Olufemi Adeyemi 

Zenith Bank Plc has broadened its international presence with the inauguration of Zenith Bank (UK), Paris Branch. The official launch occurred on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at 21 Rue de la Paix, Paris, France, and was officiated by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun.

The establishment of Zenith Bank, Paris, as a Third-Country Branch (TCB) of Zenith Bank (UK) Limited, a subsidiary of Zenith Bank Plc, marks a significant achievement in the bank’s global expansion strategy and highlights its dedication to serving clients in the European market.

The launch of Zenith Bank in Paris was made possible after the final approval was granted by France’s banking regulator, the Autorité de Contrôle Prudentiel et de Résolution (ACPR), in September 2024, enabling the branch to begin its operations. Prior to this, in November 2023, Zenith Bank enhanced its relationship with France by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the French Government to create a subsidiary in the country. The MoU was executed in Lagos by Jim Ovia, CFR, the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, and Mr. Olivier Becht, the French Minister for Trade, Attractiveness and French Nationals Abroad, during the visit of the French envoy to Nigeria.

In her opening remarks, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank, expressed her gratitude to the Founder & Chairman, Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR, for his visionary leadership in establishing a brand that has achieved numerous accolades and set records. 

She elaborated on the strategic rationale behind the bank's expansion into Paris, stating, “The launch of our Paris branch is a key component of our strategy to broaden our presence in major global financial hubs and to support our customers' business endeavors. This new branch will enhance our ability to serve clients and strengthen trade and financial connections between our customers in France and other nations. Zenith Bank's foray into France is particularly strategic, as Nigeria represents 20% of France’s trade with Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the Franco-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI). 

Having established a stronghold in much of Anglophone Africa, we intend to utilize our Paris operations to penetrate the Francophone market, beginning with the establishment of subsidiaries in Ivory Coast and Cameroon shortly. This initiative will promote business and trade interactions between Africa and France, a significant partner for many African nations.”

During the event, Mr. Wale Edun, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, remarked, “I believe that one of the benefits of fostering trust in Nigerian institutions globally is exemplified by today’s event—the inauguration of Zenith Bank in Paris. The bank's presence here will undoubtedly enhance the confidence of the French business community, allowing them to explore opportunities in Africa and facilitating their entry into Nigeria. We are pleased to be part of this momentous occasion.”

Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group, extended his congratulations to Zenith Bank for its significant achievement. He expressed his enthusiasm for this strategic move, stating, “I want to commend Zenith Bank for this accomplishment in establishing a branch here in Paris. I assure you that without institutions like Zenith Bank and other Nigerian banks, our group would not have reached its current standing, as no nation can thrive without a robust banking sector.”

Bertrand Dumont, Director General of the Treasury in France, remarked, “This development is a vital asset for facilitating business between our two nations and across our continents. I wish you great success in this venture, and I look forward to being invited again in the near future to witness the expansion of your operations as a testament to your success.”

Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, Chairman of the France-Nigeria Business Council (FNBC), reflected on the past, saying, “Fifteen years ago, Dr. Jim Ovia, then CEO of Zenith Bank, welcomed me as the CEO of Access Bank to the UK, where we joined other banks in pioneering banking operations. Now, fifteen years later, I proudly welcome you to Paris, celebrating the importance of this event. This kind of intentional leadership and collaboration embodies the mission we pursue at the France-Nigeria Business Council. On behalf of the French people, I simply say to Zenith – Bonne Arrivee!”





Zenith Bank, Paris serves as a pivotal global financial center aimed at enhancing trade, boosting trade flows, and fostering connections between Europe and Africa. This branch will offer an extensive array of services similar to those provided by the UK headquarters, including corporate banking, trade finance, and treasury services for both individual and corporate clients in France and the broader European market. Additionally, the branch will utilize the bank’s robust global network and expertise to deliver customized solutions to its clientele. 

Notable attendees at the event included His Excellency AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Governor of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF); His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State; His Excellency Adedapo Abiodun, CON, Governor of Ogun State; His Excellency Dr. Peter Mbah, Governor of Enugu State; Abdul Samad Rabiu, GCON, Chairman of BUA Group; Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Honourable Minister of State for Finance; Aisha Rimi, Chief Executive Officer/Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC); and Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). 

These dignitaries joined Zenith Bank executives in commemorating this important milestone, which underscored the bank’s commitment to providing outstanding financial services and promoting economic development worldwide.