Zenith Bank Plc has kicked off 2025 with a bang, announcing its unaudited results for the first quarter ending March 31, 2025. The bank reported Gross Earnings of N950 billion, a strong 22% increase from the N781 billion it earned in Q1 2024. This exciting growth was revealed in a statement submitted to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), showing that Zenith is making serious strides in the banking world.
The big jump in earnings didn’t happen by magic, it was powered by a massive 72% rise in interest and similar income, which climbed to N838 billion from N489 billion a year ago. The bank credits this boost to the high-interest rate environment that’s been sticking around. In simple terms, Zenith is making more money from the interest it charges, and that’s a big win for its bottom line.
On the profit front, Zenith Bank kept the good news coming. Its Profit Before Tax (PBT) grew by 10% to N351 billion, up from N320 billion in Q1 2024, while Profit After Tax (PAT) jumped 21% to N312 billion. The bank also trimmed its cost of funds to 3.9% from 4% and lowered its cost of risk to 1.8% from 2.8%. These cuts show Zenith is getting better at managing its money, keeping its assets strong, and avoiding risks—all of which help it stay profitable.
Looking ahead, Zenith Bank isn’t slowing down. It’s focusing on keeping costs low, making customers happier, and pushing digital tools to the next level. The bank’s Net Interest Margin (NIM) rose to 10.3% from 8.3%, though Return on Average Equity (ROAE) and Return on Average Assets (ROAA) dipped to 29.4% and 4.0% due to a recent recapitalization. Loans grew slightly by 1% to N11.08 trillion, deposits rose 3% to N22.68 trillion, and total assets swelled 8% to N32.42 trillion. With plans to expand and boost shareholder value, Zenith Bank is on course to keep shining.