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BY ABU-SATAR HAMED
FCT, ABUJA, NIGERIA – President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR, on his recent admission into the prestigious Freedom of the City of London.
The honour was bestowed upon Jim Ovia on Monday, April 7, 2025, during a distinguished ceremony held at the Mansion House in the City of London.
In a press statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended Mr. Ovia for being a distinguished ambassador of Nigeria’s private sector.
The President described the Freedom of the City honour as a fitting recognition of Ovia’s exceptional contributions to business, innovation, and technology.
He praised Ovia’s role in shaping Nigeria’s financial landscape and enhancing economic ties between Africa and the rest of the world.
President Tinubu’s statement read: “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.
“As an accomplished entrepreneur and advocate of innovation-driven development, your recognition in the City of London affirms the global relevance of Nigerian excellence and enterprise.”
The award stands as a testament to Mr. Ovia’s outstanding contributions to the global financial sector, his steadfast commitment to economic development, and his dedication to philanthropic efforts that have positively impacted numerous lives.
Speaking on his recognition as a Freeman of the City of London, Jim Ovia, CFR, expressed his deep gratitude. “It is indeed a great honour to be admitted to the prestigious Freedom of the City of London. This is not just 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. I dedicate this to the people of Nigeria and Africa who continue to inspire me with their resilience and determination. I look forward to continuing to play a role in shaping the economic landscape of our great continent and beyond.”
The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries including former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori; and Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah.
Others in attendance were President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON; Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, MFR; and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
Traditional and business leaders including the Oba of Oniru, Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal; Group Managing Director of TGI Group, Rahul Savara; Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR; and His Eminence John Cardinal Onaiyekan, joined Zenith Bank Executives to celebrate the milestone.
The Freedom of the City of London is a centuries-old tradition dating back to the 13th century. Originally, it conferred certain rights and privileges to freemen of the city. Today, it stands as a symbolic honour bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to London or the wider society.
With this honour, Jim Ovia joins a distinguished group of previous recipients, which includes global figures such as Nelson Mandela, Bill Gates, Sir Winston Churchill, Desmond Tutu, Harry Kane, Morgan Freeman, and Ian Wright.
This recognition adds to a long list of accolades received by Mr. Ovia for his outstanding achievements in banking, education, and philanthropy. He was conferred with the national honours of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) and the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award in 2022 by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
He was also named Banker of the Year in 2007 and Titan of the Year in 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper, and received the African Business Leader Award from the Africa-America Institute.
Jim Ovia holds honorary degrees from both the University of Lagos and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He was also recognised by Forbes Africa as one of the most influential figures in African banking.
