BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) have called for deeper collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE) to accelerate development across the country’s insurance and pension sectors.

Speaking on Thursday in Victoria Island, Lagos, during the inauguration of NAIPE’s newly elected executive members, representatives of both regulatory bodies emphasized that a strong partnership with the media is vital for driving key industry reforms, strengthening economic resilience, and boosting public confidence.

Addressing the newly inaugurated executives, NAICOM’s Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Omosehin—represented by Dr. Julius Odidi—urged insurance journalists to maintain high standards of professionalism and integrity in their reporting.

He noted that because the industry relies heavily on public trust, media professionals play a crucial role in translating complex regulatory policies into clear, accessible information for everyday citizens, ultimately supporting market penetration and consumer protection across Nigeria.

Reminding them that insurance and pension sectors thrive on trust, he implored them to keep expanding the knowledge of the industry by doing more of interpretative journalism for citizens to understand insurance in simple terms.

“The developmental agenda of NAICOM is anchored on reforms that strengthen regulation, deepen market penetration, and enhance consumer protection. These reforms ranging from digital transformation, risk-based supervision, financial inclusion, to pension integration require not only technical execution but also effective communication. This is where synergy with NAIPE becomes indispensable.

“Together, we can ensure that the public understands the benefits of reforms, that operators embrace compliance with enthusiasm, and that the industry’s image is projected positively. The partnership between NAICOM and NAIPE is therefore not a matter of convenience but of necessity.

“As regulators, we rely on your editorial expertise to amplify our vision. As journalists, you rely on our openness and transparency to enrich your reportage. This mutual dependence is the foundation of sustainable growth for the sector”

The Commissioner affirmed that, NAIPE’s role in disseminating accurate information is critical to the success of the industry.

He stressed that, leadership is both a privilege and a responsibility.

And as the new excos steps into roles that demand vision, courage, and dedication, he urged them to build on the solid foundation laid by its predecessors, be innovative in approach and uphold the values of professionalism and integrity that define its association.

“Your tenure should be marked by stronger collaboration with NAICOM, deeper engagement with industry stakeholders and a renewed commitment to educating the public on the importance of insurance and pensions in national development.

“Remember that your voice shapes the narrative and the narrative shapes the future. On behalf of NAICOM, I assure you of our unwavering support. We recognize the importance of your work and will continue to partner with you in every possible way, ” he stressed.

He believes that, with collaboration, reforms can be driven not only to strengthen the industry but also contribute to Nigeria’s economic resilience and social security.

“As you embark on this journey, may your tenure be fruitful, impactful and memorable. May you find fulfillment in service and may your leadership inspire confidence and progress. Let us continue to work hand in hand, regulators and editors alike, to build an insurance and pension industry that Nigerians can trust, rely upon, and be proud of” he added.

Also, Chairman, Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), Mrs. Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu, represented by the Director General/CEO, NIA, Mrs Bola Odukale expressed optimism over new leadership of NAIPE, saying, NIA looks forward to strengthening  collaboration with the Association.

“I have no doubt that under her leadership, NAIPE will attain even greater heights. Your contributions have not only enhanced the visibility and reputation of the insurance industry but have also strengthened national conversations around financial inclusion, economic resilience and sustainable development, ” she emphasised.

She affirmed NIA’s commitment to sustaining and deepening strategic partnership through continuous engagement, knowledge sharing and collaborative initiatives that will further promote the value of insurance to individuals, businesses and the Nigerian economy.

“As you assume the responsibility of leading this esteemed Association, I wish you and your team wisdom, strength, unity of purpose and outstanding success. May your tenure be marked by impactful leadership, professional excellence and meaningful contributions to the growth of insurance journalism and the advancement of Nigeria’s insurance industry” she added.

In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Ebere Nwoji assured stakeholders she would keep the candle burning and the light brighter for the next generation to see her regime’s footprints.

Nwoji reiterated her administration’s agenda: to ensure unity, togetherness and effective coverage of insurance and pension sectors.

She assured stakeholders of NAIPE resolve to keep telling the insurance and pension stories consistently as means of long term savings, financial security and independence.

Given the assurance of propagating the gospel of insurance and pension, she urged operators to ensure that they win public trust.

“This trust can only be won when they keep the hallowed promise of utmost good faith to the customer. This stands as an oath to the insured and contributors from the onset of insurance contract.

In the pension industry, she maintained that operators’ ability and willingness to meet expectation guarantees the workability and mass patronage of the Personal Pension Plan which is a big challenge starring on the faces of both  operators and journalists covering the beat.

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The initiative, launched in celebration of Children’s Day, invited children and parents to share short video stories about meaningful parental sacrifices.

Beyond celebrating the parent-child bond, the campaign encouraged meaningful conversations around financial responsibility, long-term planning and the importance of protecting the dreams of the next generation.

The campaign culminated in an award presentation at the Ecobank Head Office in Lagos on June 24, 2026, where five winning families received a combined cash prize of N1.2 million.

The grand prize winner received N500,000, the first runner-up N300,000, the second runner-up N200,000, and the fourth- and fifth-place winners each received N100,000.

The initiative is part of emPLE’s broader strategic objective to deepen insurance penetration by increasing awareness and adoption of its retail insurance solutions across Nigeria.

Recognising that financial habits are often formed at home, the campaign was designed to encourage parents to introduce their children to essential financial concepts early, helping them understand the value of saving, financial planning, and protection from a young age.

Speaking on the initiative, Jolaolu Fakoya, Managing Director, emPLE Life Assurance Limited, said, “One of our key priorities this year is to deepen insurance penetration by making insurance easier to understand, more accessible and more relevant to everyday Nigerians. The Protecting Little Dreams Initiative reflects that commitment by introducing families to the importance of financial protection through a simple but meaningful experience. We believe that when children grow up understanding the role insurance plays in protecting dreams and preserving financial stability, we are laying the foundation for a more financially secure society.”

“What has been most inspiring is witnessing families forge lasting memories through conversations that will define their children’s futures. Behind every child’s dream stands a parent who has chosen foresight over hindsight, sacrificing today to secure tomorrow. We consider it a privilege to champion these aspirations, reinforcing for families that safeguarding what matters most is not a response to crisis, but a decision made well before life demands it.”

Commenting on the initiative, Aderonke Smith, Head, Bancassurance, emPLE Nigeria, said.”

“At emPLE, we believe financial security starts with intentional planning. Through our partnership with Ecobank, we are making it easier for parents to take meaningful steps towards securing their children’s future. By combining financial education with accessible insurance solutions, we are helping families understand that preparing for tomorrow starts with the decisions we make today. Our goal is not only to protect lives but also to empower families with the confidence to build a more secure future for the next generation.”

As part of the initiative, families received the emPLE Term Life Plan, securing their loved ones’ financial future should the unexpected occur.

The Protecting Little Dreams Initiative reinforces the shared commitment of emPLE and Ecobank to advancing financial inclusion through education, collaboration, and accessible financial protection solutions.

About emPLE

emPLE is a Nigerian insurance brand operating through emPLE General Insurance Limited and emPLE Life Assurance Limited, focused on delivering accessible protection solutions grounded in governance discipline, operational excellence, and sustainability.

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This milestone , according to her was achieved through targeted initiatives that reached children, students, professionals, and various communities across Nigeria.

Speaking at her valedictory virtual press conference marking the end of her tenure as CIIN’s 52nd President, Ilori reflected on her administration’s key achievements.

She described her leadership journey as one driven by a steadfast commitment to expanding insurance education, strengthening professionalism, building capacity, and fostering deeper industry collaboration.

She expressed deep gratitude to the media for their unwavering support in publicizing the institute’s programs, noting that journalists played a vital role in boosting insurance awareness and enhancing public understanding of the sector’s economic importance.

“I came into office with a clear intention to make a difference,” Ilori said. “Leadership should always be measured by the impact it creates and the legacy it leaves behind.”

Ilori explained that her administration was guided by the EPIC agenda—focused on Education, Professionalism, Institutional and Individual Recognition, and Capacity Building. This strategic framework served as the foundation for the institute’s major initiatives over the past two years.

Key Milestones of the EPIC Administration

 Nationwide Advocacy: A defining achievement of her tenure was expanding “Insurance Week” into a nationwide campaign. The initiative took advocacy beyond traditional industry circles and directly into local markets, schools, universities, and public spaces.

 Early Childhood Education: To nurture financial literacy from an early age, the CIIN published two introductory books simplified for children aged 4–10 and 11–16, making insurance concepts accessible and relatable.

 Youth & Tech Innovation: To foster innovation, the institute promoted youth participation through a specialized Hackathon, bringing together students, tech experts, and insurance practitioners to develop digital solutions for the sector.

 The Million-Youth Project: Ilori highlighted a landmark partnership with the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. This digital learning initiative aims to train one million Nigerian youths in insurance and financial literacy, equipping them with the skills to pursue careers in insurance, entrepreneurship, and sound financial planning.

She also praised the strengthened collaboration among insurers, regulators, and professional bodies, noting that these collective efforts contributed to major industry reforms, including supporting the progress of the new insurance bill.

Beyond domestic policy reforms, the CIIN under her leadership expanded its reach to Nigerian insurance professionals in the diaspora, upgraded facilities at the College of Insurance, and enhanced career development through directors’ conferences, specialized training, and student internship opportunities.

Ilori emphasized that the successes of her tenure were the result of industry-wide teamwork rather than individual effort.

“As I leave office, my desire is for this stakeholder collaboration to continue,” she concluded. “It is not about any single individual; it is about the institution and the sustainable growth of the Nigerian insurance industry.”

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The Business Empowerment Programme for Women is one of Transcorp Hotels Plc’s flagship sustainability initiatives, designed to deliver lasting social, economic, and environmental impact. Implemented in partnership with ACE Charity since 2016, the programme equips young women with practical tailoring skills alongside training in entrepreneurship, financial management, marketing, and customer service.

Since its inception, the initiative has empowered 64 young women with the knowledge, confidence, and resources needed to establish sustainable businesses, improve their livelihoods, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s growing economy.

At the end of the six-month training programme, beneficiaries receive sewing machines and other essential tools from the company, enabling them to launch their businesses immediately and become self-reliant entrepreneurs.

Demonstrating its commitment to sustainability, Transcorp Hotels Plc also integrates circular fashion into the programme by repurposing pre-used hotel bedding for practical training. This innovative approach extends the lifecycle of materials that might otherwise become waste while promoting environmentally responsible practices among participants.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Uzoamaka Oshogwe, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Hotels Plc, said: “We believe hospitality goes beyond the experiences we create within our hotels. Through this programme, we are investing in young women, supporting entrepreneurship, creating social and economic opportunities, and promoting sustainability. We are proud of the 16th cohort of graduands and look forward to the businesses they will build, the jobs they will create, and the positive impact they will have on their communities and Nigeria’s economy.”

Transcorp Hotels Plc continues to redefine hospitality in Africa by demonstrating that business success extends beyond exceptional guest experiences to creating lasting value for people, communities, and the environment.

About Transcorp Hotels Plc

Transcorp Hotels Plc is the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc, one of Africa’s leading listed companies with strategic investments in the power, hospitality, and energy sectors. The company is redefining hospitality standards in Africa through its portfolio, including the iconic Transcorp Hilton Abuja and the recently launched 5,000-seat capacity Transcorp Centre.

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The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rex Insurance Limited was elected to lead the association during its 55th Annual General Meeting in Lagos, ushering in a fresh leadership team tasked with steering the industry’s next phase of growth.

The AGM also produced a new executive team, with the Managing Director of AIICO Insurance Plc, Babatunde Fajemirokun, elected Deputy Chairman, while the Managing Director of Anchor Insurance Company Limited, Augustine Ebose, emerged as Treasurer.

Others elected on the council are Managing Director of Coronation Insurance Plc, Olamide Olajolo; Managing Director of SanlamAllianz Life , Tunde Mimiko; Managing Director of SUNU Assurances Nigeria, Samuel Ogbodu; Managing Director of Veritas Kapital Assurance PLC, Dr. Adaobi Nwakuche and Managing Director, of Cornerstone Insurance Plc, Mr. Stephen Alangbo.

Alongside the leadership transition, the association unveiled NIA Pulse, a podcast studio established to improve insurance awareness and strengthen engagement with the public through digital media.

The platform will feature discussions involving regulators, insurers and other industry stakeholders, with the goal of simplifying insurance concepts, addressing misconceptions and promoting a better understanding of insurance products.

Speaking at the launch, the outgoing Chairman, Kunle Ahmed, said the initiative gives the industry an opportunity to tell its own story and better communicate its contributions to the nation’s economy.

He noted that despite paying substantial claims and supporting economic growth over the years, the industry’s achievements have not been adequately recognized due to the limitations of traditional communication channels.

Ahmed added that the digital platform is designed to connect with today’s technology-driven audience by delivering insurance-related content through podcasts and other online channels.

The Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission, Olusegun Omosehin, represented by Julius Odidi, described NIA Pulse as a strategic investment that would improve consumer education and public engagement.

Also speaking, the President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, Mrs. Yetunde Ilori, commended the initiative, saying it reflects the industry’s collective commitment to enhancing its image and increasing public confidence.

The emergence of Mrs. Nwachukwu and the launch of NIA Pulse come at a time of ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s insurance sector, reinforcing operators’ determination to expand insurance adoption and rebuild public trust.

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The Group recently hosted an X Space session themed “Follow the Fundamentals: A Beginner’s Guide to the Stock Market,” reaching over 5,000 users, largely young Nigerians, first-time investors, and retail market participants seeking to better understand investment opportunities in the capital market.

Featuring social media investment influencer, Omiete Inko-Tariah, alongside representatives from Nigerian Exchange Limited and NGX Regulation Limited, the session demystified key concepts around market operations, investor protection, and safe participation. Beyond education, it served as an open forum where retail investors engaged directly with market stakeholders on issues of confidence, transparency, and accessibility.

Speaking on the initiative, Clifford Akpolo, Head, Group Communications and Partnerships at NGX Group, said: “Deepening retail participation is critical to building a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable capital market. At NGX Group, we believe financial literacy is not just an educational responsibility, it is a strategic imperative for strengthening investor confidence, improving market accessibility, and expanding long-term wealth creation opportunities for Nigerians. Through digital platforms like this, we are leveraging innovation to connect with the next generation of investors and democratize access to market knowledge.”

The initiative forms part of NGX Group’s broader sustainability agenda under its Community pillar, which focuses on advancing financial literacy, inclusion, and economic empowerment through education-driven and stakeholder-focused programmes.

Following the success of this edition, NGX Group plans to sustain similar engagements as part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening investor confidence, deepening retail participation, and building a more resilient and inclusive investment ecosystem.

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Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama stated this at the handing over ceremony of the reviewed National Univeristies Commission’s (NUC) Curriculum on Securities and Investment Management(SIM) by the SEC appointed Committee of Experts (drawn from the capital Market and academia)in Abuja, Tuesday.

Agama said the important engagement, signifies not only institutional collaboration, but also the collective resolve to build a foundation for sustainable financial empowerment in Nigeria.

According to him, “Our gathering today goes beyond policy harmonisation or curriculum design. It is about shaping the financial mindset of future generations, equipping young Nigerians with the tools to make informed choices and contribute meaningfully to our development.

“Financial literacy determines how individuals earn, save, invest, and build wealth. It also influences how they engage with the financial system, ensuring they are not left behind in an increasingly digital and knowledge-driven economy.”

He said this is why the SEC remains deeply committed to embedding financial inclusion as a cornerstone of national development, beginning with education, where knowledge and values are first formed.

The SEC DG disclosed that the collaboration with the National Universities Commission (NUC) represents a strategic leap forward; a deliberate and forward-looking effort to integrate financial education into Nigeria’s national curriculum from the primary through to the secondary levels.

“This initiative recognizes that financial discipline and awareness are best nurtured early, when curiosity is highest and habits are still forming. Early intervention is key to producing responsible, confident, and financially empowered citizens.

“I am pleased to note that the pilot implementations in Nasarawa and Ibadan have yielded encouraging results, reflecting strong adaptability, enthusiasm, and measurable impact among teachers and students alike.

“These early successes affirm that when given the right tools and guidance, Nigerian youth can quickly understand and apply concepts such as saving, investing, budgeting, and responsible financial decision-making” he stated.

Beyond imparting knowledge, the SEC Boss said the effort is about empowerment, about giving young people the confidence to participate productively in financial and capital markets adding that as the apex regulator of the capital market, the SEC’s dual mandate to protect investors and deepen the market cannot be achieved in isolation from an informed, financially literate populace.

Agama said embedding financial education into the national curriculum, is investing in human capital, the most critical driver of sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economic growth.

He acknowledged the pivotal role of the NUC in harmonizing academic standards, ensuring that learning outcomes remain relevant to the evolving dynamics of our economy.

This partnership he added, strengthens the bridge between education and enterprise, between classroom theory and the financial realities of everyday life.

Agama noted that the SEC envisions a Nigeria where every student, regardless of background or region, understands the value of money, the principles of investment, and the discipline of financial planning. A Nigeria where financial inclusion is not a distant aspiration, but a lived experience that begins in the classroom and translates into responsible citizenship and national prosperity.

“This initiative could not have come at a more opportune time. As our nation pursues the goal of building a trillion-dollar economy, anchored on innovation, knowledge, and inclusive growth, financial literacy will be one of the strongest pillars supporting that ambition.

“The SEC remains committed to sustaining this momentum, through ongoing support for curriculum development, teacher training, resource provision, and stakeholder collaboration across all levels of education. We will continue to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that the lessons and successes from the pilot states are scaled nationwide.

“Together, we can institutionalize a financial literacy framework that not only empowers the youth but also strengthens the moral and economic fabric of our society” he added.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Committee, Prof. Uche Uwaleke disclosed that the Committee was tasked with reviewing and expanding
the existing curriculum to reflect these developments with a view to making appropriate recommendations to the NUC that ensure that Nigerian universities are not only aligned with global trends, but are also equipping our students with the knowledge and competencies required to thrive in a modern capital market environment.

He said another equally important mandate of the Committee was to design and recommend to the NUC, a Basic Course in Capital Market Studies
to be taken by all first-year students across Nigerian universities. This
initiative is inspired by the recognition that awareness and understanding of the capital market remain relatively low, especially among young Nigerians. By introducing this foundational course, we
aim to promote early exposure, foster capital market literacy, and ultimately deepen financial inclusion — key pillars of the SEC’s developmental mandate.

Prof. Uwaleke said the Committee’s work was guided by a strong sense of purpose and collaboration. The Committee held a total of eight meetings — seven virtual and one in-person — during which we
engaged in extensive deliberations, research, and consultations. The
commitment and intellectual depth brought to the table by each
member were remarkable.

Furthermore, the Committee recommended to the Federal
Ministry of Education, that this basic course be extended beyond
universities to all tertiary institutions — including polytechnics and colleges of education — so that the culture of investment awareness and financial literacy can be mainstreamed across all segments of our educational system.

“As we present this Report today,
we do so with a sense of fulfilment and optimism. We believe that its implementation will mark a major milestone in building a financially
literate generation and in strengthening the foundation for a vibrant,
inclusive, and globally competitive Nigerian capital market” He stated.

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GMW is an annual global awareness-raising campaign on the importance of ensuring that young people, from an early age, are financially aware, and are gradually acquiring the knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviours necessary to make sound financial decisions and ultimately achieve financial well-being and financial resilience.

This is the 12th edition of the global celebration with the theme Protect Your Money, Secure Your Future. Chapel Hill Denham, Coronation Group, Central Securities and Clearing System Plc and Miniemoney partnered with CBN and the Exchange to host the event.

In his welcome address at the event, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NGX, Jude Chiemeka, urged the students to embrace financial literacy and be aware that it is a lifelong endeavour.

He said, “I believe this theme holds particular significance, especially for young individuals like yourselves, who stand at a pivotal juncture in laying the groundwork that will ultimately shape the trajectory and quality of your lives a decade or more from now.

“This event represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to cultivating a community of financially literate future leaders who possess the knowledge and skills to make well-informed financial decisions through the array of financial literacy resources at their disposal. As we navigate the complexities of the financial world, it becomes increasingly evident that financial literacy and responsible money management are not just desirable traits but essential tools for achieving long-term financial security and prosperity.

“I want to assure you that the Nigerian Exchange Limited is here to support you every step of the way,” Chiemeka added.

Also speaking at the event, Lanre Gbadamosi of the Consumer Protection department at the Central Bank of Nigeria, highlighted the ‘Sabi Money Platform of the apex bank and how educative it is for school children.

“Sabi money platform is a platform where we have packaged 15 series of financial literacy topics. Financial planning has to start today and it has to start with you the children,” he said.

The Chief Economist and Head of Economic Research/Intelligence at Coronation Merchant Bank, Chinwe Egwim, in her presentation, educated the students on the different economic terms and how it affects them.

“The first step for securing your future is attending events like this. Having clear goals can help you protect your money. There are some life skills that you need when investing, two of them is patience and self-control,” Egwim stated.

Adaora Obikili, Head Retail Strategy and Development, Chapel Hill Denham noted in her presentation that early starters in investing benefit the most from the power of compound interest. “Saving a portion of your income (at least 3 months worth) prepares you for rainy days. The best time to start saving and investing is yesterday, the next best time is today.”

Stating the role of the Central Securities and Clearing System in the market, Ms Onome Komolafe, Divisional Head, Business Services and Customer Experience, CSCS said that CSCS is like the bank for the Nigerian stock market. It is responsible for keeping track of who owns what stocks and making sure that when people buy or sell stocks and other assets, everything gets handled smoothly and safely.

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