LAGOS, June 5 (AGCNewsNet) — Zenith Bank Plc has once again been named “Best Bank in Nigeria” by Global Finance magazine in its 2025 Best Banks Awards, marking the fifth time in six years the financial institution has received the prestigious honor.

The award, announced at the 32nd Annual Best Bank Awards, recognizes top-performing banks in 36 African countries that demonstrated resilience in volatile markets and delivered strong financial results while preparing for long-term success.

“We are thrilled to retain our position as the Best Bank in Nigeria,” said Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank. “This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer service, innovative financial solutions, and sound corporate governance.”

Umeoji credited the bank’s continued success to the leadership of Founder and Chairman Jim Ovia, CFR, the board’s strategic oversight, dedicated staff, and loyal customers. “We will continue to invest in our people, technology and processes to maintain excellence,” she added.

Global Finance’s editorial board, in selecting the winners, consulted financial executives, analysts, and consultants globally. The evaluation process combined quantitative metrics — such as growth in assets, profitability, and innovation — with qualitative insights from industry experts.

Commenting on the awards, Global Finance’s publisher Joseph D. Giarraputo highlighted the increasing role of artificial intelligence in banking transformation. “Global banking continues to adapt and evolve with resilience and innovation,” he said. “AI is rapidly reshaping the sector, and top banks are capitalizing on these changes.”

Zenith Bank’s performance has earned it multiple accolades in recent years. These include:

· Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for 15 consecutive years (The Banker Magazine, 2024)

· Bank of the Year in 2020, 2022, and 2024 (The Banker)

· Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria (Euromoney Awards 2023)

· Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria (World Finance Banking Awards, 2021–2024)

· Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria (International Banker, 2023 & 2024)

· Best in Corporate Governance – Financial Services Africa (Ethical Boardroom, 2020–2023)

· In addition, Zenith Bank received numerous 2024 honors, including:

· Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria (The Banker Magazine)

· Retail Bank of the Year (BAFI Awards)

· Best in MSME Trade Finance (Nairametrics)

· Bank of the Year from ThisDay and New Telegraph newspapers

· Best Company in Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (SERAS CSR Awards Africa)

The Bank’s recent Hybrid Offer also earned it the “Rights Issue/Public Offer of the Year” at the 2025 Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards.

Founded in 1987, Global Finance's Best Bank Awards are considered among the most credible in the industry and span over 150 countries across multiple continents.

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