FROM CLASSROOM TO GLOBAL STAGE — DR. EKUNDAYO WALTON GILPIN, AFRICAN BANKER OF THE YEAR 2026, CHARTS THE FUTURE OF DIGITAL BANKING AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION FOR SIERRA LEONE
The Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank (SL) Ltd, Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin, delivered a special lecture to Banking and Finance students at the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) on Friday, 17th July, 2026, inspiring the next generation of financial leaders.
Fresh off being named African Banker of the Year 2026, Dr. Gilpin spoke on the timely topic: “Digital Trust and Financial Inclusion: Building a Modern Banking Ecosystem for International Investors through CRM.” His address centered on how technology, trust, and customer-centered strategies are reshaping banking across Africa.
Dr. Gilpin emphasized that the future of banking is not just about transactions, but about building relationships. He explained how digital platforms must be designed to earn public trust, expand access to the unbanked, and attract international investment by creating transparent, efficient, and inclusive ecosystems.
A major highlight of the lecture was the presentation of a case study titled “How Customers Can Change a Bank’s Dynamics: A Case Study of RC-Bank.” Dr. Gilpin used RC-Bank’s transformation to illustrate how listening to customers, improving service delivery, and leveraging Customer Relationship Management (CRM) can directly drive growth, stability, and innovation within a financial institution.
He told students that customer feedback is the most powerful tool a bank has. “When you put the customer at the center, you don’t just grow deposits — you grow loyalty, reputation, and national impact,” he stated.
The session drew heavy attendance from IPAM students and faculty, many of whom engaged Dr. Gilpin in discussions on fintech, financial inclusion for rural communities, and Sierra Leone’s role in attracting global investors.
As one of the continent’s most respected bankers, Dr. Gilpin’s visit underscores RC-Bank’s commitment to developing local talent and positioning Sierra Leone’s banking sector for a digital future.
