Consolidated Hallmark celebrates 13 years of nurturing insurance talent

Nike Popoola

Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc successfully hosted the 13th Annual Essay Competition Awards Ceremony, a landmark gathering that united industry leaders, seasoned professionals, and emerging young talents to honour intellectual excellence and forward-thinking leadership in Nigeria’s insurance sector.

Widely regarded as the insurance industry’s most enduring essay competition, this flagship initiative has grown into a leading national platform that promotes rigorous research, sharp analysis, and meaningful conversations on the evolving role of insurance in driving economic growth and resilience.

The event showcased exceptional contributions across two categories. The internal category featured employees from across the Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Group and its subsidiaries, while the external category attracted students and emerging professionals from universities and polytechnics nationwide studying insurance and actuarial science. Participants engaged with timely, industry-relevant themes, presenting well-researched insights and forward-thinking solutions to critical challenges within the insurance landscape. This year’s top honours from the external category were claimed by participants from Imo State University, Owerri; University of Jos, Plateau State; and Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State respectively.

Distinguished guest Mrs. Yetunde Olubunmi Ilori, President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN), graced the occasion and commended Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc for its consistent investment in professional development.

“I have watched this Essay Awards ceremony grow from its early days to its current national stature, and I wholeheartedly congratulate you,” she said. “This initiative perfectly aligns with my agenda and the core mission of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria — the development of manpower. I have no doubt that it has come to stay and will continue to thrive.”
Mr. Kunle Ahmed, Chairman of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), commended the initiative, describing it as a strategic and impactful programme that perfectly aligns with the Association’s agenda for industry development.

“This is a very commendable initiative that strongly aligns with the NIA’s objectives,” he noted. “I congratulate Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc for their unwavering commitment to supporting Nigerian students and nurturing young talent. It is particularly noteworthy that this remains the longest-running essay competition in the Nigerian insurance industry — a true testament to sustained dedication and vision.”

Representing the external winners, Miss Favor Chinonso Agoha of Imo State University, the overall external champion, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of all participants:
“On behalf of myself and every participant, I sincerely thank you for your unwavering commitment to encouraging excellence, talent, and healthy competition. Your support transcends mere sponsorship; it fuels personal growth, builds confidence, and opens doors for young individuals like me to shine.”

In the internal category, Thompson Omons, a staff member of Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc, emerged as the overall winner. Expressing his delight, he said:
“Winning first place in the internal category of the 13th Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc Annual Essay Competition affirms that my efforts are valued. It also motivates me to redouble my commitment; not just to this award, but to excellence in everything I do.”

Winners across both categories received well-deserved cash prizes each, with the overall champions taking home ₦1 million.

Eddie Efekoha, Group Chief Executive Officer of Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc, praised the high quality of submissions and underscored the strategic importance of building intellectual capital in the insurance industry.

“Ours is a knowledge-driven industry, and we must continue to champion initiatives that promote research and innovation,” he stated. “We are open to partnerships that will elevate this programme even further.”

Efekoha reaffirmed the Group’s steadfast dedication to professional growth, industry relevance, and knowledge sharing, noting that the sustained success of the essay competition stands as a testament to the organisation’s long-term commitment to advancing the insurance profession.
The ceremony culminated in a vibrant awards presentation, met with enthusiastic applause from guests and stakeholders who lauded Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc for its unwavering dedication to this impactful initiative over more than a decade.

As Nigeria’s insurance sector grapples with evolving risks, rapid technological advancements, and shifting customer expectations, programmes like the Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc Annual Essay Competition play an indispensable role. By sparking meaningful dialogue, nurturing exceptional talent, and inspiring the next generation of insurance leaders, the competition continues to strengthen the industry’s foundation for sustainable growth and innovation.