New leadership takes charge at general bank of Cameroon

The banking sector in Cameroon is undergoing a significant transformation as the state officially consolidates its control over the former Société Générale Cameroon. A newly appointed leadership team has been installed at the helm of the renamed General Bank of Cameroon (GBC), marking a definitive shift in the institution’s governance.

new directions for a key financial institution

The restructuring follows the state’s acquisition of a majority stake in the bank, a process finalized earlier this year. Among the key appointments, Ezékiel Passam, a seasoned banker, has been named Chairman of the Board, replacing Alain Malong. This decision was made during an extraordinary board meeting held on July 15, 2026, in Yaoundé.

Victor Noumoué, previously Deputy CEO, has been promoted to the position of Managing Director. Noumoué, a graduate of HEC Paris, brings extensive experience from his long tenure within the Société Générale group. His appointment comes as part of a broader restructuring initiative following the withdrawal of French governance.

executive team composition

The leadership team at General Bank of Cameroon now includes:

• Ezékiel Passam – Chairman of the Board of Directors
• Victor Noumoué – Managing Director
• Jean-Michel Ondo – Deputy Managing Director
• Roland Firmin Same Dikongue – Deputy Managing Director

state-backed transition with long-term implications

The state’s decision to fully take over the bank—acquiring 58.08% of Société Générale’s shares for 129 billion FCFA—now gives it an 83.68% ownership stake. This strategic move aims to realign the financial institution’s operations with national economic priorities and strengthen its role in Cameroon’s banking sector.

The renaming of the bank to General Bank of Cameroon (GBC) reflects this new identity and governance structure, positioning it as a fully Cameroonian-owned financial institution with a clear path to future growth and regional influence.