Shareholders have commended the retired Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, for his contributions to the growth of the bank and the transformation of  the banking industry.

Mr Ovia retired on May 5 after serving the mandatory 12 years as chairman in line with regulations of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

The shareholders, who spoke in separate interviews on Sunday, said that Mr Ovia’s   visionary leadership positioned Zenith Bank among the leading financial institutions in Nigeria and beyond.

The National Coordinator of the Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Boniface Okezie, said Mr Ovia played a major role in modernising banking operations and introducing technology-driven services in the industry.

“He transformed the banking landscape through technology-driven services at a time when people had almost lost hope in the banking industry,” he said.

According to Mr Okezie, Zenith Bank consistently rewarded shareholders through strong dividend payments and capital appreciation.

“Zenith Bank today remains one of the strongest banks in the country because of the solid foundation he laid,” he said.

Mr Okezie added that Mr Ovia’s retirement would not create a vacuum because the bank had built strong corporate governance structures and competent management teams.

Also, the National Coordinator of the Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Moses Igbrude, described Mr Ovia as a banker who had “come, conquered and delivered value.”

“He has done very well in restructuring and positioning the bank. Zenith Bank has remained consistent in paying good dividends to shareholders,” he said.

Mr Igbrude expressed optimism that the bank would sustain its performance under a new leadership.

Chairperson of the Highly Favoured Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Adetutu Shiyanbola, described Mr Ovia’s achievements as outstanding.

Ms Shiyanbola stated, “He built a strong institution and laid a foundation that will continue to support the growth of the bank.”

(NAN)