Zenith Bank pens N625.6bn profit in H1 2025

By InstinctBusiness Sep 19, 20250

Zenith Bank Plc has announced a robust financial performance for the first half of 2025, recording a profit before tax of N625.629 billion ( over $418 million).

The bank’s Board approved an interim dividend of N1.25 per share, a 25% increase from N1.00 in the first half of 2024, reinforcing its position as a leading dividend-paying institution in Nigeria.

The strong results were driven by a 20% year-on-year surge in gross earnings, which rose from N2.1 trillion to N2.5 trillion. Interest income was a key contributor, growing 60% from N1.1 trillion to N1.8 trillion, fueled by strategic repricing of risk assets and effective treasury management.

Net interest income also saw an impressive 90% increase, climbing from N715 billion to N1.4 trillion, while non-interest income added N613 billion to the bank’s performance.

Group Managing Director/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, attributed the results to the bank’s innovative workforce and resilience in a dynamic economic environment.

“Despite higher provisioning requirements due to the industry-wide exit from the CBN forbearance regime, we’ve significantly improved our asset quality. Our robust balance sheet and adequate capital buffers position us to capitalize on opportunities across our key markets,” she said at the release of the H1 2025 results.

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Zenith Bank’s total assets grew to N31 trillion by June 2025, up from N30 trillion in December 2024, supported by a 7% increase in customer deposits, from N22 trillion to N23 trillion. The loan book, however, contracted slightly to N10.2 trillion from N11 trillion, reflecting the bank’s cautious risk management approach. Profit after tax reached N532 billion, with earnings per share at N12.95 for the period.

Looking ahead, Umeoji expressed optimism about the bank’s growth trajectory. “We expect to accelerate our performance in the second half of 2025, delivering exceptional returns and a potentially substantial year-end dividend,” she said. “Our focus on innovation, digital transformation, and client-centric solutions will sustain this momentum, ensuring continued value creation for shareholders and stakeholders.”