Zenith Bank’s projects stronger growth as H1 2025 earnings hit N2.5trn

promises exceptional year-end dividend

By Seun Ibiyemi

Zenith Bank Plc’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, has assured shareholders of stronger value creation following the Bank’s impressive half-year 2025 results, which saw gross earnings rise 20 per cent year-on-year to N2.5 trillion.

Commenting on the performance, Umeoji said the results underscore the innovation and resilience of Zenith Bank’s workforce despite a dynamic operating environment.

She noted that profit before tax climbed to N625.6 billion while profit after tax closed at N532 billion, with earnings per share at N12.95 for the period under review.

“Despite the huge provisioning requirements as the industry exits the CBN forbearance regime, we have seen substantial improvement in our asset quality. 

Our balance sheet remains robust with adequate capital buffers, positioning us well to seize opportunities across our key markets,” Umeoji stated.

She said "the Bank’s net interest income surged by 90 per cent to N1.4 trillion, supported by a 60 per cent growth in interest income to N1.8 trillion, while non-interest income contributed N613 billion. 

Total assets expanded to N31 trillion, with deposits rising 7 per cent to N23 trillion, underscoring customer confidence in the brand.

Looking ahead, the CEO expressed optimism that the Bank will accelerate its growth trajectory in the second half of 2025, promising shareholders a “quantum year-end dividend.”

“Our shareholders can look forward to continued value creation as we leverage emerging opportunities and maintain our strategic growth with strong corporate governance culture,” she said.

Umeoji reaffirmed Zenith Bank’s commitment to innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability, stressing that the Bank is well placed to sustain momentum into 2026 while maintaining its leadership in corporate governance and financial performance.