NIA Chairman lauds past leaders, seeks documentation of industry history

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The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) has marked its 2026 Awards and Recognition Ceremony with a strong call for unity, reflection, and renewed commitment to the growth of the insurance sector in Nigeria, as it celebrated 55 years of existence.

Speaking at the event held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, the Chairman of the NIA, Kunle Ahmed, expressed appreciation to past chairmen and members of the association’s governing council, describing them as the foundation upon which the industry’s progress has been built.

Ahmed noted that the contributions of past leaders had been selfless, particularly as they served without financial rewards, yet laid the groundwork for the association’s stability and credibility over the decades.

“It is with profound joy that I welcome you all to the 2026 NIA Awards and Recognition Ceremony. This journey has been anchored on your selfless service. You made difficult decisions, upheld the highest standards, and safeguarded the integrity of our industry,” he said.

He added that their vision and sacrifices had continued to inspire confidence in the association and the wider insurance industry, stressing that their legacy remains central to ongoing reforms and progress.

Ahmed further urged past leaders to document their experiences in books, noting that such works would serve as valuable reference materials for current and future industry leaders and also extend beyond the insurance sector.

He said, “I would like to appeal to our past leaders to try and capture their experiences in a book. Thankfully, most of you had gone ahead to conquer in other fields, therefore the reach of such publication will transcend the insurance industry. More importantly, such publications will serve as reference points to guide today’s leaders in decision-making.”

The chairman also disclosed that the Governing Council had approved that the recognition of past leaders would become a regular feature of the association’s activities, to ensure sustained appreciation of foundational contributions.

Reflecting on the 55-year journey of the association, Ahmed said the NIA has remained the collective voice of the insurance industry, promoting professionalism, integrity, innovation, and collaboration among stakeholders.
He, however, noted that despite significant progress, more work remains to be done to deepen insurance penetration and strengthen public trust in the sector.

“As we look to the future, let us draw strength from our past. We have made giant strides, but there are still several bridges to climb and several rivers to cross,” he said.

The ceremony brought together key stakeholders in the financial and insurance ecosystem, including regulators, industry operators, and professional bodies.

Some of the awardees are Former Commissioner for Insurance, Alh Mohammed Kari, Mr. Sunday Thomas, Mr. Fola Daniel and others. President, Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, Mrs Yetunde Ilori got the Special Recognition Award in honour of her exceptional service to the NIA, former Managing Director of Lasaco Assurance Plc, Ven. Olusola Ladipo-Ajayi, Chairman, NEM Insurance Group, Mr. Tope Smart, Managing Director, Continental Reinsurance Plc, Mr Fatai Lawal among others.