Zenith Bank Plc has once again reaffirmed its dominance in Nigeria’s banking sector by maintaining its position as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the 16th consecutive year. This recognition comes from the 2025 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, a globally respected publication compiled annually by The Banker, part of the Financial Times Group based in the United Kingdom.

The latest edition, published in July 2025, places Zenith Bank at No. 581 globally, with a reported Tier-1 Capital of $2 billion as of the 2024 fiscal year-end. The ranking evaluates the capital strength and global standing of financial institutions based on Tier-1 Capital—a globally accepted measure of a bank’s financial strength and resilience against economic or credit shocks.

Tier-1 Capital, as defined by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), consists of a bank’s core capital, including common equity, disclosed reserves, retained earnings, and minority interests in subsidiaries. It serves as a cushion against unexpected financial losses and is a major determinant of a bank’s ability to operate sustainably during periods of financial distress.

Maintaining a strong Tier-1 Capital base enhances a bank’s credibility and fosters confidence among investors, depositors, regulators, and international rating agencies. It is also often used as a benchmark by institutional investors when making decisions about partnerships, credit facilities, or portfolio allocations.

Reacting to the announcement, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, described the achievement as a milestone and a reflection of the bank’s consistent excellence in financial management and operational strategy.

“We are thrilled to have retained our position as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the 16th consecutive year,” said Umeoji in an official statement issued on Thursday.
“This accomplishment highlights the strength of our balance sheet, our disciplined risk management culture, and our unwavering commitment to delivering superior value to our customers and shareholders.”

She further acknowledged the vision and legacy of Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank, whose strategic foresight and leadership laid the groundwork for the bank’s long-standing success.

“We owe much of our resilience and reputation to the solid foundation laid by our founder and chairman, Mr. Jim Ovia. His transformative leadership has built a financial institution that continues to set standards both locally and internationally,” she added.

Umeoji also extended her appreciation to Zenith’s loyal customers, its forward-thinking Board of Directors, and the bank’s workforce, describing them as the bedrock of its enduring success.

A Stellar Year: Financial Performance in 2024

Zenith Bank’s inclusion among the world’s top 600 banks is not surprising when measured against its exceptional financial performance in 2024. The bank recorded impressive double-digit growth across all major financial indicators.

According to the audited financial results filed with the Nigerian Exchange (NGX): Gross earnings rose by 86%, from ₦2.13 trillion in 2023 to ₦3.97 trillion in 2024, Interest income increased by 138%, fueled by strategic investments in high-yield government securities and growth in the bank’s loan portfolio, Profit before tax rose by 67%, reaching ₦1.3 trillion, up from ₦796 billion in the previous year, The bank declared a total dividend of ₦195.67 billion, translating to ₦5.00 per share, delivering strong returns to its shareholders.

This level of performance is seen as a testament to Zenith Bank’s ability to effectively navigate Nigeria’s complex economic environment, manage risk prudently, and generate sustainable revenue.

Zenith Bank’s continued ranking as Nigeria’s top bank by capital strength comes at a time when competition in the banking sector is intense, with institutions expanding digital services, driving financial inclusion, and responding to global banking reforms.

Despite a challenging macroeconomic environment—including high inflation, currency fluctuations, and evolving regulatory frameworks—Zenith Bank has remained stable, agile, and profitable. Its commitment to sound governance, digital innovation, and customer service has helped it stand out in a crowded market.

Moreover, the bank’s presence extends beyond Nigeria, with subsidiaries and operations in Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and the United Kingdom, as well as representative offices in major financial hubs like Dubai and China, giving it a global footprint and access to diverse markets.

Driving the Future of Nigerian Banking

Zenith Bank has not only achieved consistency in financial performance but also in innovation, technology, and corporate social responsibility. It continues to lead in digital transformation, launching platforms and mobile solutions that enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.

In recent years, the bank has invested heavily in AI-powered platforms, blockchain research, and fintech collaborations, positioning itself for leadership in the future of banking.

Its corporate social investments span across education, healthcare, youth development, and environmental sustainability, further reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate citizen.

A Legacy of Leadership and a Vision for the Future

Founded in 1990, Zenith Bank has grown from a modest operation into one of Africa’s largest and most influential financial institutions. Its consistent performance and global recognition are a testament to its strong leadership, corporate values, and strategic agility.

As the global economy enters an era of uncertainty marked by technological disruption, geopolitical shifts, and climate-related financial risk, Zenith Bank’s strong capital base, ethical leadership, and forward-looking strategies place it in a strong position to adapt and lead.

“This recognition is not merely a symbol of our past success,” said Umeoji. “It is a call to continue raising the bar—to innovate, to grow sustainably, and to build a banking institution that can compete on the global stage while serving the aspirations of every Nigerian.”