By Funsho Arogundade
As a young boy from the small town of Agbor in Delta State who was raised by his mum – his father died when he was just four – the story of banking magnate, Jim James Ovia is an inspiring diary of a journey from poverty, struggle and loss to global success and prosperity. He typifies a soul who enjoys abundant luck and grace of God, particularly when you consider his intimidating profile. Indeed, it is no exaggeration to say that his life epitomises tenacity of purpose.
Many would not forget in a hurry when this enigmatic gentleman took a leap of faith as he teamed up with some few investors to establish Zenith Bank as a small commercial bank in 1990. Then, this financial guru, who started out as a clerk with the defunct Barclays Bank, knew it would someday grow to be an iroko. Indeed, Ovia wanted so much more out of life and he pursued his ambition with abiding trust in God. This billionaire, who has turned a glittering star in the business firmament, saw the dream becoming a reality in his lifetime as he has built one of Africa’s biggest Tier-1 banks with assets of almost $20 billion.
Recently, the bank clocked 35 and it was a time to celebrate with Ovia, the legendary founder of the institution and the bank’s phenomenal successes. At a lavish soiree tagged ‘Chairman’s Dinner’ held at the prestigious Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Ovia was honoured with the presence of top billionaires, industry leaders, and captains of enterprise. Indeed, the evening was nothing short of iconic amidst pomp and pageantry layered with a mixture of glitz and glamour. Kashim Shettima, Nigeria’s Vice President and a proud alumnus of the bank, praised Ovia for being at the heart of the very successful brand that today stands as Nigeria’s largest bank by Tier-One capital.
Ovia, 74, has unarguably earned his stripes in the Nigerian banking industry. His financial fundamentals are strong and he has the complete capability to fully meet all financing requirements of any project in its proposed phases. As an astute businessman, Ovia has extended his imprints to telecoms, education and real estate. In fact, Ovia has made a lasting physical impression on the Lagos skyline with his two architectural masterpieces —the Civic Centre and Civic Towers— illuminating popular Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue in Victoria Island.