# Jim Ovia

Founded Zenith Bank in Lagos in 1990 with a start-up capital of ₦20 million; by 2023, the bank reported total assets exceeding ₦20 trillion and held accounts for more than 30 million customers, per Zenith Bank's 2023 annual report. Led Zenith Bank's listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 2004 and on the London Stock Exchange in 2013, making it one of the few Nigerian financial institutions with a dual primary listing. Founded Quantum Luxury Properties, the developer behind the Civic Centre in Lagos, a conference and events facility on Victoria Island. Published 'Africa Rising' (2012), an account of his approach to institution-building in emerging markets.

- Region: 234
- Affiliation: Zenith Bank & Quantum Luxury Properties
- Industry: Financial Services, Commercial Real Estate, Hospitality
- URL: https://xecon.dev/234/profiles/people/jim-ovia
- Updated: 2026-05-27

## Sources

1. [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Ovia)
2. [Jimovia](https://jimovia.com/about-jim/)
3. [Africa](https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/meet-jim-ovia-the-former-barclays-clerk-who-turned-dollar5-million-into-a-dollar33/hh89mk9)
4. [Billionaires](https://www.billionaires.africa/2023/09/04/7-companies-owned-by-nigerias-richest-banker-jim-ovia/)
5. [Legit](https://www.legit.ng/business-economy/industry/1552322-nigerias-wealthiest-banker-jim-ovia-stake-7-companies/)