10 Things To Know About Zenith Bank’s First Female CEO Dame Adaora Umeoji

It’s no longer news that Zenith Bank Plc has pencilled down Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji as its next Group Managing Director and Chief Executive with effect from June 1, 2024, subject to approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

One unique thing about the appointment is that Adaora Umeoji will become the first female GMD/CEO of the tier one bank.

Hereunder are some quick facts on Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, and her journey to becoming the first female Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Zenith Bank.

1. Adaora Umeoji’s appointment marks a historic milestone as the first female to hold the GMD/CEO position at Zenith Bank.

2. Umeoji, the founder of the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria (CBAN), is known for promoting ethical banking and humanitarian service.

3. Recognised as a peace advocate by the United Nations (UN-POLAC), she received the Officer of the Order of Nigeria (OON) national honour from the Nigerian government in 2022 for her nation-building efforts.

4. Umeoji brings over 30 years of banking experience, with 26 years at Zenith Bank, where she previously served as Deputy Managing Director since October 28, 2016.

5. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Jos, a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, and a First-Class Honours in Law from Baze University, Abuja.

6. Her educational achievements also include a Master’s of Laws from the University of Salford, UK, and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Calabar.

7. Umeoji’s academic pursuits extend to a Doctorate in Business Administration from Apollos University, USA, and a Certificate in Economics for Business from MIT Sloan School of Management, USA.

8. She has completed executive programmes in Strategic Management at Harvard Business School and attended the Global Banking Program at Columbia Business School.

9. Additionally, Umeoji participated in management programs at various renowned universities worldwide, including Wharton Business School, USA, and has a certificate in Leading Global Business from Harvard Business School.

10. She succeeds Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose five-year tenure ends on May 31, 2024.