Adaora Umeoji’s appointment as the first female Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer in Zenith Bank’s 34-year history marks a watershed moment for women in African banking. Umeoji has been an integral part of Zenith Bank for nearly three decades and brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served as deputy managing director since 2016.

Her journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge. She holds degrees from multiple universities, including the University of Jos and Baze University, Abuja. She’s also a graduate of prestigious executive programs at Harvard Business School and Columbia Business School, demonstrating her commitment to continuous development in the dynamic world of finance.

Umeoji’s reach extends far beyond professional success. As the founder of the Pink Breath Cancer Care Foundation and the Adorable Foundation, she passionately champions healthcare and humanitarian causes. The Pink Breath Cancer Care Foundation combats cancer by providing crucial medical care across Nigeria. The Adorable Foundation offers support to displaced individuals, providing relief materials and essential resources.
Her service has been recognized on the national stage; she received the Officer of the Order of the Niger award from the Nigerian government in 2022 and was named a United Nations Peace Advocate. These honors highlight her dedication to using her platform to uplift her community.

Umeoji’s appointment is indicative of Zenith Bank’s forward-thinking approach and serves as an inspiration to women across Africa. Her ascent to this prominent leadership role proves that talent and dedication can shatter glass ceilings in male-dominated sectors, paving the way for a more inclusive future in the world of finance.

Ntianu Obiora
+ posts

Ntianu Obiora is a versatile creative professional with over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, communications, and digital strategy. She is the Online Editor at THEWILL DOWNTOWN