Zenith Bank Plc has been named the Best Bank in Nigeria in the Global Finance Best Banks Awards 2024, securing the prestigious accolade for the fourth time since 2019.
The bank stood out among its peers from 36 African countries recognized by Global Finance in its 31st Annual Best Bank Awards.
Global Finance’s editors meticulously selected the winners after extensive consultations with corporate financial executives, bankers, consultants, and analysts worldwide. Criteria ranged from quantitative measures such as growth in assets and profitability to subjective assessments, including strategic relationships and innovation in products.
Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, the outgoing Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank, remarked, “This award serves as a powerful affirmation of our resilience and tenacity despite headwinds and a very challenging macroeconomic environment. Indeed, it is a testament to our status as the leading financial institution in Nigeria, dedicated unwaveringly to delivering exceptional value to our stakeholders.”
He expressed gratitude to the bank’s founder and chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, for his vision and foundational role. He also commended the board, staff, and customers for their contributions to the bank’s success.
Joseph D. Giarraputo, publisher and editorial director of Global Finance, highlighted the significance of the awards in recognizing banks that offer broad services, long-term reliability, and technological innovation. He said, “Banking has reached another watershed moment with the debut of generative artificial intelligence, which promises to rewrite the industry playbook.”
He added, “In this ever-changing environment, the Best Bank Awards recognize the financial institutions that offer the broadest range of services, long-term reliability, and technological innovation.”
Global Finance’s “Best Banks Awards” are esteemed in the banking and finance industry, with winners selected across 150 countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1987, these awards have become a trusted standard of excellence.
Zenith Bank’s outstanding performance has garnered numerous accolades, including recognition as the Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the Euromoney Awards 2023 and being listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023. The bank has also received awards for its corporate governance, sustainability, and innovation in retail banking.
Additionally, Zenith Bank has been honored as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria by the Banker Magazine and has received several “Bank of the Year” awards from various reputable organizations.