Joy Agwunobi
Jim Ovia, the founder and chairman of Zenith Bank Plc has been formally admitted into the prestigious Freedom of the City of London.
The historic ceremony , hailed by the Nigerian government amongst global and national dignitaries, took place recently at the Mansion House, marking a significant chapter in Jim Ovia’s journey of achievements.
With this latest accolade, Ovia becomes part of an elite circle of global icons who have received the Freedom of the City honour—joining the ranks of figures such as Nelson Mandela, Bill Gates, Sir Winston Churchill, Desmond Tutu, Morgan Freeman, Harry Kane, and Ian Wright.
The symbolic honour, which dates back to the 13th century, stands as one of the oldest surviving traditional ceremonies in the United Kingdom. Once associated with special rights and privileges for citizens of London, the Freedom of the City serves as a symbolic gesture of gratitude towards individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to society.
Ovia’s recognition comes as a nod to his transformative influence on Nigeria’s banking industry, his far-reaching impact on Africa’s financial sector, and his tireless efforts to drive inclusive development through philanthropy and innovation.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including Olusegun Obasanjo, former Nigerian President; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Governor; Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta State Governor; Peter Mbah, Enugu State Governor; Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group; Doris Uzoka-Anite, minister of State for Finance; Jumoke Oduwole, minister of Industry, Trade and Investment; Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Abdulwasiu Lawal, Oba of Oniru; Rahul Savara, group managing director, TGI Group; Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, Obi of Onitsha; and his Eminence John Cardinal Onaiyekan, who joined Zenith Bank Executives in celebrating this milestone.
Ovia’s accolade in London adds to a long list of honours he has received for his contributions to the banking industry, education, and philanthropy. Notably, in 2022, he was awarded the national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) and the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) by the Nigerian government. In addition, he has been named Banker of the Year (2007) and Titan of the Year (2024) by ThisDay Newspaper and received the African Business Leader Award from the Africa-America Institute.
He also holds honorary doctorate degrees from the University of Lagos and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and was named by Forbes Africa as one of the most influential figures in African banking.
Commenting on the honour, Ovia described the recognition as a collective victory for Nigeria and the African continent.
“It is indeed a great honour to be admitted to the prestigious Freedom of the City of London. This is not just a recognition of my personal achievements, but also a testament to the tireless efforts of the entire Zenith team who have worked diligently to establish our institution as a leading force in global finance. I am proud to be part of a legacy that celebrates innovation, excellence and the spirit of entrepreneurship,” he stated.
He further dedicated the award to the people of Nigeria and Africa, whose resilience and drive, he said, continue to inspire his vision and commitment to creating meaningful change across sectors.
In a congratulatory message, President Bola Tinubu, through Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, praised Ovia’s enduring contributions to national and global development. He described the Freedom of the City recognition as a well-deserved honour that reflects Ovia’s trailblazing role in business, innovation, and economic diplomacy.
“This honour is a testament to your unwavering commitment to excellence, your pioneering role in the growth of the financial services sector in Nigeria, and your visionary leadership that continues to inspire generations,” the President stated.
President Tinubu added that Ovia’s global recognition affirms the place of Nigerian enterprise and innovation on the world stage.
As the founder of one of Nigeria’s most prominent financial institutions, Jim Ovia has not only helped redefine banking standards in Nigeria but also contributed significantly to fostering youth empowerment, tech advancement, and educational opportunities across the continent.
