Since Zenith Bank PLC announced the change in leadership, with Dame Adaora-Umeoji Nwokoye OON becoming the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer from June 1, 2024, there has been a mix of congratulations and derogatory comments from people obviously threatened by the success of a woman and numerous others.

I've come across articles where some bloggers falsely label her as coming from a poor background and suddenly rising in status, which is laughable. There have been other unfortunate stories circulating as well.

Dame Adaora Umeoji-Nwokoye's only offense seems to be her preference for a private life and not seeking publicity. Instead, she lets her achievements speak for themselves.

It's no surprise to those of us who were privileged to come close to the Umeoji dynasty that Dame Adaora Umeoji-Nwokoye, OON, popularly known as "Ada Zenith," has been appointed as the next GMD/CEO of Zenith Bank PLC. Her title of "Agụ bata ọhịa mgbada awalu," bestowed upon her by Aguata women, is not just a mere title but a testament to her accomplishments.

There is likely no one as renowned as Dame Adaora within Zenith Bank PLC today. She has been the face of the bank and the driving force behind their numerous success stories over the past decade.

Coming from a politically and academically prominent family in Aguata, her background has surely influenced her. Her father, the late Sir Andy Umeoji, was a former local government chairman and lawmaker in the old Anambra State, while her mother, who passed away two years ago, was a teacher and influential businesswoman. Therefore, those who label her as "a poor girl" are either misinformed or intentionally trying to cause mischief.

Dame Adaora is currently married to a US-based medical doctor from Achalla in Awka North LGA of Anambra State, Chief Dr. Emmanuel Nwokoye with whom she has grown children.

Her appointment as the next GMD/CEO of Zenith Bank PLC was not surprising, but rather a testament to her hard work and dedication throughout the years, making her the most influential person in the Nigerian banking sector at present. She chose a quiet and private life, unlike other popular bankers. Those who work with Zenith Bank can confirm that Dame Adaora Umeoji Nwokoye is more influential than those bankers whose names are constantly mentioned.

Agubata did not become a Bank CEO/GMD overnight; it is a position she earned through her perseverance and dedication over the years.

Despite the inevitable presence of naysayers in a society where qualities such as integrity, honesty, and hard work are regarded as rare, there are always a few individuals whose lives we can examine to understand their remarkable journey. One such person is Dame (Mrs.) Adora Umeoji Nwokoye, OON - a quiet agent of change, a generous and silent philanthropist, and, above all, deeply committed to her family. She exemplifies the virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman.

Take A Bow Agubata Ọhịa!

ULOKA, Chibuike

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I like her traditional chieftancy title Agu bata ohia mgbada awalu which when translated in English means "When the lion enters the forest the antelop takes flight.

Congratulations Ada Zenith!