By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Nigerian lender, Zenith Bank Plc, is expanding its footprint in the United Kingdom, with the opening of a new branch in Manchester.
The launching of this branch is on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, with government officials from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, regulators, investors, customers, and business leaders from both countries expected to grace the occasion.
A statement from the bank said the new Manchester branch would complement Zenith Bank’s existing operations in the UK and serve as a strategic hub for supporting businesses engaged in international trade and investment.
Through the branch, the bank will provide corporate banking, trade finance, treasury and related financial services to clients operating across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa.
Manchester, widely regarded as one of the United Kingdom’s most vibrant economic centres, hosts a diverse base of businesses across sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, logistics, technology and consumer goods.
The city’s strong commercial ecosystem and international outlook align closely with Zenith Bank’s expertise in corporate banking, structured finance and trade finance.
The Manchester branch will work closely with the company’s London operations and its broader international network to support clients seeking to expand across markets and unlock new opportunities in both the United Kingdom and Africa.
“The opening of our Manchester branch represents another important step in Zenith Bank’s growth as a leading African financial institution connecting businesses and markets across continents.
“Manchester is one of the United Kingdom’s most dynamic commercial centres, and our presence here will further strengthen financial connections between businesses in the UK and opportunities across Africa’s rapidly expanding markets,” the chief executive of Zenith Bank, Ms Adaora Umeoji, said.
Founded in 1990 by Mr Jim Ovia, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s most respected banking institutions, boasting a robust capital base and a remarkable history of year-on-year profitability.
Built on a strong foundation of people, technology and service, the lender has consistently delivered innovative financial solutions while maintaining a disciplined approach to growth and risk management.
Its impressive performance has consistently earned it excellent ratings, recognition and endorsement from local and international agencies and institutions.
Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Zenith Bank operates over 500 branches and business offices across the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The bank currently operates subsidiaries in several African countries, including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Cote d’Ivoire, while maintaining a presence in major international financial centres, including the United Kingdom, France, the UAE and China.
