the corporate world.