Zenith Bank has launched a new subsidiary in Côte d’Ivoire, marking a major step in its expansion drive across Francophone West Africa.
The bank disclosed that the subsidiary, licensed in December 2025 by the Ivorian Ministry of Finance and Budget and regulated by the UMOA Banking Commission, will officially commence operations from its headquarters in Abidjan.
The launch is part of Zenith Bank’s broader Pan-African strategy aimed at deepening financial inclusion and strengthening cross-border trade within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU).
Speaking ahead of the official opening, Adaora Umeoji, group managing director and CEO described the move as a significant milestone in the bank’s vision to build a globally recognised African financial institution.
She said the expansion aligns with the long-term vision of Jim Ovia, the bank’s founder and chairman to establish a strong presence across key African and international markets.
According to her, the new subsidiary will serve as a strategic gateway for trade and investment, offering services such as corporate banking, trade finance, and structured financial solutions to businesses operating within and beyond Africa.
The bank also confirmed that the Côte d’Ivoire arm will be led by Cédric Tano, managing director/CEO who is expected to drive operations and position the institution as a key player in the regional financial ecosystem.
Industry analysts say the move reflects growing competition among Nigerian banks to expand into Francophone markets, as institutions seek to diversify revenue streams and tap into emerging economic opportunities.
With an existing footprint across countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, the United Kingdom, and China, Zenith Bank’s latest expansion underscores its ambition to bridge African markets with global financial systems.
