Zenith Bank Plc has been named the “Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria” in the International Banker 2024 Banking Awards, retaining the title for the second consecutive year.
The bank’s Group Managing Director, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, said the recognition reaffirmed Zenith Bank’s position as a trailblazer in sustainable banking practices, setting a benchmark for excellence within the banking industry in Nigeria and beyond.
She said the bank has been a leader in monitoring and reporting sustainability impact.
Dr. Umeoji noted that since becoming the first bank in Africa to publish a stand-alone sustainability report in accordance with the GRI Standards: Core Option in 2016, Zenith Bank has consistently published assured stand-alone sustainability reports.
She pointed out that the bank is one of the few institutions in Nigeria that tracks its carbon emissions, using a certified tool built on the internationally recognised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol.
According to her, the bank is deeply committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) values, subscribing to the triple bottom-line principle, which encompasses people, planet and profit.
As a leading financial institution that services various sectors of the economy, the bank considers Environmental and Social (E&S) risk management critical to its sustainability strategy.
She said: “We are deeply honoured to be recognised as the Most Sustainable Bank in Nigeria for the second time in a row. This prestigious award underscores our steadfast commitment to sustainability and reinforces our belief that responsible banking is essential for long-term success and societal impact.”
She dedicated the award to Dr. Jim Ovia, Zenith Bank Plc Founder and Chairman.
