Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rokel Commercial Bank (SL) Limited, emphasized the necessity for the West African Bankers’ Association (WABA) to deliver tangible value to its members. His leadership at Rokel Commercial Bank (SL) Limited provides a strong foundation for his new regional role. He stated, "The Association must demonstrate tangible value to its members, particularly those questioning the returns on their investment in membership dues." Dr. Gilpin also noted WABA's key role, noting, "WABA has a critical role to play in strengthening oversight of digital transactions, reducing exposure to anti-money laundering risks and combating financial fraud within the region." He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening engagement among bank CEOs and proposed a dedicated communication platform. These remarks were made during a meeting held from April 28 to 29, 2026.
WABA's Role and Gilpin's Vision
Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin was unanimously appointed as Vice President I of the West African Bankers’ Association (WABA). WABA, established on August 10, 1981, in Accra, Ghana, serves as a central platform for banks within the Economic Community of West African States. Since its inception, WABA has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and addressing financial challenges across the sub-region. Dr. Gilpin emphasized the association's role, stating, "The Association must demonstrate tangible value to its members, particularly those questioning the returns on their investment in membership dues." He also noted that "WABA has a critical role to play in strengthening oversight of digital transactions, reducing exposure to anti-money laundering risks and combating financial fraud within the region." Dr. Gilpin reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening engagement among bank CEOs across the sub-region and proposed the creation of a dedicated communication platform to enhance collaboration. His vision aims to make WABA an even more indispensable resource for its member institutions.
Gilpin's Commitment to Regional Banking
Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin's appointment as Vice President I of the West African Bankers’ Association (WABA) was confirmed during the organization's 79th Executive Council Meeting. This significant confirmation occurred in conjunction with WABA's 43rd General Assembly, which convened in Monrovia, Liberia. The dual events show the importance of this period for the association's governance and strategic direction. The meeting served as a forum for strategic discussions and leadership decisions within the regional banking body, bringing together prominent financial figures from across the Economic Community of West African States.
During the same proceedings, Isatu Jawara was confirmed as Vice President II, further solidifying the new leadership structure of WABA. This dual confirmation reflects a significant step in the association's ongoing efforts to strengthen its executive representation and operational capacity across West Africa. The appointments are anticipated to bolster WABA's initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration and addressing key financial challenges within the Economic Community of West African States. The meeting in Monrovia marked a key moment for the organization, setting the stage for its future strategic direction under the newly appointed leadership. The discussions held during the 79th Executive Council Meeting and the 43rd General Assembly are expected to shape WABA's agenda for the coming years.
Strengthening Oversight and Engagement
The meeting where Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin's appointment was confirmed took place in Monrovia, Liberia. This gathering brought together banking leaders from across the region to deliberate on strategic priorities for the West African financial sector. The Liberian capital thus served as the backdrop for key decisions regarding the association's leadership and future direction. The two-day event, held from April 28 to 29, 2026, allowed for in-depth discussions on critical issues facing the banking industry, including the increasing complexity of digital transactions and the imperative to combat financial crime. The presence of numerous banking executives showed the collective commitment to advancing financial stability and innovation within the Economic Community of West African States. The outcomes of the meeting are poised to have a lasting impact on banking practices and regulatory frameworks across West Africa.
