About Us

Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (GTBank) is a leading Nigerian multinational financial institution, recognized for its innovation, service excellence, and commitment to sustainability. Established in 1990, GTBank has built a solid reputation as a customer-centric bank, delivering superior financial services to individuals, businesses, and governments.

Licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria, GTBank operates as a subsidiary of GTCO Holding Company (GTCO Plc), following the group’s transformation into a holding company in 2021. GTBank continues to provide impactful financial solutions, fostering economic growth and supporting key sectors of the economy.

Since its inception, GTBank has grown into one of the most respected brands in Africa, known for pioneering the adoption of digital banking technologies and setting new industry standards for service quality and efficiency. With a footprint that spans multiple African countries and the United Kingdom, GTBank remains committed to offering innovative financial products while fostering sustainable development.

Mission Statement

“Our mission is to build a world-class financial institution that delivers superior and innovative banking solutions with the highest ethical standards, creating long-term value for all stakeholders.”

Vision Statement

“To be the leading financial services provider in Africa, setting the standard for innovation, efficiency, and customer service while making a positive impact in the communities where we operate.”

GTBank Group

GTBank operates under the umbrella of GTCO Plc, a holding company that oversees several financial subsidiaries across various sectors. As of 2023, GTBank has subsidiaries in key African countries such as Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Cote d’Ivoire. The bank also has a presence in the United Kingdom, offering international financial services and facilitating cross-border business.

The transformation into a holding company structure reflects GTBank’s commitment to diversify its offerings, including investments in payment systems, asset management, and pension services, while maintaining excellence in traditional banking operations.

Key Highlights

1. Founding and Growth
  • Established in 1990 by visionary bankers Tayo Aderinokun and Fola Adeola, GTBank was founded with the goal of delivering exceptional customer service, strong corporate governance, and financial transparency.
  • It became publicly listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1996, raising capital for rapid growth.
2. Operations and Regional Presence
  • Wide Service Offering: GTBank provides retail, corporate, investment banking, and asset management services, among others.
  • Digital Innovation: The bank is a pioneer in mobile, internet, and SMS banking, offering modern digital solutions.
  • Global Expansion: GTBank operates in multiple countries, including Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Europe through its UK subsidiary.
3. Commitment to Innovation
  • GTBank was among the first banks in Nigeria to launch internet and SMS banking, introducing mobile apps for seamless transactions.
  • It continuously upgrades its infrastructure, ensuring smooth and secure digital experiences for customers.

4. Reputation and Leadership

  • Known for transparency and corporate governance, GTBank enjoys a strong reputation for customer-centric banking.
  • The bank has earned numerous awards for innovation, customer service, and performance, including accolades from Euromoney and The Banker.

Key Milestones in GTBank’s Growth

  • 1990: GTBank was founded by Tayo Aderinokun and Fola Adeola, with a focus on offering corporate banking services.
  • 1996: The bank became the first Nigerian financial institution to introduce online banking services, setting new benchmarks for innovation.
  • 2007: GTBank listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) through a Global Depository Receipt (GDR) program, becoming the first Nigerian company to do so.
  • 2011: The bank launched GTBank Mobile App, one of the first mobile banking platforms in Nigeria, enabling customers to access services conveniently on the go.
  • 2013: Expanded into East Africa by establishing operations in Kenya and Uganda.
  • 2021: GTBank transitioned into GTCO Holding Company, giving rise to a multi-sector group with interests in pensions, asset management, and fintech.
  • 2022: Launched HabariPay, a fintech subsidiary aimed at transforming the payments landscape through digital solutions.

Evolution to GTCO: A Strategic Transition (2021)

In 2021, GTBank transformed into a holding company (GTCO) to diversify beyond traditional banking. This shift enables GTCO to explore fintech, asset management, payments, and other non-banking services, while the bank remains a key subsidiary under the holding structure.

Expansion and Innovation (1990s – 2000s)
  • Regional Growth: GTBank expanded operations across The Gambia, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and other African countries, followed by London, UK.
  • ISO Certification: In 2002, it became the first Nigerian bank to receive ISO 9001:2000 certification for quality management.
  • Pioneering Technology: GTBank introduced GTConnect (an interactive voice response system) and GTBank Internet Banking in 2009.
Leadership and Consolidation
  • Segun Agbaje, part of the founding team, succeeded Tayo Aderinokun as CEO in 2011. Under his leadership, GTBank strengthened its position through a customer-centric approach and innovative digital platforms.

Banking Products and Services

Personal Banking
  • Savings Accounts: Options include GTSave, Smart Kids Save (SKS), and Fixed Deposit Accounts.
  • Digital Savings: GTBank E-Savers offers online-only savings with competitive interest.
  • Loans: Products like Salary Advance, Personal Loans, School Fees Advance, and Asset Finance cater to individual financial needs.
Digital Banking Services
  • Mobile App (GTWorld): Allows customers to manage accounts and make payments via smartphones.
  • USSD Banking (737 Service): Enables transactions on basic phones without internet access.
  • Internet Banking: Full-service online platform for fund transfers, bill payments, and more.
  • ATM Services: Cash withdrawals, bill payments, and account services through ATMs nationwide.
Business and Corporate Services
  • SME Loans and Business Accounts: Tailored financial solutions for entrepreneurs and growing businesses.
  • Corporate Finance: Financing for mergers, acquisitions, and large projects.
  • Trade Finance: Services like letters of credit and trade loans to support import/export activities.
  • Cash Management Services: Solutions to optimize cash flow for large enterprises.
Investment Services
  • Fixed Deposits: Guaranteed returns on investments for a fixed period.
  • Bonds and Treasury Bills: Access to government-issued securities.
  • Mutual Funds: Investment products to grow wealth over time.
International Banking
  • Domiciliary Accounts: Accounts in USD, GBP, or EUR for international transactions.
  • Foreign Exchange Services: Currency exchange solutions for both individuals and businesses.
  • Money Transfers: International remittance services via Western Union, MoneyGram, and SWIFT.
Other Services
  • Wealth Management: Investment advisory and asset management solutions.
  • Insurance: Life and general insurance products, including health and travel insurance.
  • Payment Solutions: POS terminals and merchant services to facilitate seamless payments for businesses.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

GTBank is committed to community development through initiatives in education, health, and sports.

  • Autism Awareness: The bank runs annual autism conferences to promote awareness and support.
  • Educational Programs: GTBank partners with schools and provides scholarships.
  • Sports Sponsorship: The bank sponsors local football tournaments to foster sports development.

Achievements and Recognitions

GTBank has received numerous local and international awards, recognizing its leadership and excellence in the banking sector:

  • “Best Bank in Nigeria” – Euromoney Awards for Excellence.
  • “African Bank of the Year” – African Banker Awards, for its commitment to innovation and customer service.
  • “Most Innovative Digital Bank” – Global Finance Awards, in recognition of its cutting-edge digital solutions.
  • “Best Retail Bank in Africa” – The Banker magazine.
  • Consistently ranked among the top 5 banks in Nigeria by the Central Bank of Nigeria for operational efficiency and sound corporate governance.

Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

GTBank’s focus on innovation and sustainable development has positioned it as a leader in financial technology and responsible banking:

  • AI-Powered Chatbots: Helping customers resolve queries quickly and efficiently through automated support systems.
  • Biometric Security: Enhanced security measures using facial and fingerprint recognition for transactions and account access.
  • Environmental Responsibility: GTBank actively supports green initiatives and has launched campaigns aimed at promoting sustainable business practices.
  • Financial Inclusion: Through initiatives like Agent Banking and partnerships with fintechs, GTBank is committed to improving financial access for underbanked communities.

Summary

GTBank has established itself as a pioneer in the African financial landscape, known for innovation, customer-centric services, and operational excellence. With a growing presence across Africa and the UK, the bank is well-positioned to drive sustainable growth and continue meeting the evolving needs of customers.

As part of GTCO Holdings, GTBank’s future is focused on diversification, leveraging technology to deliver world-class financial products, and expanding into new markets. With a proven track record, robust digital platforms, and a commitment to sustainability, GTBank remains a trusted partner for individuals, businesses, and governments.