Jim Ovia is a Nigerian businessman, philanthropist, and the founder of Zenith Bank, one of the largest banks in Africa. He is also the chairman of Visafone Communications, a Nigerian mobile telecommunications company. Ovia has a net worth of $1.1 billion, according to Forbes.
Biography of Jim Ovia:
Full Name: Jim James Ovia
Date of Birth: November 4, 1951
Place of Birth: Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria
Nationality: Nigerian
Education:
- Southern University, Louisiana, USA: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration
- University of Louisiana, Monroe, USA: Master’s degree in Business Administration
- Harvard Business School, USA: Executive Management Program
Occupation: Businessman, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist
Known For: Founder of Zenith Bank
Family: Jim Ovia is married to Kay Ovia, and they have several children together. His wife is a notable entrepreneur in Nigeria, leading various business ventures, including Digital Bridge Institute.
Career and Achievements
Jim Ovia is a prominent Nigerian businessman known for founding Zenith Bank, one of Africa’s largest and most profitable banks. Established in 1990, the bank has grown significantly under his leadership, expanding its operations across Nigeria and internationally. Jim Ovia served as the CEO of Zenith Bank from 1990 until his retirement in 2010 and continues to be a significant influence as the bank’s chairman.
Ovia is also involved in various other business ventures. He is the founder of Visafone Communications Limited, which became one of Nigeria’s leading mobile service providers before it was acquired by MTN Nigeria in 2015.
In addition to his business pursuits, Jim Ovia is a noted philanthropist. He founded the Jim Ovia Foundation, which focuses on education and skill development for Nigerian youth. The foundation offers scholarships and empowers young people through ICT training and other educational programs.
Net Worth 2024
As of 2024, Jim Ovia’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $1 billion. His wealth primarily comes from his extensive investments in banking and telecommunications, as well as his holdings in real estate and other sectors.
Contact Information
For inquiries related to Jim Ovia’s business or philanthropic activities, you can contact him through the following official channels:
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Zenith Bank Headquarters:
Address: Plot 84, Ajose Adeogun Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Phone: +234-1-2787000, +234-1-2927000
Website: Zenith Bank -
Jim Ovia Foundation:
Email: [email protected]
Website: Jim Ovia Foundation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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What is Jim Ovia’s role at Zenith Bank?
Jim Ovia is the founder and chairman of Zenith Bank. He played a pivotal role in its growth and development into one of Africa’s leading financial institutions. -
What are the main activities of the Jim Ovia Foundation?
The Jim Ovia Foundation focuses on education and skill development for Nigerian youth, providing scholarships and ICT training programs to empower the next generation. -
How did Jim Ovia accumulate his wealth?
Jim Ovia accumulated his wealth primarily through his involvement in banking and telecommunications. His investments and leadership in Zenith Bank and Visafone Communications significantly contributed to his financial success. -
Is Jim Ovia involved in any other businesses?
Yes, apart from banking, Jim Ovia has interests in telecommunications, real estate, and other sectors. His entrepreneurial activities extend beyond Zenith Bank, contributing to his diversified portfolio. -
What is Jim Ovia’s educational background?
Jim Ovia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Southern University, Louisiana, a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Louisiana, Monroe, and has completed an Executive Management Program at Harvard Business School.
If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask!