Zenith Bank Plc has appointed Engr. Mustafa Bello as its new Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective immediately. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved the appointment, and shareholders ratified it at the Annual General Meeting on May 5, 2026.
Engr. Bello’s appointment marks a strategic move to ensure continuity, stability, and sustained effectiveness of the Board, reinforcing Zenith Bank’s high standards of corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and strategic oversight. He joined the Board on December 29, 2017, and has served on several committees, including the Board Audit and Compliance Committee, Board Governance, Nomination and Remuneration Committee, and as Chairman of the Board Risk Management Committee. His experience and expertise will drive the bank’s continued success and growth
He has extensive leadership experience at Board and executive levels, a strong understanding of corporate governance principles and regulatory expectations, and a proven track record in strategic oversight and organisational growth. He has consistently demonstrated integrity, independence and sound judgement, qualities that distinguished him as the natural choice to lead the Board into its next chapter.
READ ALSO: FCMB opens applications for zero-interest loans to women entrepreneurs
Engr. Mustafa Bello, a distinguished engineer, statesman, and corporate leader has over four decades of experience in Nigeria’s public and private sectors. He served as Nigeria’s Minister of Commerce from 1999 to 2002 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, leading the development of Nigeria’s WTO-consistent Trade Policy. He also oversaw the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) online project, modernizing business registration in Nigeria.As Executive Secretary and CEO of the Nigerian Investments Promotion Commission (NIPC) from 2003 to 2014, Engr. Bello attracted foreign direct investment, built partnerships, and represented the Federal Government internationally. His expertise drives Zenith Bank’s growth and success.
He graduated from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, in 1978 with a B.Engr. in Civil Engineering (Second Class Upper Division), winning the Shell Prize for the best project and thesis in the Faculty of Engineering. He began his career with the Nigerian Army’s Directorate of Quartering and Engineering Service from 1978 to 1979, then joined the Niger State Housing Corporation as a Senior Civil Engineer from 1980 to 1983.
He currently chairs Invest-in-Northern Nigeria Limited, driving economic transformation in Northern Nigeria. He previously served on boards of Eskom Holdings Limited (2004-2008) and FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc. He’s a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and Registered Member of COREN, and Fellow of ANSEN.
Discover more from The Industry
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
