Jim Ovia Biography: Net Worth, House, Wife, Age, Children, Scholarship, Email Address, State Of Origin

Biography

Jim Ovia (born November 4, 1961), known by his full name Jim James Ovia, is a notable Nigerian entrepreneur and investor from Delta State. His significant contributions have earned him a distinguished reputation in Nigerian business and banking. 

He has made an indelible mark in the Nigerian financial industry by founding Zenith Bank, one of the largest commercial banks in the country, and is also the chairperson and the largest individual shareholder of the bank, owning slightly more than 9% of the total stake.

But his business acumen and prowess continue. Jim Ovia‘s business interests span multiple sectors, and he is known to have an impressive real estate portfolio across Nigeria. He is also the owner of Visafone, a mobile telecom operator with a vast subscriber base of 3 million people. 

Clearly, Jim Ovia‘s influence in Nigeria extends well beyond just the banking sector, and his entrepreneurial spirit and business success have undoubtedly contributed to his esteemed reputation in the country and beyond.

Jim Ovia
Jim Ovia: History ‧ Bio ‧ Photo
Wiki Facts & About Data
Full Name:	Jim James Ovia
Stage Name:	Jim Ovia
Born:	4 November 1951 (age 72 years old)
Place of Birth:	Agbor, Delta, Nigeria
State Of Origin:	Delta State
Nationality:	Nigerian
Height:	1.57 m
Parents:	Obi Olihe of Agbor-Obi
Siblings:	N/A
Spouse:	Kay Ovia
Girlfriend • Partner:	N/A
Children:	Isioma Ovia, Zephia Ovia, Tito Ovia, Tami Ovia, Jesse Ovia
Occupation:	Businessman • Investor
Net Worth:	$550 million

Early Life & Education

Jim Ovia, a name that commands respect in the Nigerian business scene, was born in Agbor, a region that was then part of British Nigeria but now Delta State, on November 4, 1961. He comes from a family with deep roots in Delta State, where his father is a revered traditional chief, holding the esteemed title of Obi Olihe of Agbor-Obi. He inherited his father’s respected position and is known to be one of the most influential figures in Delta State.

His educational background is nothing short of impressive. Jim Ovia obtained his B.Sc. degree in Business Administration from Southern University and A&M College, Louisiana, and later earned his Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Louisiana, Monroe. However, his academic feats do not end there; he also attended the prestigious Harvard Business School, further cementing his expertise in business management.

Jim Ovia‘s business acumen is second to none, as demonstrated by his achievements in the banking industry. He is the founder of Zenith Bank, one of Nigeria’s largest and most successful commercial banks, where he currently serves as chairman and the largest individual shareholder, with a stake of over 9%. He also has significant investments in prime real estate across Nigeria and owns Visafone, a mobile telecom operator with a subscriber base of over 3 million people.

Personal Life

Jim Ovia is happily married to his beloved wife, Kay Ovia, who he holds in high esteem. Their unwavering love and affection for each other are evident in the way they carry themselves when they step out together.

Jim Ovia and Kay Ovia have been blessed with five children, namely Isioma Ovia, Zephia Ovia, Tito Ovia, Tami Ovia, and Jesse Ovia, who they love dearly. 

One of their daughters, Tito Ovia, recently tied the knot in an extravagant wedding held in Morocco’s beautiful North African country, which was attended by a host of dignitaries and celebrities.

Career

Jim Ovia, the visionary mastermind behind the remarkable success of Zenith Bank Plc, has left an indelible mark in the Nigerian banking and business world. He transformed the tier-1 Nigerian bank into one of the most profitable financial institutions in the country before taking on the mantle of Chairman in 2010.

Jim Ovia‘s pioneering leadership for over two decades propelled Zenith Bank to a prominent and successful position among African banking establishments. He was not just limited to banking, though. The mark of his innovative expertise can be seen across ventures such as Visafone Communications Limited, National Software Development Initiative (NSDI), National Information Technology Advisory Council (NITAC), Honorary International Investor Council, Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), and Cyberspace Network Limited.

The University of Lagos recognized his outstanding achievements by bestowing him an honorary doctorate. In 2018, Jim Ovia authored the book Africa, Rise, and Shine, published with ForbesBooks. His contribution to the Nigerian business world was further recognized in October 2022 when President Muhammadu Buhari conferred him with the prestigious national honor of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).

Jim Ovia‘s legacy extends far beyond his professional achievements. He is a family man devoted to his wife, Kay Ovia, with whom he shares five wonderful children named Isioma, Zephia, Tito, Tami, and Jesse.

Net Worth

According to Forbes, Jim Ovia has an estimated net worth of $550 million. He is one of Nigeria and Africa’s most successful businessmen and entrepreneurs.

Social Media

• Instagram handle: @Jimoviafoundation
• Twitter handle: @Jimoviafoundatn