Nigeria’s Zenith Bank opens new branch in Manchester, expanding UK presence

Zenith Bank Plc, a Lagos-based financial services group led by Nigerian banker Adaora Umeoji, has opened a new branch in Manchester, United Kingdom, extending its international reach and strengthening links between African and global markets.

The launch, set for Tuesday, March 17, 2026, is expected to draw government officials from Nigeria and the UK, regulators, investors and business leaders, reflecting deepening commercial ties between both countries.

Expanding UK presence 

The Manchester branch adds to the bank’s existing UK operations and is designed to support companies involved in cross-border trade and investment. It will offer corporate banking, trade finance and treasury services to clients operating across the UK, Europe and Africa. 

Speaking ahead of the launch, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Adaora Umeoji said the move strengthens the bank’s role in linking businesses across markets. 

“Manchester is one of the United Kingdom’s key commercial centres,” she said. “Our presence here will help connect businesses in the UK with opportunities across Africa.”

Building on an international network 

Founded in 1990 by Chairman Jim Ovia, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s largest lenders, with a presence across multiple markets.

It operates more than 500 branches in Nigeria and subsidiaries in Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire, alongside offices in global financial centres including London, Paris, Dubai and China. 

The Manchester branch is expected to work closely with the bank’s London office and wider network to support clients expanding into new markets.

Manchester’s economy spans manufacturing, engineering, logistics, technology and consumer goods, making it a natural fit for the bank’s corporate and trade finance offerings. 

The move follows the bank’s recent push to broaden its international footprint, including the launch of its Paris branch in late 2024.

Leadership and performance 

Umeoji, who took over as CEO in June 2024, has spent nearly three decades in banking, including more than 20 years in senior roles at Zenith. She also serves as chairperson of Zenith Nominees Limited and sits on the board of Zenith Bank (Ghana) Plc. 

Since her appointment, the bank has reported steady financial performance. Gross earnings rose 16% year-on-year to N3.4 trillion ($2.5 billion) in the third quarter of 2025, supported by a 41% increase in interest income. 

With the Manchester opening, Zenith Bank is widening its international reach while positioning itself to serve companies seeking opportunities between Africa and global markets.