In a spectacular event, Zenith Bank marked the onset of the Christmas and Yuletide seasons by illuminating Ajose Adeogun Street and Roundabout in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Saturday, November 25, 2023. The Light-Up ceremony, the 17th of its kind, was led by Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, the Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, reflecting the bank’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Zenith Bank’s Christmas decoration initiative is a testament to its dedication to beautifying and transforming Ajose Adeogun Street, home to the bank’s Corporate Headquarters, and Roundabout into a breathtaking spectacle. Over the years, this display has become an iconic tourist attraction, drawing individuals from various backgrounds who visit with their families and friends to capture the beauty through photos and videos, especially during the evening, immersing themselves in the festive ambiance.
During the ceremony, Dr. Onyeagwu expressed his joy at inaugurating the 2023 Yuletide season by lighting up Ajose Adeogun Street and Roundabout. He emphasized the significance of embracing the message and spirit of Christmas, emphasizing values such as peace, love, forgiveness, and respect for humanity. Dr. Onyeagwu also offered prayers for peace in homes, businesses, and the country as a whole.
In his words, “Today, as we turn on the Christmas light with the wife of our Founder and Chairman, Mrs. Kay Ovia, in our midst, we hope with this, we activate the spirit of Christmas in the minds of everyone. We pray that the ambience of the light brings warmth, love, joy, fulfillment, and hope to every one of us.”
He acknowledged the efforts of Quantum Markets, the organization responsible for the annual decorations, praising their consistently creative and beautiful work. Dr. Onyeagwu highlighted the uniqueness of the event, declaring that Lagos, Nigeria’s display surpasses those in other cities around the world.
Zenith Bank’s sustainability and CSR initiatives underscore its belief that a company’s performance extends beyond financial metrics. The bank maintains that social investments, contributions to inclusive economic growth, development, and environmental improvements form a balanced scorecard for corporate success.
Aligned with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Zenith Bank’s CSR initiatives focus on health, education, women and youth empowerment, sports development, and public infrastructure enhancement. In 2022, the bank invested NGN 1.67 billion in CSR, equivalent to 0.75% of its Profit After Tax (PAT).
The bank’s commitment to the economic, cultural, and social development of host communities is evident in its community-based initiatives and philanthropy. Zenith Bank contributes to the establishment of state-of-the-art ICT centers in various educational institutions nationwide, demonstrating its commitment to creating opportunities and expanding access.
Moreover, the bank supports developmental projects, healthcare causes, and sports development in Nigeria. It sponsors events such as the Zenith Women Basketball League, Zenith Bank Delta State Principals’ Cup, and Zenith Bank Delta State Headmasters’ Cup, among others.
In recognition of its substantial contributions to host communities and society, Zenith Bank was honored with the title of “Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria” in the International Banker 2023 Banking Awards and “Most Responsible Organization in Africa” at the Sustainability, Enterprise, and Responsibility (SERAS) Awards 2021. This acknowledgment affirms the bank’s commitment to making enduring social and economic impacts in the communities it serves.
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