By Adesina Wahab

The Governing Council and Management of Ekiti State University has conferred the Honorary Doctorate Degree in Finance (Honoris Causa) on Akinsanmi Falaki, Head,Public Sector Group,Country-wide First City Monument Bank Limited (FCMB).

Falaki ,a strategic young professional, unique Senior Vice President and strategic business development leader in the banking and finance sector, was honoured in recognition of his distinguished career defined by strategic leadership, financial innovation, and sustained contributions to national development.

The financial expert was bestowed with the honour during the University’s 30th Convocation Ceremony on Saturday April 11, 2026.

The event attracted an array of dignitaries from the financial services sector, academia, and public service, underscoring the significance of the honour.

The conferment places Falaki among a distinguished cadre of leaders whose contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s financial and socio-economic landscape.

In his speech ,the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ayodele Babatola, described Falaki as a transformational leader whose professional trajectory reflects “a rare blend of vision, discipline, and commitment to institutional growth.”

According to the VC : “Mr. Falaki has distinguished himself not only as a high-performing banking executive but also as a strategic thinker whose contributions have strengthened financial intermediation and public sector engagement in Nigeria,” Babatola said.

“His enduring support for this university further reinforces his legacy as a leader committed to societal advancement.

“With over 18 years of experience in Nigeria’s banking industry, Falaki has built a reputation for driving business growth, managing complex credit portfolios, and leading large-scale commercial and public sector banking operations. His career spans key leadership roles at Union Bank of Nigeria Plc and Keystone Bank, where he played instrumental roles in market expansion, risk management, and operational transformation.

“At FCMB, he currently leads nationwide public sector and value chain strategy, overseeing engagements across federal, state, and local government institutions, while delivering innovative financial solutions aligned with policy priorities and economic development goals.

The VC added : “Beyond his corporate achievements, Falaki’s contributions to education and human capital development have been widely acknowledged. His sustained interventions in scholarships, alumni funding, and entrepreneurial support at Ekiti State University have had a multiplier effect on student outcomes and alumni advancement.

The Institution graduated 10,959 students in her 30th convocation where 284 students completed diploma programmes with 11 graduating with distinction, 162 with upper credit and 111 with lower credit.

In addition,10,125 students were awarded first degrees, including 82 with first class honours, 2,794 with second class upper division, 6,020 with Second class lower division, 1,217 with third class while 12 students obtained pass degrees.

At the postgraduate level, the university awarded 550 higher degrees, comprising 155 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 270 Master’s degrees and 125 Postgraduate Diplomas.

Responding ,Falaki expressed appreciation to the University’s Governing Council and Management, noting that the recognition represents both a personal milestone and a call to greater service.

“This honour is deeply significant to me as an alumnus of this great institution,” he said. “It reinforces my commitment to advancing the frontiers of banking, supporting education, and contributing meaningfully to national development.”