USTDA backs Zenith Bank’s digital transformation with training grant

The US Trade and Development Agency has awarded Zenith Bank Plc a training grant to support the bank’s adoption of Microsoft Azure, a hyperscale cloud platform.

The USTDA’s announcement on its website on Monday emphasised the grant’s role in strengthening the bank’s institutional capabilities.

However, the agency did not disclose the specific amount of the grant.

The switch to Azure is expected to increase the bank’s data processing and storage capacity, enabling it to expand its digital banking services while improving transaction speed, security, and reliability.

The Director of USTDA, Enoh Ebong, stated, “This grant demonstrates USTDA’s commitment to supporting the deployment of cutting-edge U.S. digital infrastructure in partner countries like Nigeria.

“Our training grants are an effective tool for strengthening U.S. competitiveness in the global market for highly sensitive digital infrastructure solutions. Zenith’s procurement will provide its customers with trusted technology that will protect their data and privacy.”

Zenith’s transition to the Azure platform will require organisation-wide adaptation of a technology that will also transform internal processes and culture.

Furthermore, the agency said its grant will support training for senior managers and decision-makers on governance and financial management of cloud services for immediate and long-term costs.

Non-technical training for personnel at all levels will help expedite adaptation to the system by sharing best practices in change management in areas like leadership, innovation and collaboration.

The Group Managing Director and Chief Executive of Zenith, Adaora Umeoji, said, “We are happy to partner with USTDA to revolutionise our cloud infrastructure and drive digital transformation and sustainable growth across Africa.

“This partnership reflects our shared vision with USTDA to unlock new opportunities, foster economic development, and consequently shape the future of banking. At Zenith Bank, we are committed to leveraging innovative technologies to enhance financial inclusion, improve operational efficiency, and provide exceptional value for our customers.”

The General Manager of Microsoft Nigeria and Ghana, Olatomiwa Williams, said the USTDA’s grant has been instrumental in enabling us to leverage Microsoft’s hyperscale cloud platform, Azure, to transform Zenith Bank’s cloud infrastructure.

She added that the collaboration will not only enhance Zenith’s digital banking capabilities but also underscore the value of USTDA’s support in fostering US job creation and providing advanced technology in emerging markets.

“By providing the necessary training and resources, USTDA helps level the playing field for U.S. firms, allowing us to deliver innovative solutions that drive economic growth and secure data privacy for the Nigerian people.

“Additionally, this initiative will have a significant positive impact on small businesses by providing them with access to advanced cloud technologies, enabling them to innovate and compete more effectively in the digital economy.

“Microsoft is playing a pivotal role in transforming financial services in Nigeria, and through its partnership with Zenith Bank, it is driving digital transformation. USTDA is making focused investments in Nigeria to build modern digital capacity, further supporting this transformative journey.”

USTDA’s training grant assistance supports US firms pursuing international infrastructure deals when they face a competitive disadvantage from foreign competitors whose governments offer incentives exceeding tender requirements.

USTDA helps level the playing field for U.S. firms by providing grants that fund specialized training and skillset development programs for emerging economy project sponsors if the US bidder is selected.