New Leadership Takes Charge at General Bank of Cameroon
Banking executive Ezékiel Passam has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors at General Bank of Cameroon (GBC), a financial institution formerly known as Société Générale Cameroun. The Cameroonian state has since become the majority shareholder in the bank, marking a significant shift in its governance structure.
The leadership changes were formalized during a board meeting held in Yaoundé on July 15, 2026, where key appointments were made to steer the institution forward. Alongside Passam, Victor Noumoué has been named General Director, taking over from his previous role as Deputy General Director. The restructuring also includes the appointment of two new Deputy General Directors, Jean-Michel Ondo and Roland Firmin Same Dikongue.
Cameroon’s State Takes Full Control of General Bank of Cameroon
The restructuring comes after the Cameroonian government completed the acquisition of a 58.08% stake held by Société Générale in its Cameroonian subsidiary on May 12, 2026. The transaction, valued at 129 billion FCFA, increased the state’s ownership to 83.68% of the bank’s capital. This move signifies a strategic shift, bringing the institution fully under national ownership.
Key Leadership Appointments
- Ezékiel Passam – Chairman of the Board of Directors (replacing Alain Malong). Passam, a seasoned banker, brings extensive experience to his new role.
- Victor Noumoué – General Director (formerly Deputy General Director). Noumoué, an alumnus of HEC Paris, has spent most of his career within the Société Générale group and was instrumental in the transition following the French group’s withdrawal.
- Jean-Michel Ondo – Deputy General Director.
- Roland Firmin Same Dikongue – Deputy General Director.
The new leadership team is expected to guide General Bank of Cameroon through its next phase of growth under national ownership. The bank, now operating independently under its new name, aims to strengthen its position in the Cameroonian financial sector while maintaining high standards of service.
What’s Next for General Bank of Cameroon?
With the state now at the helm, General Bank of Cameroon (GBC) is poised to implement a new strategic vision aligned with national economic priorities. Industry observers anticipate further developments as the bank adapts to its new governance structure and operational framework.
