Zenith Bank Seeks Stronger Collaboration with Ogun, Commends Abiodun’s Development Drive
The Management of Zenith Bank Plc has applauded the Administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for what it described as sweeping infrastructural and economic transformation across Ogun State, while expressing readiness to deepen institutional collaboration.
The Bank’s delegation, led by Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Adaorah Umeoji, paid a courtesy visit to the Governor on Tuesday March 3, at the Oke Mosan Government House. Other members of the team included Executive Director Akin Ogunranti; Assistant General Manager/Zonal Head Southwest 3, Mrs. Joke Akinosi; and Afolake Ogunfowora.
Speaking during the engagement, Umeoji commended the visible improvements in road infrastructure and the broader development landscape, describing them as clear indicators of purposeful leadership.
She noted that the smooth road network leading to the Government House was reflective of the administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and economic growth.
Umeoji explained that the visit was also strategic, aimed at exploring additional areas of cooperation with the State Government, building on a banking relationship spanning over two decades. She emphasized that Ogun State holds strategic importance for Zenith Bank and expressed optimism that the meeting would mark the beginning of a renewed phase of mutually beneficial engagement.
Also speaking, Ogunranti described the interaction as a significant step toward consolidating ties between the financial institution and the state. He characterized Ogun as business-friendly and receptive to investment, attributing the growing presence of manufacturing firms—many of them Zenith Bank customers—to the Government’s sustained infrastructure investments.
He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting the State’s development agenda and pledged continued partnership in advancing projects that enhance socio-economic outcomes for residents.
In his response, Governor Abiodun welcomed the delegation and appreciated the Bank’s longstanding relationship with Ogun State. He reiterated his administration’s openness to structured partnerships that deliver measurable value to citizens.
The Governor proposed the constitution of a joint working team comprising representatives of the bank and the State Government to develop clear modalities for seamless and productive collaboration.
Highlighting Ogun’s comparative advantages, Abiodun cited its proximity to Lagos, rich natural resource base, expanding infrastructure network, and reputation as Nigeria’s industrial hub. He disclosed that the state now features an operational airport, newly discovered oil deposits, and two proposed dry ports, in addition to over 1,600 kilometres of completed and ongoing road projects.
The Governor further stated that his Administration’s development framework, anchored on the ISEYA pillars, has strengthened Ogun’s standing in education, ease of doing business, and housing delivery, with approximately 7,000 housing units delivered within six years.
Senior Government Officials present at the meeting included the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Oluwatoyin Taiwo; Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo; Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela; and Special Adviser to the Governor, Seye Ogunleye.
