By Dansu Peter From the serene and culturally rich precincts of Aradagun town in Olorunda Local Council Development Area in Badagry, Lagos ...
By Dansu Peter
Rooted in Community, Raised by Vision
Born and raised in Badagry, Kunle’s journey began from modest beginnings. His early education at the Lagos State College of Education laid the foundation for a trajectory that would soon transcend local boundaries. He went on to earn a B.Sc. in Economics from Lagos State University, followed by a Master’s degree in the same discipline from the prestigious University of Lagos. A high achiever from the start, he emerged as the Best Graduating Student in Monetary Economics in 2000 and served as President of the Rotaract Club of LASU—early indicators of his leadership and academic brilliance.
The Architect of Financial Intelligence
Today, Kunle Ezun is widely regarded as a pillar of economic research and financial market strategy in Nigeria. With over a decade of experience, he has distinguished himself in the highly technical domains of macroeconomic theory, monetary policy, fixed income, and currency analysis. His regional expertise spans Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya—two of West Africa’s and one of East Africa's most strategic economies—offering rare and valuable insights that have influenced business decisions across Ecobank and beyond.
As an economist and strategist, Ezun has advised on critical risks and opportunities affecting corporate and investment banking, as well as retail and private banking segments. He is renowned for transforming complex macroeconomic data into actionable insights, empowering internal business units, multinational corporations, and high-net-worth individuals alike. His voice resonates through meticulously crafted research — from weekly market updates to five-year strategic plans and executive speeches — all bearing his analytical signature.
Steering Research at Ecobank
Ezun’s brilliance earned him a position at Ecobank Development Corporation and later Ecobank Nigeria Limited, where he rose to become Head of Research and Business Development. In this role, he seamlessly translated macroeconomic trends into strategic initiatives, directly shaping the Bank’s growth, competitiveness, and client engagement frameworks.
From weekly market briefings to monthly reviews and annual planning, Kunle became the trusted authority on aligning economic realities with business goals. He led high-level briefings, participated in investment roadshows, and frequently engaged media outlets such as Bloomberg, ThisDay, and Vanguard, as well as institutional investors and rating agencies.
His insights reached beyond national borders. As part of a rotating regional team, Ezun contributed to market intelligence across Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya — strengthening Ecobank’s operations in these key markets. His guidance significantly influenced the Bank’s Asset and Liability Committee (ALCO), especially during times of global economic uncertainty.
A Vanguard of Market Development
Ezun’s influence stretches beyond Ecobank. During his tenure as Head of Research & Market Development at the Financial Markets Dealers Association (FMDA), he played a pivotal role in the establishment of FMDQ OTC Plc — now a cornerstone of Nigeria’s financial infrastructure. He was a member of the technical team that drafted MEMARTs for key dealer workgroups and spearheaded advocacy efforts with regulators including the CBN, DMO, SEC, and CSCS.
He also oversaw the publication of critical financial benchmarks such as NIBOR, NIFEX, NITTY, and Treasury Bills valuations — laying the groundwork for transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s financial markets.
Teacher, Mentor, Thought Leader
More than an economist, Ezun is a builder of people and ideas. As a faculty member at the Ecobank Academy — accredited by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) — he has trained and mentored the next generation of financial professionals. From developing macroeconomic training modules to coaching young economists, his legacy is one of empowerment and shared knowledge.
He remains a prominent voice in public discourse, frequently offering expert commentary on monetary policy, exchange rates, foreign investments, and economic reforms across leading media platforms.
Decorated, Yet Grounded
In recognition of his exemplary service during the NYSC, Ezun was named Best Youth Corper by his local government in 2002 — a testament to a life built on excellence, integrity, and service. A Fellow of the Financial Markets Dealers Association, he continues to contribute meaningfully to economic development initiatives both within and beyond the boardroom.
A Proud Son of Badagry
Despite his global acclaim, Kunle Ezun remains deeply connected to his roots in Olorunda LCDA. He personifies the brilliance and resilience of the people of Badagry — individuals capable of shaping economies and influencing institutions, yet grounded in communal values.
At a time when Nigeria seeks transformative leadership and pragmatic policy thinking, Olakunle Ezun stands as a shining example of intellect guided by vision and discipline. He is not only a professional beacon but also a cultural ambassador for Badagry and a source of pride for Nigeria.
Kunle Ezun is more than a name — he is a voice to heed, a mind to engage, and a legacy in motion..
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