Zenith Bank Plc has announced the opening of a new branch in Manchester, United Kingdom, as part of its ongoing international expansion strategy aimed at strengthening financial linkages between Africa and global markets.
The branch, officially set to be inaugurated on March 17, 2026, is expected to draw a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, regulators, investors, and business leaders. The event reflects deepening economic cooperation and growing cross-border investment opportunities between both regions.
Positioned as a strategic hub, the Manchester office will complement the bank’s existing UK presence and support businesses engaged in international trade. It is expected to offer a suite of services including corporate banking, trade finance and treasury operations, targeting clients across the UK, Europe and Africa.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Adaora Umeoji described the expansion as a key step in the bank’s ambition to connect African businesses with global markets. She noted that Manchester’s status as a leading commercial centre makes it an ideal location to deepen financial and trade relationships.
Founded in 1990 by Jim Ovia, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, known for its strong capital base and consistent profitability. Headquartered in Lagos, the bank operates more than 500 branches across Nigeria and maintains subsidiaries in countries such as Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire.
Beyond Africa, the bank has established a presence in key global financial centres including the UK, France, the United Arab Emirates and China, reflecting its strategy to support international trade and investment flows involving the continent.
Manchester, widely recognised as one of the UK’s most dynamic economic hubs, offers a diverse business environment spanning manufacturing, technology, logistics and consumer industries. Zenith Bank said the new branch will work closely with its London operations and broader international network to help clients expand across markets.
The move underscores the bank’s broader vision of building a globally integrated African financial institution capable of facilitating trade, driving investment and strengthening economic ties between Africa and the rest of the world.