The Reemergence: Almond Awards celebrate Nigeria’s insurance industry leaders
Nike Popoola
The Chairman of the 2026 Almond Insurance Industry Awards Panel of Judges, Sir Ogala Osoka (MFR), has said the process leading to the selection of winners was transparent, with more than 2,000 voters participating in the exercise.
Osoka disclosed this in his welcome remarks at the 2026 Almond Insurance Industry Awards and Consumers’ Nite held on November 6 at the Stable Event Place.
He said the selection process involved strict assessment criteria designed to ensure credibility and fairness, adding that the final winners were determined through a 20/80 assessment model.
According to him, the Panel’s assessment and public votes accounted for 10 per cent each, while industry data contributed the remaining 80 per cent.
He expressed satisfaction with the level of participation, noting that more than 2,000 voters took part in the exercise despite a few challenges encountered during the process.
Osoka explained that the awards, which began in 2018 as a social platform to celebrate the can-do spirit of individuals across different segments of the insurance ecosystem through pop culture and entertainment, had grown into an eagerly anticipated industry event.
He described the awards as more than a ceremony, saying they provided an opportunity to recognise individuals and organisations demonstrating outstanding merit and contributing to the development of Nigeria’s insurance industry.
The 2026 edition featured 10 award categories, including Insurance CEO of the Year, General Insurance Company of the Year, Life Insurance Company of the Year, Takaful Insurance Company of the Year, Micro Insurance Company of the Year and Insurance Broking Company of the Year.
Other categories were Insurance Broker of the Year, Insurance Woman of the Year and Most Valuable Insurance Customer of the Year.
The awards chairman disclosed that a total of 796 nominees were shortlisted for recognition, noting that all nominees deserved commendation irrespective of whether they emerged as winners.
He said the theme of this year’s edition, “The Reemergence,” reflected the industry’s journey and its current position, particularly as it embraces emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence to strengthen its connection with everyday Nigerians.
According to him, the awards celebrated institutions and individuals who continue to push the boundaries of innovation and development in the insurance sector.
Osoka also expressed appreciation to the Almond Group for appointing him chairman of the 2026 Awards Panel of Judges, as well as other prominent personalities who served on the panel.
He further thanked sponsors, partners, guests and other supporters whose contributions had sustained the awards over the years.
He urged guests to enjoy the evening and celebrate the achievements of the industry’s outstanding individuals and organisations.
