By Aaron Paker
Rokel Commercial Bank has been honoured by President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for its unwavering support to the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign and other key national initiatives, in recognition of the bank’s sustained commitment to social protection and national development.
The award was presented during activities marking the seventh anniversary of the Hands Off Our Girls campaign and was received on behalf of the bank by its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin. The recognition was described as a testament to the collective and consistent support of Dr. Gilpin and the entire Rokel Commercial Bank team towards the protection, empowerment, and advancement of girls across Sierra Leone.
Presenting the award, President Bio and First Lady Dr. Fatima Bio commended Rokel Commercial Bank for standing firmly with the Hands Off Our Girls initiative since its inception, noting that the bank’s partnership reflects a strong sense of corporate social responsibility and national duty. They further acknowledged the bank’s involvement in supporting several other national campaigns aimed at strengthening resilience, inclusion, and social development.
According to the President and the First Lady, recognising institutions such as Rokel Commercial Bank is vital in sustaining national advocacy efforts, particularly those focused on safeguarding girls, who they described as “the leaders of tomorrow.” President Bio offered prayers for continued commitment and collaboration to ensure that girls across the country are fully protected and supported to realise their dreams.
The honour was conferred during a high-level dinner hosted on Saturday, December 13, by President Bio and First Lady Dr. Fatima Bio for visiting First Ladies and distinguished guests. The event also celebrated the successful launch of the National Building Resilience Campaign, alongside the seventh anniversary of the Hands Off Our Girls initiative.
Writing after the event, the First Lady described the evening as vibrant and engaging, featuring a rich display of local Sierra Leonean cuisine, including cassava leaves, potato leaves, and other traditional dishes. She noted that the gathering brought together government leaders, policymakers, and development partners to engage in meaningful discussions on addressing pressing social challenges.
“The evening was not only a celebration, but an opportunity to strengthen collaboration and renew our collective commitment to empowering women and girls,” Dr. Fatima Bio stated.
Launched in 2018, the Hands Off Our Girls campaign remains one of Sierra Leone’s flagship advocacy initiatives, mobilising public and private sector actors to combat sexual and gender-based violence and promote the rights, safety, and dignity of girls nationwide.
DIB’s Vision to Lead APC in 2028 Intensifies
Among the presidential contenders of the All People’s Congress (APC) party for Sierra Leone’s upcoming elections, one name continues to resonate across the nation: Dr. Ibrahim Bangura. A household name in Sierra Leonean politics, Dr. Bangura is widely regarded as one of the most capable and committed aspirants vying to lead the country.
Dr. Bangura is one of the strongest APC Flagberearss aspirants who campaign messages has resonant to the party ideology, Heal, Build and Unite.
Dr. Bangura stands out not only for his political experience but also for his deep understanding of the daily struggles of ordinary Sierra Leoneans. His connection with the grassroots is evident in his message, which is centered on unity, national development, and inclusive governance. He has continuously emphasized that his vision is to lead a government that serves all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of tribe, region, or political affiliation.
Over the years, Dr. Bangura has played a vital role in fostering unity within the APC. His commitment to internal reconciliation and cohesion has earned him the respect of both party stalwarts and the wider electorate. By building bridges and promoting dialogue, he has positioned himself as a leader who can bring lasting harmony not only to his party but to the entire nation.
On his nationwide tours, Dr. Bangura has been warmly received by citizens across all regions. These visits have not been mere political rallies; rather, they have been symbols of his readiness to listen to the people, understand their challenges, and incorporate their voices into his policy framework. His approach has shown that leadership is not about imposing solutions but about working with communities to shape them together.
Moreover, Dr. Bangura has consistently advocated for institutional and economic reform, youth empowerment, quality education, and healthcare improvements. He believes that a prosperous Sierra Leone is one where every citizen has access to opportunity and where institutions are strengthened for accountability and transparency.
The youth, the aged, the grassroots and every support are yarning to see Dr. Bangura to lead the APC in the next Sierra Leone’s general election.
As the APC prepares for what promises to be a defining election, many party members and supporters believe that Dr. Ibrahim Bangura represents the best chance for the APC to reclaim State House. His unifying message, pragmatic leadership style, and proven dedication to national development set him apart in the crowded field of contenders.
With momentum building behind him, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura’s path to the presidency may well be a smooth ride not just for the APC, but for Sierra Leone’s future.
