📍 Location: Guildhall, London
🗓️ Date: April 7–8, 2025
🏅 Event: Freedom of the City of London Award
🎖️ Honouree: Jim Ovia, Founder and Chairman, Zenith Bank
The Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe (Agbogidi), stood among global dignitaries on April 7, 2025, as he celebrated one of Nigeria’s most influential business icons — Jim Ovia — during a landmark recognition ceremony in London.
A Global Nod to Nigerian Excellence
Jim Ovia was conferred with the Freedom of the City of London, a prestigious honour reserved for individuals who have made monumental contributions to commerce, innovation, and international relations. His recognition celebrates a legacy of:
- Transformational leadership in banking and finance
- Advancement of technology in Africa
- Strengthening global economic ties, particularly between Nigeria and the UK
The award was a highlight of the Commonwealth Business and Investment Council’s two-day conference, underscoring Ovia’s global stature in shaping Africa’s financial evolution.
🇳🇬 National Pride: Tinubu, Agbogidi React
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended warm congratulations, describing the honour as a testament to Ovia’s visionary leadership and his instrumental role in elevating Nigeria’s tech-driven financial services sector to international standards.
Agbogidi, the Obi of Onitsha, expressed profound pride, calling the award a beacon of recognition not only for Ovia but for Nigeria’s intellectual and entrepreneurial excellence. He offered royal blessings and encouraged continued impact from the Zenith Bank founder on the world stage.
“This honour speaks volumes of Mr. Ovia’s enduring legacy and the global appreciation for his innovation and service to humanity,” — Agbogidi
A Milestone Moment
Jim Ovia’s London honour marks yet another chapter in his illustrious career — one that continues to inspire leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators across Africa and beyond. The ceremony resonated with pride across Nigeria, highlighting the nation’s rising influence in global business and technology.
A fitting celebration of a titan whose legacy transcends borders.
