By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The chief executive of AXA Mansard Insurance, Mr Kunle Ahmed, has been elected the 26th Chairman of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA).
At his swearing-in ceremony last week at the 26th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the group, the insurance expert expressed gratitude to past chairmen of the association for establishing a formidable foundation and steering the association on the transformational path.
He also extended his appreciation to his colleagues on the governing council, CEOs of member companies, the director general, management, and staff of the NIA.
Mr Ahmed further thanked the organisation for the confidence reposed in him, calling for the collective support of all stakeholders in the insurance industry to help him succeed. He emphasised the importance of members’ support and collaboration to enable her to take the association to a new height.
“While I pledge my unwavering commitment to the ideals of our esteemed association so we can continue to be a strong pillar of support for our members,
“I am also requesting your support and collaboration to move our association forward, especially at this crucial time in our nation’s journey to economic stability and prosperity,” the AXA Mansard chief said in his acceptance speech.
At the gathering, Mr Ahmed announced the appointment of Mrs Bola Odukale as the new Director-General/CEO of the NIA, effective July 2, 2024, and extolled the outstanding service of the outgoing occupier of the position, Mrs Yetunde Ilori.
According to him, her immense contributions and visionary leadership were instrumental to the repositioning of NIA as one of the cynosures of Nigeria’s financial services sector.
“It is no longer a secret that she will assume the presidency of the Chartered Insurance Institute (CIIN) in a bit. So we wish our dear Mrs Ilori resounding success in this new role,” he stated.
Congratulating Mr Ahmed, the Chief Client Officer (CCO) of AXA Mansard, Ms Rashidat Adebisi, said his election was another testament not just to his contagious passion, dedication, and hard work but also a timely call to service, to consolidate on the strong foundations established by the forebearers of NIA.
Ms Adebisi, who expressed her enthusiasm regarding Mr Ahmed’s new role, stated that, “For us at AXA, we are very proud of this feat achieved by Kunle.
“We also understand the enormity of his election at a time like this in the annals of our industry. So, as he takes on this role, we assure him, the governing council, and the management of NIA of our unalloyed support.”
She reiterated AXA’s continued commitment to support Its employees to contribute to the Increasing need to unlock the potential of the insurance sector in Nigeria, noting that AXA considers its talent development an Important part of strengthening the industry and will continue to encourage Its employees to bring their expertise and experiences to bear on the development agenda of all well-meaning stakeholders In the Industry.
AXA Mansard is a leading financial services provider committed to helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals. With a focus on insurance, asset management, health insurance, and pension fund administration, we strive to provide innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients, helping them progress in their daily lives.
Aduragbemi Omiyale