The appointment of banking leader Ezékiel Passam as chairman of the board at General Bank of Cameroon signals a major shift in the institution’s governance. The bank, previously operating as Société Générale Cameroun, has been fully acquired by the Cameroonian State, marking the end of French majority ownership.

New leadership structure finalized in Yaoundé

Following a board meeting held in Yaoundé on July 15, 2026, key appointments were made to complete the restructuring process. Ezékiel Passam, a seasoned banker, takes over as Chairman of the Board, succeeding Alain Malong. Victor Noumoué has been named Chief Executive Officer, moving up from his previous role as Deputy CEO. Jean-Michel Ondo and Roland Firmin Same Dikongue have been appointed Deputy CEOs.

Victor Noumoué, who holds an MBA from HEC Paris, brings extensive experience from his long career within the Société Générale group. His appointment follows the withdrawal of French governance after the State’s full acquisition of the bank.

Cameroon secures majority control of General Bank

In a landmark transaction completed on May 12, 2026, the Cameroonian State finalized the purchase of 58.08% of the shares held by Société Générale in its Cameroonian subsidiary. The deal, valued at 129 billion CFA francs, increased the State’s stake to 83.68% of the total capital. The bank now operates under its new identity as General Bank of Cameroon (GBC), reflecting its fully domesticated status.

The new leadership team is expected to drive strategic growth while maintaining stability in Cameroon’s banking sector. The appointments follow the completion of the nationalization process, positioning GBC as a key player in the country’s financial landscape.