Strong governance, not just capital, will drive insurance future under NIIRA Act - Akwiwu - Newstrends
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Strong governance, not just capital, will drive insurance future under NIIRA Act – Akwiwu

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L-R: Chairman, Retreat Planning Committee, Oluwamuyiwa Aderibigbe and Executive Director (Technical), Continental Reinsurance Plc, Chukwuemeka Akwiwu, at the annual retreat of the Risk, Audit, and Compliance Committee (RACC), a committee under NIA, held recently in Abeokuta, Ogun State

Strong governance, not just capital, will drive insurance future under NIIRA Act – Akwiwu

As Nigeria’s insurance industry braces for a transformative wave under the NIIRA Act 2025, the Executive Director (Technical) of Continental Reinsurance Plc, Chukwuemeka Akwiwu, has issued a clear call to action: prioritize governance alongside capital.

Speaking at the annual retreat of the Risk, Audit, and Compliance Committee (RACC) of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), held recently in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Akwiwu emphasized that while recapitalization strengthens balance sheets, only strong governance can ensure sustainable growth.

The retreat, themed “Insurance Industry Recapitalization: Strengthening Governance Activities for Maximum Benefits”, provided a platform to reflect on the implications of the new capital requirements—N10 billion for life, N15 billion for non-life, N25 billion for composite, and N35 billion for reinsurance companies.

Strong governance

“With recapitalization, we now have the capacity to underwrite more and take on larger risks,” Akwiwu noted. “But that also increases our responsibility. Governance must lead the way—defining exposure limits, guiding underwriting decisions, and embedding control mechanisms.”

He cautioned that capital, while essential, is not a guaranteed asset unless managed with diligence.

“Capital is fleeting. It comes and goes. But it tends to stay where strong governance structures are in place,” Akwiwu said. “Governance is the multiplier of capital—it preserves it and amplifies its impact.”

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Akwiwu stressed that boards and leadership teams must move beyond box-ticking compliance. True transformation, he argued, lies in embedding a culture of strategic oversight and risk management across every layer of the organization.

> “This is not business as usual. Compliance must not be reactive—it should be a proactive guiding principle. Every stakeholder must take ownership,” he asserted.

He also urged a shift in boardroom dynamics, calling for merit-based appointments and rigorous skills gap analyses.

> “Gone are the days when board seats were filled by friends or political considerations,” he said. “We must choose directors based on the value they bring—on their ability to hold management accountable and steer the company toward its goals.”

Looking ahead, Akwiwu expressed optimism about the sector’s role in Nigeria’s aspiration toward a $1 trillion economy. He said the alignment of robust capital with credible governance would deepen public trust and broaden insurance penetration.

He concluded by advocating closer collaboration with NAICOM, the industry regulator, stressing that transparency and stakeholder engagement would be crucial for a smooth and successful recapitalization process.

 

 

Strong governance, not just capital, will drive insurance future under NIIRA Act – Akwiwu

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Regency Alliance Insurance Launches Rights Issue to Strengthen Capital Base, Drive Expansion

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Regency Alliance Insurance Launches Rights Issue to Strengthen Capital Base, Drive Expansion
L-R: Director, Regency Alliance Insurance Plc, Mr Kehinde Oyadiran; Director, Dr Comfort Otegbeye; Managing Director, Mr Bode Oseni; Executive Director Corporate Services & Company Secretary; Mrs Anu Shobo; and Chairman, Chief Wale Taiwo, SAN, at signing of its Rights Issue Agreement in Lagos on Wednesday

Regency Alliance Insurance Launches Rights Issue to Strengthen Capital Base, Drive Expansion

LAGOSRegency Alliance Insurance Plc has taken a significant step toward strengthening its financial position and accelerating business growth with the formal signing of its Rights Issue Agreement, paving the way for a fresh capital injection aimed at enhancing the company’s competitiveness and long-term sustainability.

The signing ceremony, held at the insurer’s headquarters in Lagos on Wednesday, brought together members of the Board of Directors, management team, issuing house, legal advisers, stockbrokers and other stakeholders, reflecting widespread confidence in the company’s strategic direction and growth prospects.

Under the Rights Issue, Regency Alliance Insurance Plc is offering 3.201 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at 95 kobo per share, on the basis of one new ordinary share for every five ordinary shares currently held by shareholders.

The capital raise is expected to bolster the company’s capital base, improve underwriting capacity and provide funding for strategic investments in technology, product innovation and customer service enhancement.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Acting Chairman of Regency Alliance Insurance Plc, Chief Wale Taiwo, SAN, described the development as a major statement of confidence in the company’s future.

According to him, the exercise represents more than a regulatory requirement, noting that it reflects faith in the organisation’s workforce, business strategy and the trust reposed in it by customers and shareholders over the years.

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“Today’s signing is more than a formality. It is a statement of belief – belief in our people, our strategy, and the trust our customers and shareholders have placed in us over the years,” Taiwo said.

He explained that the additional capital would enable the company to respond more effectively to evolving risk landscapes, expand its market reach and strengthen its commitment to policyholders.

“This capital raise will give us the firepower to meet evolving risks, expand our reach, and deepen the promise we make to every policyholder: that Regency Alliance will be there when it matters most,” he added.

Taiwo also expressed appreciation for the continued support of shareholders and urged all eligible investors to fully participate in the offer.

He noted that taking up their rights would not only protect existing investments from dilution but also allow shareholders to benefit directly from the company’s future growth and profitability.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of the company, Mr. Bode Oseni, said the proceeds from the Rights Issue would accelerate Regency Alliance’s ongoing digital transformation agenda and support the development of innovative insurance products targeted at underserved market segments.

According to Oseni, the company remains committed to maintaining its reputation as an agile, customer-focused and financially sound insurer.

“The proceeds from this Rights Issue will accelerate our digital transformation, enhance claims efficiency, and enable us to introduce innovative products tailored to SMEs, Gen Z, and other underserved segments across Nigeria and beyond,” he said.

“We are not merely raising capital; we are raising our ambition.”

He expressed optimism that shareholders would embrace the opportunity and demonstrate confidence in the company’s future by fully subscribing to the offer.

Regency Alliance stated that the Rights Issue is intended to strengthen its solvency position, support business expansion and fund investments in digital infrastructure and new product development.

The company noted that existing shareholders would have the opportunity to subscribe for additional shares in proportion to their current holdings, thereby preserving their ownership interests while participating in future value creation.

Management further said the successful execution of the signing process demonstrates strong confidence among advisers and stakeholders in the company’s corporate governance framework, risk management systems and long-term business strategy.

According to the timetable released by the company, the Acceptance List will open on June 22, 2026, and close on July 3, 2026, during which eligible shareholders are expected to submit their applications.

Regency Alliance Insurance Plc has established itself as one of Nigeria’s leading general insurance providers, offering a broad range of insurance products to individuals and businesses across the country. The company is known for prompt claims settlement, innovative insurance solutions and adherence to strong corporate governance standards.

With the signing of the agreement and the completion of required regulatory approvals, the company said it would proceed with shareholder communications and implementation of the offer in compliance with the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

The Board and Management expressed confidence that the Rights Issue would receive strong shareholder support and position the insurer for sustainable growth, enhanced profitability and increased market relevance in Nigeria’s evolving insurance industry.

Regency Alliance Insurance Launches Rights Issue to Strengthen Capital Base, Drive Expansion

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Immigration Service Honours Lasaco Assurance MD Over Product Innovation

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Immigration Service Honours Lasaco Assurance MD Over Product Innovation

Immigration Service Honours Lasaco Assurance MD Over Product Innovation

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Lagos State Command, has honoured the Managing Director of Lasaco Assurance Plc, Mr. Ademoye Shobo, in recognition of his contributions to product innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth within Nigeria’s insurance sector.

The recognition was presented during a courtesy visit by senior officials of the Nigeria Immigration Service to the corporate headquarters of Lasaco Assurance Plc in Lagos.

The delegation, led by the Deputy Comptroller of Immigration and Passport Control Officer (PCO), engaged the management of the insurance company in discussions focused on institutional collaboration, improved service delivery, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth across both the public and private sectors.

The visit also provided an avenue for both organisations to strengthen existing relationships and explore opportunities for deeper cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

As part of the highlights of the engagement, the immigration officials presented an award to Mr. Shobo for his role in strengthening risk management systems and driving business growth through innovative insurance products and customer-focused strategies.

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The Nigeria Immigration Service delegation commended the leadership of Lasaco Assurance Plc for maintaining high standards of professionalism, innovation, and service delivery in the highly competitive insurance industry.

The officials noted that the company has continued to distinguish itself through operational resilience, strategic growth initiatives, and its commitment to providing value-driven insurance solutions to customers and stakeholders.

Speaking during the engagement, the Managing Director of Lasaco Assurance Plc, Mr. Ademoye Shobo, expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Immigration Service for the recognition and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustaining a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the agency.

He stressed the importance of collaboration between public institutions and private sector organisations in promoting national development, operational efficiency, and improved customer service delivery.

According to him, Lasaco Assurance Plc remains committed to innovation, stakeholder confidence, and sustainable business growth through strategic partnerships and continuous improvement in service delivery.

The management of the company also described the courtesy visit as a significant step towards deepening institutional relationships and enhancing cooperation between both organisations.

They noted that continuous engagement between government agencies and private organisations remains essential in building trust, encouraging knowledge exchange, and promoting operational synergy capable of supporting national economic growth and development.

The visit further highlighted the growing importance of strategic partnerships between the public and private sectors in driving institutional excellence, improving operational standards, and strengthening service delivery across industries.

Lasaco Assurance Plc reiterated its commitment to maintaining operational efficiency, delivering customer-focused insurance solutions, and sustaining growth through innovation and strategic collaborations.

Immigration Service Honours Lasaco Assurance MD Over Product Innovation

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Lasaco Assurance Posts 81.5% Profit Surge in Q1 2026 Results

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Lasaco Assurance Plc

Lasaco Assurance Posts 81.5% Profit Surge in Q1 2026 Results

Lasaco Assurance Plc has begun the 2026 financial year on a strong note, posting an 81.5% increase in profit after tax in its unaudited Q1 2026 financial results, driven by improved underwriting performance, stronger investment returns, and enhanced operational efficiency. The company recorded a profit after tax of ₦2.36 billion, up from ₦1.30 billion in the same period of 2025, reflecting sustained momentum in its core insurance operations in Nigeria.

A key highlight of the performance was the sharp growth in insurance service results, which rose by 119.6% to ₦4.22 billion, compared to ₦1.92 billion in Q1 2025. The company attributed this growth to stronger risk selection processes, improved claims management efficiency, and a more profitable insurance portfolio structure, which helped enhance underwriting margins.

Lasaco Assurance also recorded significant growth in net insurance and investment results, which increased by 74.7% to ₦5.14 billion, up from ₦2.94 billion in the previous year. This performance underscores the company’s ability to balance income from insurance underwriting activities with returns from its investment portfolio, even amid a challenging economic environment.

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The company’s total assets rose by 16.6% to ₦46.20 billion, compared to ₦39.63 billion recorded in March 2025, reflecting steady balance sheet expansion. Cash and cash equivalents also grew by 24.5% to ₦18.45 billion, strengthening liquidity and improving the company’s capacity to meet claims obligations and operational needs. In addition, reinsurance contract assets increased by 34.9%, signalling higher risk-sharing arrangements and improved underwriting capacity.

A major financial highlight was the turnaround in retained earnings, which moved from a negative position of ₦573 million in December 2025 to a positive ₦1.55 billion in Q1 2026. This improvement reflects stronger earnings quality and reinforces shareholder confidence in the company’s long-term financial stability and growth outlook.

The company also reported an 81.5% increase in earnings per share (EPS), which rose to 21.29 kobo from 11.73 kobo, highlighting improved profitability and efficient capital utilisation.

Operating expenses increased by 30.3% to ₦1.81 billion, driven by planned investments in business expansion, technology, and operational improvements. Despite the rise in costs, revenue growth significantly outpaced expenditure, resulting in stronger overall profitability and improved margins.

The Q1 2026 results reflect Lasaco Assurance’s continued focus on product innovation, risk management, and customer service enhancement. With strong earnings growth, improved liquidity, and a healthier balance sheet, the company is positioned to sustain its momentum in Nigeria’s insurance sector performance outlook for 2026.

Lasaco Assurance Posts 81.5% Profit Surge in Q1 2026 Results

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