Business
GODFATHER OF BANKING, JIM OVIA, ADMITTED TO THE FREEDOM OF THE CITY OF LONDON
GODFATHER OF BANKING, JIM OVIA, ADMITTED TO THE FREEDOM OF THE CITY OF LONDON
The Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR, has been admitted to the prestigious Freedom of the City of London in a distinguished ceremony which held at the Mansion House, City of London on Monday, April 7, 2025. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Mr. Ovia’s exceptional contributions to the global financial landscape, unwavering commitment to fostering economic development, and dedication to philanthropic endeavours that have positively impacted countless lives.
The Freedom of the City of London, a time-honoured tradition dating back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest surviving ceremonies in the United Kingdom. Historically, it granted freemen certain rights and privileges within the city. Today, it stands as a symbolic recognition of individuals who have made outstanding contributions to London or the wider society. This honour places Mr. Ovia among a distinguished group of recipients, which includes notable figures from various fields such as Nelson Mandela, Bill Gates, Sir Winston Churchill, Desmond Tutu, Harry Kane, Morgan Freeman and Ian Wright.
Commenting on his new status as a Freeman of the City of London, the distinguished honoree, Jim Ovia, CFR said “It is indeed a great honour to be admitted to the prestigious Freedom of the City of London. This is not just a recognition of my personal achievements, but also a testament to the tireless efforts of the entire Zenith team who have worked diligently to establish our institution as a leading force in global finance. I am proud to be part of a legacy that celebrates innovation, excellence and the spirit of entrepreneurship. I dedicate this to the people of Nigeria and Africa who continue to inspire me with their resilience and determination. I look forward to continuing to play a role in shaping the economic landscape of our great continent and beyond.”
Joining the nation in congratulating Mr. Ovia, President Bola Tinubu, through a press statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended Mr. Ovia for being a distinguished ambassador of the nation’s private sector. He described the honour as a fitting recognition of his exceptional contributions to business, innovation, and technology, as well as for his role in shaping Nigeria’s financial landscape and strengthening economic ties between Africa and the rest of the world. According to him, “This honour is a testament to your unwavering commitment to excellence, your pioneering role in the growth of the financial services sector in Nigeria, and your visionary leadership that continues to inspire generations. As an accomplished entrepreneur and advocate of innovation-driven development, your recognition in the City of London affirms the global relevance of Nigerian excellence and enterprise”.
Dignitaries at the ceremony include Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu; Governor of Delta State, Rt.Hon. (Elder) Sherrif Oborevwori; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON; Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, MFR; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Oba of Oniru, Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal; Group Managing Director, TGI Group of Companies, Rahul Savara; Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR, and His Eminence John Cardinal Onaiyekan, who joined Zenith Bank Executives in celebrating this significant milestone.
This well-deserved recognition rides on the back of many other prestigious awards that Mr. Ovia has received for his outstanding contributions to banking, education and philanthropy including conferment of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) & National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award in 2022 by the Federal Government of Nigeria. He was also named the Banker of the Year in 2007 and Titan of the year in 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper, and received the African Business Leader Award from the Africa-America Institute. He received honorary degrees from the University of Lagos as well as from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and was recognized by Forbes Africa as one of the most influential figures in banking.
Business
Valentine Season: Adron Homes Encourages Nigerians to Build Lasting Love Through Real Estate
Valentine Season: Adron Homes Encourages Nigerians to Build Lasting Love Through Real Estate
Adron Homes and Properties has continued its ongoing “Love for Love Promo” as part of its Valentine season initiatives, encouraging couples, families, and investors to move beyond traditional gifts by embracing shared property ownership as a lasting expression of commitment and financial stability.
The company stated that the promo, which has been running throughout the Valentine period, was designed to inspire Nigerians to build long-term value and legacy through real estate investments. It noted that the initiative offers attractive discounts, flexible payment options, and a variety of exclusive gift items across its estates and housing projects nationwide.
Under the promo structure, clients who pay ₦100,000 receive cake, chocolates, and a bottle of wine, while those who pay ₦200,000 receive a Love Hamper. Subscribers who commit ₦500,000 receive a Love Hamper with cake, and those who pay ₦1,000,000 enjoy a choice of a Samsung phone or a Love Hamper with cake.
The incentives increase with higher commitments. Clients who pay ₦5,000,000 receive either an iPad or a romantic couple’s getaway at a top Nigerian hotel, while payments of ₦10,000,000 come with options including a Samsung Z Fold 7, a three-night stay at a premium resort, or a full solar power installation.
High-value investors are also rewarded, as clients who pay ₦30,000,000 on land receive a three-night couple’s trip to Doha or South Africa. At the same time, purchasers of houses valued at ₦50,000,000 are presented with a double-door refrigerator, further reflecting the company’s focus on combining lifestyle experiences with strategic investments.
The company added that the promo covers estates located in Lagos, Shimawa, Sagamu, Atan–Ota, Papalanto, Abeokuta, Ibadan, Osun, Ekiti, Abuja, Nasarawa, and Niger states. It reiterated its commitment to secure land titles, affordable pricing, and prime locations, urging Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to take advantage of the ongoing Valentine campaign to build a future rooted in love, security, and prosperity.
Business
14 Reasons Nigerians Should Own Property with the Trusted Real Estate Brand
14 Reasons Nigerians Should Own Property with the Trusted Real Estate Brand
As part of activities marking its 14 years of transforming Nigeria’s real estate landscape, Adron Homes and Properties has unveiled 14 compelling reasons why individuals and families should consider owning property with the company reinforcing its commitment to accessible, stylish, and sustainable homeownership.
In a statement released by the company, Adron Homes described property ownership not just as an investment but as a strategic lifestyle decision rooted in long-term security, wealth creation, and community development. The company noted that over the past 14 years, it has remained consistent in providing affordable housing solutions while delivering well-planned estates that cater to diverse income levels.
According to the statement, Adron Homes’ success is anchored in its strong value proposition, which ranges from affordable pricing and flexible payment structures to prime estate locations nationwide. The company emphasized that its gated communities are designed with security, modern architectural standards, and structured infrastructure that ensure comfort and functionality for residents.
Adron Homes further highlighted its transparent documentation process and verified property titles, which have continued to boost investor confidence and encourage long-term property ownership among Nigerians at home and in the diaspora. The company added that its developments are intentionally designed to promote thriving communities, environmental sustainability, and long-term urban planning.
With a proven track record of helping thousands of customers achieve their property dreams, Adron Homes reaffirmed its commitment to delivering high-value investments that appreciate over time while maintaining strong customer service support from initial inquiry to allocation and beyond.
The organisation also noted its culture of appreciation for clients, partners, and staff through consistent reward programmes and promotional incentives. This strategy has strengthened loyalty and deepened engagement across its growing customer base.
Reflecting on its 14-year journey, Adron Homes reiterated that its mission goes beyond selling land and houses; it focuses on building vibrant communities where families thrive, investments grow, and futures are secured. The company encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of its flexible ownership opportunities, stressing that the best time to invest in property is now.
As it continues to expand its footprint across Nigeria, Adron Homes remains committed to innovation, excellence, and redefining the real estate experience through sustainable developments that stand the test of time.
Business
Ogun Unveils Plan for ₦1bn AI-Driven Digital Classroom at Remo Secondary School
Ogun Unveils Plan for ₦1bn AI-Driven Digital Classroom at Remo Secondary School
The Ogun State Government has announced plans to deliver a 900-capacity, Artificial Intelligence-enabled digital learning complex at Remo Secondary School, Sagamu, in a move aimed at strengthening technology-based education across the state.
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed activities marking the institution’s 80th anniversary, noting that the proposed facility represents a deliberate investment in modern learning infrastructure designed to prepare students for a rapidly evolving, knowledge-driven global economy.
He explained that the digital classroom project complements ongoing smart-education initiatives within the school, which already features a functional resource centre and a state-of-the-art robotics laboratory established to nurture innovation, problem-solving skills, and digital competence among learners.
Reaffirming his commitment to the school’s growth, the governor announced a financial pledge of ₦100m, stating that ₦50m representing half of the amount would be released immediately to kick-start development efforts. He also assured stakeholders that at least one of the outlined projects would be fully executed before the end of his administration.
Abiodun further disclosed that the state government had upgraded the school’s science laboratories, equipping them with modern facilities and teaching tools to ensure safer and more effective practical learning experiences for students.
He added that renovation works had also been completed on both the male and female hostels to improve accommodation standards, enhance security, and promote the overall well-being of boarding students.
Describing Remo Secondary School as a symbol of enduring heritage, the governor said the anniversary celebration went beyond mere commemoration of years of existence, emphasising the institution’s long-standing role in shaping generations of leaders and professionals.
He praised members of the old students’ association for their unwavering support and contributions to the school’s development, stressing that their collective efforts demonstrate a shared commitment to sustaining its legacy of excellence.
According to him, the projects and improvements carried out at the school reflect a strong belief in education as a foundation for future growth, as well as the power of collaboration between government, alumni, and the wider community.
Abiodun also revealed that the institution had been recognised as one of Ogun State’s model schools, urging students to remain focused on their academic pursuits, uphold strong moral values, and continue the tradition of excellence for which the school is known.
-
celebrity radar - gossips6 months agoWhy Babangida’s Hilltop Home Became Nigeria’s Political “Mecca”
-
society6 months agoPower is a Loan, Not a Possession: The Sacred Duty of Planting People
-
news6 months agoTHE APPOINTMENT OF WASIU AYINDE BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AS AN AMBASSADOR SOUNDS EMBARRASSING
-
Business6 months agoBatsumi Travel CEO Lisa Sebogodi Wins Prestigious Africa Travel 100 Women Award

