Zenith Bank to Open Manchester Branch to Deepen UK–Africa Trade and Investment Links
By Rashidat Olushola Okunlade
Leading financial institution, Zenith Bank Plc, has announced plans to officially open a new branch in Manchester, marking a significant milestone in its international expansion strategy and reinforcing efforts to strengthen financial linkages between Africa and global markets.
The official opening ceremony, scheduled for Tuesday, March 17, 2026, is expected to attract government officials from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, alongside regulators, investors, customers and business leaders. The event underscores growing economic ties and emerging investment opportunities between both markets.
The Manchester branch will complement the bank’s existing operations in the United Kingdom and serve as a strategic hub for supporting businesses involved in international trade and cross-border investments. Through the new office, Zenith Bank will offer corporate banking, trade finance, treasury and other financial services to clients operating across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa.
Speaking ahead of the launch, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank, Adaora Umeoji, described the move as a critical step in positioning the bank as a leading African financial institution connecting businesses and markets across continents.
According to her, Manchester’s status as one of the United Kingdom’s most dynamic commercial centres makes it an ideal location for deepening financial connections between UK-based enterprises and opportunities in Africa’s rapidly expanding markets.
Founded in 1990 by its Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s most prominent banking institutions, supported by a strong capital base and a track record of consistent profitability. The bank’s performance has earned it recognition from both local and international rating agencies and industry bodies.
Headquartered in Lagos, Zenith Bank operates over 500 branches and business offices across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The bank also maintains subsidiaries in several African markets, including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire, as well as international presence in major financial centres such as London, Paris, Dubai and Beijing.
Widely recognised as one of the United Kingdom’s most vibrant economic hubs, Manchester hosts a diverse mix of businesses across manufacturing, engineering, logistics, technology and consumer goods sectors. Zenith Bank noted that the city’s strong commercial ecosystem and global outlook align with its expertise in corporate banking, structured finance and trade finance.
The Manchester branch is expected to work closely with the bank’s London operations and broader international network to support clients seeking expansion across markets and new trade opportunities in both the United Kingdom and Africa.
With the planned opening, Zenith Bank continues to advance its vision of building a truly global African banking institution that facilitates trade, drives investment flows and strengthens economic bridges between Africa and the rest of the world.
