Citizens Trust Bank announces new Consumer Banking Division

ATLANTA, GA - February 28, 2006 - Citizens Bancshares Corporation (OTC Bulletin Board:CZBS), parent company of Citizens Trust Bank (CTB) announced today the formation of a Consumer Banking Division and subsequent staff promotions. The Consumer Banking Division (CBD) has been established to increase the company's efforts and ability to gain market share, increase lasting and profitable business relationships, and support and broaden the company's image within the community.

The CBD key responsibilities include increasing customer satisfaction, increasing core deposits, product development,

wealth management, and community affairs. Bank Senior Vice President Jacques Lee, former Retail Banking Division Manager, was recently assigned to the new role of Consumer Banking Division Manager (CBDM). As CTB's newest CBDM, Lee will be responsible for leading the retail banking, business development, consumer lending and marketing departments as the bank strives toward achieving and exceeding 2006 deposit, lending and market share goals. According to Lee, "This division will be a great asset to Citizens Trust Bank. Prior to the creation of the CBD, these departments were already working together so formalizing this division is certain to only enhance the synergy that currently exists among the department heads."

There were significant promotions announced for two members of the CBD management team. Ardell Walcott was promoted from Retail Operations Manager to 1st Vice President, Retail Banking Division Manager. In addition, Charlotte Moore was affirmed to the position of Assistant Vice President, Business Development Officer for CTB. Citizens Trust Bank's Chief Operating Officer, Cynthia Day said, "Ms. Walcott has proven to be an extreme asset to Citizens Trust Bank. Her promotion is a direct result of hard work, dedication and contributions to the success of our institution. Ms. Moore recently joined CTB with extensive experience in marketing and business development. Their efforts will undoubtedly play a critical role in the success of our new Consumer Banking Division."

About Citizens Trust Bank
As the leader in the financial services industry, Citizens Trust Bank prides itself on offering a full range of quality products and services. Since 1921, the Bank has continued to fulfill its mission to promote financial stability and business development, stress the principles of thrift, and make home ownership a reality. Since its inception, CTB has remained dedicated to the growth and development of communities through superior products and extraordinary service.

Citizens Trust Bank is the third largest African American owned financial institution in the nation and has almost 85 years of history, assets of more than $350 million and eight offices throughout metropolitan Atlanta and Columbus, Georgia, one branch in Birmingham, and one in Eutaw, Alabama. Through its parent company, Citizens Bancshares Corporation, CTB offers its common stock over-the-counter to the general public under the trading symbol CZBS. For more information please visit Citizens Trust Bank on the web at http://www.CTBconnect.com

Contact: Cynthia Day, COO of Citizens Trust Bank (404) 575-8306
J. Todd Atenhan or James R. Kautz, Investor Relations (888) 917-5109