Zenith Bank Plc Disowns ‘Wealth Bridge’ Investment Scheme Linked to Jim Ovia

Zenith Bank Plc has distanced itself from a viral video and accompanying images circulating on social media that falsely associate its Group Chairman, Jim Ovia, with an investment scheme branded as “Wealth Bridge.”

In a statement posted on its official X account on Tuesday, the bank clarified that the promotional material — shared via a Facebook handle named “Greece Island” — invites members of the public to invest ₦380,000 with a promise of weekly returns of up to ₦2 million.

The clip further alleges that the scheme is endorsed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Bank Declares Claim False

Describing the claims as fraudulent, Zenith Bank stated:

“This claim is entirely false and has no connection whatsoever to the Group Chairman, the bank, or any of its affiliate companies.

The video redirects unsuspecting members of the public to an alleged Arise News webpage with the details of this scheme and an embedded registration portal for signups.

The general public is hereby advised to disregard these fraudulent communications.”

The bank emphasized that neither Jim Ovia nor Zenith Bank has any affiliation with the so-called “Wealth Bridge” platform.

Public Warning Issued

Zenith Bank warned that individuals who engage with the “Greece Island” handle, “Wealth Bridge,” or any related platforms mentioned in the circulating materials do so at their own risk.

It urged Nigerians to verify all investment opportunities through official, credible, and regulated channels before committing funds.

Similar Scam Pattern Emerges

The development follows a recent warning issued by Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, who raised alarm over a manipulated video falsely portraying her as endorsing a similar investment scheme.

The pattern points to an increasing use of doctored videos and impersonation tactics targeting high-profile public figures to lend credibility to fraudulent ventures.

Strong Financial Position

Meanwhile, Zenith Bank continues to post robust financial results. In its unaudited nine-month financial report ending September 2025, the bank recorded:

• Pre-tax profit of ₦917.4 billion

• Q3 2025 pre-tax profit of ₦291.78 billion (up from ₦275.8 billion in Q3 2024)

• Gross earnings of ₦3.37 trillion for the first nine months of 2025 (compared to ₦2.89 trillion in the same period of 2024)

The bank reiterated its commitment to safeguarding customers and the public against fraudulent schemes leveraging its brand identity.

Members of the public are advised to remain cautious and report suspicious financial solicitations to appropriate authorities.