By David Akinmola
Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), one of Nigeria’s leading financial services groups, has announced plans to list its ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) as part of a strategic move to attract international capital and enhance its global market visibility.
The proposed cross-border listing, which follows regulatory approvals and shareholder consent, positions GTCO among a growing list of Nigerian corporates tapping into foreign capital markets to diversify their investor base and improve stock liquidity.
According to a statement from the group, the dual listing will not only bolster its access to global institutional investors but also strengthen its capital base to support expansion across key African markets.
“Our ambition is to position GTCO as a globally competitive African banking group,” said Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO. “Listing on the London Stock Exchange provides us with greater visibility, deeper market liquidity, and access to long-term capital required for sustainable growth.”
The move comes at a time when Nigerian corporates are seeking alternative capital-raising channels amid domestic economic pressures, currency volatility, and constrained liquidity in the local financial markets.
With a market capitalization exceeding ₦1.2 trillion on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) and operations in over 10 African countries, GTCO is well-positioned to attract global investors, analysts say.
Financial experts also note that the LSE listing could pave the way for other leading Nigerian firms to explore international bourses, thereby boosting foreign direct investment (FDI) and enhancing Nigeria’s image as an investable frontier market.
If successfully executed, GTCO will join other Nigerian giants like Seplat Energy and Airtel Africa, which already have secondary listings on the LSE.
The listing is expected to take place within the next financial year, subject to market conditions and final regulatory clearances.
GTCO’s strategic shift underscores a broader push by African financial institutions to leverage global capital pools in driving innovation, digital banking, and regional competitiveness.
