Tinubu Celebrates Jim Ovia At 75, Hails Zenith Bank Founder As Visionary Who Transformed Nigerian Banking

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated banking icon and founder of Zenith Bank, Jim Ovia, as he marks his 75th birthday.

The President commended Ovia for his monumental contributions to Nigeria’s economic development and his revolutionary impact on the financial sector.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Ovia as a visionary entrepreneur, accomplished banker and distinguished business leader.

He said Ovia’s entrepreneurial stride has significantly advanced Nigeria’s private sector and transformed the country’s banking industry.

The President said Mr Ovia’s dedication, resilience and commitment to excellence have not only grown Zenith Bank into a banking behemoth but have also driven the growth of the Nigerian financial services sector.

He particularly celebrated Ovia for his pioneering role in establishing Zenith Bank in the 1990s and building it into a leading financial institution with a robust presence across Africa and Europe.

President Tinubu said Ovia’s entrepreneurial journey reflects the importance of innovation, discipline, sound corporate governance and long-term investment in national development.

He also acknowledged Ovia’s contributions to digital infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, philanthropy and human capital development, particularly through initiatives that create life-changing opportunities for young Nigerians to achieve their full potential.

As the Zenith Bank founder marks this milestone, President Tinubu said he joins family and friends in wishing him continued good health, renewed strength and many more years of productive service to Nigeria and humanity.

Jim Ovia founded Zenith Bank in 1990 and grew it from a small startup into one of Africa’s largest and most respected financial institutions.

Beyond banking, Ovia is widely known for his philanthropy, support for technology education and commitment to developing the next generation of Nigerian leaders.

His 75th birthday has attracted tributes from business leaders, politicians and Nigerians at home and abroad, all celebrating a man whose vision changed the face of banking in Nigeria.