Jim Ovia, CFR, Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, has been conferred with the prestigious Freedom of the City of London in a distinguished ceremony held at the Mansion House, City of London, on Monday, April 7, 2025.
This esteemed recognition underscores Mr. Ovia’s remarkable contributions to the global financial industry, his unwavering commitment to economic development, and his dedication to philanthropy, which has positively impacted many lives.
The Freedom of the City of London, a tradition dating back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest surviving civic honours in the United Kingdom.
While it historically granted freemen various privileges within the city, today, it serves as a symbolic accolade for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to London or society at large.
With this honour, Mr. Ovia joins an elite group of distinguished personalities, including Nelson Mandela, Bill Gates, Sir Winston Churchill, Desmond Tutu, Harry Kane, Morgan Freeman, and Ian Wright.
Reflecting on his new status, Jim Ovia, CFR, expressed gratitude, stating, “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. 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.”
President Bola Tinubu, in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, congratulated Mr. Ovia on this remarkable achievement.
The President commended him for being a distinguished ambassador of Nigeria’s private sector and described the honour as a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding contributions to business, innovation, and technology, as well as his pivotal role in strengthening economic ties between Africa and the global community.
“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,” President Tinubu stated.
The ceremony was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including former Nigerian President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sherrif Oborevwori; Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah; 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; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; 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. They were joined by Zenith Bank executives in celebrating this milestone.
This prestigious recognition adds to Mr. Ovia’s long list of accolades for his exceptional contributions to banking, education, and philanthropy.
He was conferred with the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) and the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2022.
Additionally, he was named Banker of the Year in 2007 and Titan of the Year in 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper. He also received the African Business Leader Award from the Africa-America Institute and holds honorary degrees from the University of Lagos and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Forbes Africa has also acknowledged him as one of the most influential figures in banking.
