Who is Jim Ovia?
Jim James Ovia (born November 4, 1951) is a well-known Nigerian businessman, he is the founder of Zenith Bank which he founded in 1990.
Profile Summary
| Name: | Jim Ovia |
| Full Name: | Jim James Ovia |
| Date of Birth: | November 4, 1951 |
| Age: | 73 years (2024) |
| Place of Birth: | Agbor |
| State of Origin: | Delta State |
| Net Worth: | $30 millions |
Early Life and Education
Jim James Ovia was born on November 4, 1951, in Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria. Jim Ovia holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Louisiana, Monroe, Louisiana, USA in 1979 and a B.Sc. degree in Business Administration from Southern University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA in 1977. He is also an Alumnus of Harvard Business School.
Jim Ovia Career
He is the founder of Zenith Bank Plc, Nigeria’s tier-1 bank and one of the most profitable financial institutions in Nigeria until 2010, when he moved into the chairman role. He was the recipient of a Nigerian national honor.
Ovia is the founder of Visafone Communications Limited and the chairman of both the Nigerian Software Development Initiative (NSDI) and the National Information Technology Advisory Council (NITAC).
He is a member of the Honorary International Investor Council as well as the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI). He is the Chairman of Cyberspace Network Limited. He was awarded an honorary doctorate degree in the 50th convocation ceremony of the University of Lagos.
In September 2018, Ovia announced the publication of his book Africa, Rise and Shine published with ForbesBooks.
Jim Ovia Leadership roles
He is a member of the Governing Council of Lagos State University, Lagos and a member of the Board of Trustees, Redeemer’s University For Nations, Lagos. He was a member of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (1999–2007) and served on the board of American International School, Lagos (2001–2003).
Ovia headed numerous NGOs at various times including serving as the first President of the Nigeria Internet Group (2001–2003). He is the founder and Chairman of Mankind United to Support Total Education (MUSTE), a philanthropic organisation focused on providing scholarships for the less privileged.
He is the founder of the Youth Empowerment / ICT Foundation, which focuses on improving the socioeconomic welfare of Nigerian youths by inspiring and motivating them to embrace Information and communication technology.
Jim Ovia Awards
In October 2022, a Nigerian national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) was conferred on him by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Jim Ovia Net worth
Jim Ovia has an estimated net worth of $30 millions. Jim James Ovia is a well-known Nigerian businessman.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
Who is Jim Ovia?
Jim James Ovia is a well-known Nigerian businessman, he is the founder of Zenith Bank.
When was Jim Ovia born?
He was born on November 4, 1951.
Where was Jim Ovia born?
He was born in Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria.
What is Jim Ovia Nationality?
Jim Ovia holds a Nigerian nationality.
What is Jim Ovia net worth?
Jim Ovia has an estimated net worth of $30 millions.
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