Zenith Bank Plc has once again secured its position among Nigeria’s top-performing financial institutions, emerging as the most profitable bank in the country for 2025, and ranking second overall in the annual national banking index.
According to the latest 2025 Nigerian Bank Rankings released by industry experts and verified by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Zenith Bank recorded a record-breaking ₦940 billion profit-before-tax, outpacing all competitors in profitability, return on equity, and shareholder value.
The bank, founded in 1990 and widely respected for its prudent financial management, also grew its total assets to over ₦17.3 trillion, consolidating its place as Nigeria’s second-largest bank by asset size, just behind Access Bank Plc.
Zenith Bank’s 2025 Ranking Highlights:
- Ranking Position: #2 Overall
- Profit Before Tax (PBT): ₦940 billion (highest in sector)
- Total Assets: ₦17.3 trillion
- Customer Base: Estimated at 45 million
- Shareholder Dividend Payout: Among the highest on the NGX
- Digital Rating: A+ for digital banking innovation and cybersecurity
Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, attributed the performance to the bank’s commitment to risk management, innovation, and operational excellence.
“This result reflects the strength of our brand, our people, and our unwavering focus on delivering value to customers and shareholders,” he stated.
Why Zenith Bank Remains a Market Leader
- Unmatched Profitability: For over a decade, Zenith has led the Nigerian banking sector in net earnings.
- Digital Transformation: With award-winning mobile platforms and AI-based customer service, Zenith continues to set the pace for digital banking in West Africa.
- Corporate Governance: The bank is often cited for transparency, compliance, and strong internal controls.
- Pan-African Reach: Strategic partnerships and correspondent banking networks extend its influence beyond Nigeria.
Industry Analysts React
Financial analyst Ngozi Ibe notes:
“Zenith Bank’s financial structure is one of the strongest in Africa. It’s a no-risk brand for investors, and their discipline in managing cost and risk is textbook.”
2025 Banking Outlook
While Access Bank leads the pack in asset size and geographical expansion, Zenith Bank continues to dominate in profit, efficiency, and technological advancement — making it a cornerstone of Nigeria’s financial stability and investor confidence.
Zenith Bank’s consistent top-tier ranking cements its legacy as one of Nigeria’s most formidable financial institutions, with sights set on expanding its dominance into new markets in Africa and beyond.