Zenith Bank Stock Jumps to Record High on London Listing Plans

Story: written by Joseph March 18,2026
Shares of Zenith Bank Plc surged sharply after the lender revealed plans to secure a listing on the London Stock Exchange by 2027, a move aimed at expanding capital access and boosting international operations.

The stock climbed nearly 8 percent to close at a record N111, marking its strongest daily gain in over a month. The rally also pushed Zenith Bank ahead of Guaranty Trust Holding Company in market value, with a capitalisation of N4.58 trillion compared to GTCO’s N4.32 trillion.

The development makes Zenith the second Nigerian banking stock to cross the N100 per share mark, alongside GTCO, which also maintained strong performance.

In a statement, the bank said the proposed London listing is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its global footprint and support cross-border financial activities. Zenith already has a presence on the UK market through its Global Depository Receipts, listed since 2013.

The planned move would position the bank as the second Nigerian lender to achieve a full listing in London, following GTCO’s earlier capital raise on the exchange.

Coinciding with the announcement, Zenith Bank also unveiled a new branch in Manchester, expanding its operations beyond London. The facility is expected to support corporate banking, trade finance, and treasury services, particularly for businesses operating between Africa and Europe.

Group Managing Director and CEO Adaora Umeoji described the expansion as a strategic step toward deepening the bank’s global reach. She noted that the UK remains a critical financial hub for strengthening client relationships and facilitating international trade flows.

The dual move—market listing and geographic expansion—highlights Zenith Bank’s ambition to play a larger role in connecting African markets with global investors.