Foremost African financial institution, Guaranty Trust Bank plc., has once again reaffirmed its position as a leading global brand with the recent recognition of its Managing Director/CEO; SegunAgbaje as African Banker of the Year during the 2016 African Banker Awards that took place on the sidelines of the AfDB annual meeting on Wednesday, 25th May, 2016 in Lusaka, Zambia.

Now in its 10th year, The African Banker Awards is internationally recognised as the landmark finance event to reward achievements, commend best practices and celebrate excellence in African banking. The award provides a platform to bring together industry leaders from across Africa and celebrate the achievements of those driving economic growth in Africa.

Speaking at the exclusive Gala Dinner at the Intercontinental Hotel attended by over 400 financiers, business leaders, and influential personalities and policy makers, Omar Ben Yedder, Group Publisher of African Banker magazine said “Over the years, I have been privileged to honour some truly exceptional individuals who have left an indelible mark on the industry. Today, we honour a man – Mr. Segun Agbaje - who has redefined the African Banking landscape and built an institution that is Proudly African and Truly International.

Since assuming office in 2011, Mr. Agbaje has led the bank to become one of the most profitable banks in Africa with a well-defined CSR strategy that continues to give back to its host communities through its many philanthropy initiatives.

Commenting on the award, SegunAgbaje, Managing Director/CEO of GTBank said "I am humbled and happy to be recognised as the African Banker of the Year. For me, winning this award for the second time in 5 years is a testament to a great team of passionate and committed people, spurred by a vision to create an oasis in Africa where things are done properly, in line with global best practices.

He further added that “we remain resolute in our goal of building a franchise that is not just African but truly international. As a dynamic and driven team, we are determined to achieve more and consolidate our leading position in the banking industry by aggressively pursuing innovative solutions and maintaining a high standard in creating sustainable value for all stakeholders.

Under his leadership, the Bank has maintained its dominance of the industry by continually recording significant and enviable financial and non-financial performance. His profundity and vivid understanding of diverse financial landscapes has been critical in ensuring the Bank’s successful foray into various financial markets across West & East Africa while maintaining a presence in Europe through its UK Subsidiary.

In due recognition of his visionary leadership, Mr. Agbaje is the recipient of several international accolades such as 2015 CEO of the Year from Finance Monthly, 2015 West African Business Leader of the Year from All Africa Business Leaders Award (AABLA) and 2015 Banker of the Year from World Finance.