April 28, (THEWILL) — Zenith Bank Plc has launched its Côte d’Ivoire subsidiary, marking a major step in its Pan-African expansion and a strategic push into Francophone West Africa.
The new subsidiary, Zenith Bank Côte d’Ivoire, will be officially inaugurated on April 29, 2026, in Abidjan.
The event is expected to attract senior government officials, regulators, and business leaders, reflecting deepening economic ties between Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire.
Licensed in December 2025 by the Ivorian Ministry of Finance and Budget and regulated by the UMOA Banking Commission, the subsidiary will operate from its headquarters in Plateau, Abidjan.
It is positioned to strengthen financial intermediation within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) and support cross-border trade and investment flows.
The bank will offer corporate banking, trade finance, and structured financial solutions tailored to businesses operating across Africa and global markets.
Group Managing Director, Adaora Umeoji, said the expansion aligns with the founding vision of Jim Ovia to build a globally competitive African institution.
The subsidiary will be led by Cédric Tano, who noted its role in supporting economic growth and regional integration.
Zenith Bank said the move complements its broader strategy, including planned entry into Central Africa, while reinforcing its footprint across Africa and key international markets.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
