Zenith Bank illuminated the heart of Victoria Island, Lagos, ushering in the Christmas and Yuletide seasons with the 17th edition of its spectacular Light-Up Ceremony. Ajose Adeogun Street and Roundabout were transformed into a resplendent spectacle, marking a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by the bank.
The ceremony, which took place on Saturday, November 25, 2023, was officiated by the Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu. The event not only signified the bank’s commitment to spreading holiday cheer but also showcased its dedication to community engagement.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Onyeagwu emphasised the importance of embracing the Christmas spirit, emphasising values such as peace, love, forgiveness and respect for humanity. He extended heartfelt prayers for peace in homes, businesses and the entire nation, underscoring Zenith Bank’s commitment to fostering connections within the community.
“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. We pray that our country will experience peace. We pray that our joy will be full in this season of joy. So, in the spirit of the Yuletide season, Zenith Bank is also demonstrating that we want to use this to continue communicating and connecting with the community,” he said.
The festive display along Ajose Adeogun Street, home to Zenith Bank’s Corporate Headquarters, and the Roundabout has become an iconic tourist attraction. People from all walks of life visit with their families and friends to capture the mesmerizing spectacle through photographs and videos, especially during the enchanting nighttime ambiance of the holiday season.
Dr. Onyeagwu expressed gratitude to Quantum Markets, the creative force behind the annual decorations. He commended their outstanding work, highlighting the uniqueness and splendour of the Christmas light display in Lagos, Nigeria. According to him, the decorations surpass those in many other cities worldwide, making Lagos a standout destination during the festive season.
Zenith Bank’s CSR initiatives align with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting a holistic approach to social responsibility. The bank’s commitment extends beyond financial performance to encompass social investments, inclusive economic growth, and environmental improvements. In 2022, Zenith Bank invested NGN 1.67 billion in CSR, representing 0.75% of its Profit After Tax (PAT).
The bank’s CSR focus spans health, education, women and youth empowerment, sports development, and public infrastructure enhancement. Recognizing the symbiotic relationship between business and community strength, Zenith Bank continues to contribute to the long-term social and economic well-being of its host communities.
Zenith Bank’s dedication to creating opportunities is evident in its support for ultramodern ICT centers in educational institutions across Nigeria. The bank also champions developmental projects, healthcare initiatives, and sports development through sponsorships such as the Zenith Women Basketball League, Zenith Bank Delta State Principals’ Cup, and Zenith Bank Delta State Headmasters’ Cup.
The accolades received by Zenith Bank, including the “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, underscore the bank’s impactful contributions to its host communities and society at large.
As Zenith Bank continues to illuminate the holiday season, its commitment to social responsibility remains a beacon of hope and positive change in Nigeria. The bank’s Light-Up Ceremony not only spreads festive joy but also symbolizes a broader commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future for all.