In a demonstration of its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Leadway Group, one of Nigeria’s leading non-banking financial institutions, proudly announces the launch of Hersurred, an initiative that aims to create a nurturing community that empowers women to develop, learn, and excel in both their personal and professional lives.

Coinciding with International Women’s Month, the initiative’s launch brought together women from diverse professions, backgrounds, ages, and beliefs.

This event highlighted Leadway Group’s unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion, reflecting the core values the company embraces.

The Hersurred platform, focusing on lifestyle, is carefully crafted to empower women of all ages and diverse backgrounds. It offers a space to learn, exchange experiences, and tap into resources that facilitate their overall growth and progress, helping them fulfil their academic, financial, mental, and social aspirations. Through this community, women can benefit from impactful mentorship programmes, skill-building workshops, and networking opportunities, enabling their development in various aspects of life.

Speaking at the unveiling of Hersurred, the Chief People Experience Officer, Leadway Group, Mrs. Kunbi Adeoti, expressed her profound enthusiasm for this women-centric initiative, stating, “As one Nigeria’s leading inclusive brands, we have created a platform that celebrates, promotes, and fosters greater financial inclusion and leadership opportunities for women.

At Leadway Group, we believe in the power of diversity and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. Hersurred affirms our commitment to supporting women, from aspiring professionals to seasoned leaders, at every stage of their journey.

“This journey is one filled with anticipation—a journey that we at Leadway Group eagerly and passionately embark upon, envisioning monumental achievements, significant milestones, and groundbreaking records set by the formidable women of Hersurred. We extend an open invitation to every woman to join this transformative community and become an integral part of this voyage of learning, growth, and empowerment,” she added.

Furthermore, Mr. Olusakin Labeodan, Chief Marketing Officer at Leadway Group, emphasised the significance of Hersurred within the context of the company’s broader mission.

“The launch of Hersurred is not only symbolic and commemorative of the month dedicated to celebrating, but as a definitive testament to Leadway Group’s dedication to championing inclusive social, personal and professional development,” he said. “By providing a platform for women to connect, learn, and grow, Hersurred strengthens our internal community as well as contributes to a more inclusive society at large”, he added.

Hersurred extends an open invitation to women of all backgrounds to join this dynamic community and embark on a journey of empowerment and collaboration.

Through shared knowledge, mentorship, and advocacy, Hersurred aims to redefine the narrative for women in the workplace and beyond, shaping a more inclusive future for all.

 A Cross-section of AIICO Women participating in the ‘Paint & Sip’ competition from the Ilupeju Branch

AIICO Insurance Plc., a leading insurer in Nigeria, celebrated International Women’s Day 2024 with programmes and activities aimed at exploring, enhancing, and exhibiting the potential of women, both within and outside of the organisation.

The day unfolded with a series of engaging activities, including a career development webinar, a vibrant painting competition, and the much-anticipated launch of a new entrepreneurial development program specifically tailored to support mothers.

This initiative underscores AIICO’s unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and providing valuable resources that equip women with the tools and confidence to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

According to a press release issued by the company and signed by the Manager, Digital Marketing and Communication, Mr. Segun Olalandu, these programmes, and activities were organised to mark this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) and to give women a new deal in life, positioning them as equal stakeholders in the household economies.

The day kicked off with a webinar titled “Empowering Women, Fostering Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace,” featuring Mrs. Yetunde Ilori, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Insurers Association.

AIICO staff, particularly women, gained invaluable insights as Mrs. Ilori shared her inspiring career journey. They delved into her strategies for navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry and learned how she rose to become a force to be reckoned with. This interactive session provided AIICO’s women with tangible tools and role models to propel their professional growth and contribute to fostering a more diverse and inclusive workplace environment.

AIICO’s branches in Lagos and regional locations erupted in a vibrant display of creativity with the “Paint and Sip” competition! Women across the company unleashed their inner artists, sipping refreshments and letting their artistic spirit flow.

The competition buzzed with excitement as colleagues cheered each other on, all vying for a spot in the top three and a chance to claim their share of the prize money. It was a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a refreshing dose of artistic expression!

The icing on the cake for women was the formal unveiling of the innovative and pacesetting ‘Mompreneur Series’ which empowers moms to become successful entrepreneurs with flexible schedules, stable income, and a supportive environment.

According to Mr. Akshat Kumar, a Learning & Development expert who facilitated the programme, “The Mompreneur Series offers a range of benefits for participants, including the opportunity to work with a trusted and respected company like AIICO Insurance Plc. Participants can enjoy a steady income with flexibility, allowing them to manage their family’s responsibilities while pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. With this initiative, moms would be provided with the tools and resources they need to succeed in both their professional and personal lives.”

“This initiative is designed exclusively for moms, and it offers a unique platform for women to achieve work-life balance while contributing to household income”, he added.

Participants at the first in the series include professionals and career women from various sectors and businesswomen. It was also a great networking opportunity.

In addition to the programmes and activities highlighted above in commemorating IWD 2024, AIICO, in partnership with Wema Bank, sponsored 30 women on the Sara by Wema. The Sara by Wema is specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of women, offering comprehensive insurance coverage that ensures peace of mind across various life stages. It’s a reflection of AIICO’s commitment to supporting women’s health, promoting gender equality, and fostering a society where all women can thrive.

About IWD

International Women’s Day is marked worldwide on March 8 of every year to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating Women’s equality. The theme for this year, “Inspire Inclusion” seeks to inspire other people to understand and value women’s inclusion to forge a better world.

AIICO Insurance is a leading composite insurer in Nigeria, with 60 years record of accomplishment in delivering quality service to its clients. Founded in 1963, AIICO provides life & general insurance, health insurance, and investment management services to create and protect wealth for individuals, families, and corporate customers.

Underwriting firm, Linkage Assurance Plc in the financial year ended 31^st December 2023 recorded outstanding growth across all measurement indices, with gross premium written (GPW) rising to N16.33 billion, from N12.98 billion in 2022, indicating a 26 percent growth.

This is contained in the Company’s Unaudited Financial Statements for 2023 filed with Nigeria’s NGX Limited for shareholders and the investing public.

Further breakdown of the result shows that Linkage Assurance Plc came out strong in the outgone year, posting a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of N4.51 billion, a 67 percent increase from N2.70 billion in 2022. This is as Profit After Tax (PAT) rises to N4.22 billion, from N2.57 billion, a 64 percent increase.

The result also shows that the underwriter’s risk management drive in the year under review was upbeat, despite meeting its claims obligation to clients in a year that had a bash impact of rising foreign exchange gap, inflation and high cost of living.

In the review period, the Company recorded underwriting profit of N705.71 million from N506.12 million in 2022, indicating a 39 percent growth.

It also paid out claims to clients for various losses incurred in the review year, which amounted to N4.49 billion, from N3.09 billion paid out in 2022.

Linkage Assurance also saw outstanding growth in investment income, which rose from N4.87 billion in 2022 to N9.02 billion in 2023. The investment and other operating incomes, according to the company was buoyed by dividend income received from investment in pension business, sundry income from share subscription and foreign exchange gains.

Linkage Assurance Plc’s balance sheet was further strengthened in the review year with total assets rising to N50.52 billion, a 26 percent increase from N39.99 billion in 2022.

Mr. Daniel Braie, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Company said, that Linkage has continued to deploy strategies in line with its growth plans, remaining on top of its core areas from stronger market share, expanding market size, enhancing customer experience, and making sure there is value creation for its teaming investors and other stakeholders alike.

Linkage Assurance Plc is in business to provide first class insurance and other financial services to the African insurance market.

To achieve this, it has deployed exemplary management, best-in-class information technology infrastructure and well-trained and motivated work force as vehicle for achieving the superior returns expected by shareholders.

L-R: Company Secretary, Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Babajide Ibitayo; Managing Director/CEO, Mutual Benefits Life Assurance Limited, Biyi Ashiru-Mobolaji; Managing Director, Mutual Benefits, Niger Republic, Mamadou Abdoulaye; Former Prime Minister Niger Republic/Chairman, Mutual Benefits, Niger Republic, Cheiffou Amaduo; Group Chairman, Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi and Managing Director/CEO, Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Mr. Femi Asenuga at the Mutual Benefits 28th Annual Thanksgiving Service in Lagos.

Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc celebrated its 28^th anniversary last Saturday in Lagos with a firm commitment to continue to deepen insurance penetration in Nigeria through excellent customer service, competitive pricing of products and services and innovation.

Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, the Group Chairman of Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, said at the 28^th annual thanksgiving service of the company that God is the foundation of the insurance firm, right from inception till date.

“Our 28^th annual thanksgiving service is a great opportunity to testify to the goodness of the Lord in the life of Mutual Benefits Assurance in the past 28 years. Our faith in God gave us the strength to withstand and scale all the challenges of the insurance industry in Nigeria and also the rare dedication of the Board, Management and staff of the company- the Mutual family. I also thank members of the media for their unwavering support to Mutual Benefits Assurance since the inception of the company 28 years ago.”

Ogunbiyi emphasised that Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc is committed to its corporate goal of deepening insurance penetration in Nigeria.

“We have value-added products and services for our individual and corporate clients. We are very innovative in our corporate and individual offerings. We shall continue to build on our competitive advantage in the Nigerian insurance market to achieve sustainable growth and profitability. We are a great company. We shall remain great. We are strong and we shall remain strong in this market.”

He expressed deep appreciation to serving and retired staff of the company for their contribution towards the success attained so far in the market by the company.

“I want to assure our partners and other stakeholders, that no matter how uncertain and challenging the economic situation maybe, Mutual Benefits will remain stable, strong and prosperous. However, we have more work to do. We are irrevocably committed to further deepening insurance penetration and we will (with every sense of responsibility) deliver beneficial wealth creating values to doorsteps in Nigeria, Liberia, Niger Republic and beyond. Our highly beneficial values to customers will forever remain unequalled. We will sustain our competitive advantage and never relent in differentiating Mutual Benefits with unique attributes.”

On the future outlook, the Mutual Group Chairman said:

“Our company has been distinguishing itself with services that are of immense beneficial values and that was why we were deservedly adjudged Africa’s Most Innovative Company by the African Reinsurance Corporation. We will always be upfront in doing our best and transparently communicating the intrinsic and extrinsic values of our offerings.”

In his welcome address, Mr. Femi Asenuga, the Managing Director/CEO of Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, said the theme for the company’s 28^th anniversary thanksgiving is: The Lord Our Helper. He said the theme aptly captures the help of God in the affairs of the company in the period under review.

Asenuga said: “We shall mark our 29^th year of existence in 2024. We return all the glory to God for the support over the years. We extend our hand of gratitude to our stakeholders for honouring us today and being an integral part of our journey.”

He added that Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc is ready to break new grounds in the Nigerian insurance industry through cutting-edge innovation and service delivery.

About Mutual

Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc (MUTUAL) has evolved into a conglomerate consisting of value-adding companies with diverse interests in various sectors of the Nigerian economy through investments, strategic alliances, and partnerships.

Today, MUTUAL is a leading brand in the Nigerian insurance industry, with over 3,000 staff and marketing executives in its employment. The company has over 250, 000 satisfied customers in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.

Its subsidiaries include Mutual Benefits Life Assurance Limited, Mutual Benefits Micro-Finance Bank, Mutual Benefits Assurance Niger SA and Mutual Benefits Assurance Co. Liberia.

One of the foremost underwriting firms in the country, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc has announced the elevation of two of its erstwhile General Managers to the position of Executive Directors respectively.

The duo who by their recent elevation will automatically become Board Members of the company are Kayode Adigun who becomes the Executive Director in charge of Finance and Corporate Services while Emmanuel Anikibe is now Executive Director, Technical.

Adigun before now was the General Manager/Divisional Head, Finance and Corporate Services while Anikibe was a Deputy General Manager in the Marketing/Business Development Division. The two appointments have been ratified by the Board of Directors of the Underwriting Firm and they have both assumed their new roles.

Briefing newsmen, the Chief Spokesperson of the organisation, Segun Bankole told the gathering that the Board and Management of the company have so much confidence in the two newly elevated Directors and it is expected that they will bring to bear their consummate wealth of experience in galvanising the organization to the next level of its growth stage. Members of Management and Staff have been enjoined to give all the needed support to the new Directors in achieving the overall objective of the company as a leading Brand in the Insurance Industry and a profitable one at that.

The Managing Director/CEO of Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, Mr. Olaotan Soyinka in his congratulatory message to the two Directors emphasised Management’s commitment to succession plan in the organisation and also stressed that “the elevation is expected to further strengthen the Board and empower Top Management Team of the company in ensuring that the medium-and-long-term strategic goals of the company are accomplished.”

He equally thanked both of them for their immense contributions to the development and growth of the company in time past and charged them to do more than ever before as the organization forges ahead in the years to come.

Kayode Adigun is a graduate of University of Jos and holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State. He equally attended Liverpool John Moore University in the UK, where he bagged an MSc in Governance and Finance. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, CITN, respectively.

He is also an Associate member of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administration, (ACIS). He is an Alumnus of Howard University, Washington D.C, USA and the Lagos Business School, (AMP 21), having completed the Advanced Management Programme of the Institution in 2009.

He joined Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc in 1997 and has over 25 years of experience in treasury, corporate finance, accounting, tax, investments, administration, and human resources functions. He is also an expert in corporate governance structure and framework.

Emmanuel Anikibe is charged with the responsibility of supervising and co-ordinating the operations of the Technical Division of the organisation. He is a graduate of insurance from the Faculty of Business administration, University of Lagos. He also holds an MBA, from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, with specialty in Marketing Management.

He is an Associate of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) and an alumnus of the prestigious Lagos Business School having completed the Senior Management Programme (SMP) in 2009. He has at various times attended several technical, management and Leadership courses in the course of his career. He joined Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc in 1996.

His vast years of work experience includes working as an underwriter at Lion of Africa Insurance Company Limited and Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc where he has held several positions spanning from Underwriting, Reinsurance & Claims Administration, Branch operations, Marketing and Business Development.

L-R: Risk and Compliance Officer, Leadway Capital and Trusts Limited (LCT), Oluwakemi Jenyo; Head, Business Development (LCT), Funmi Dosunmo-Ayoola; Head, Corporate Services, Leadway Holdings, Aishat Bello-Garuba; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (LCT), Ayodeji Wuraola; Team Lead, Trusts Services (LCT), Aisha Navi-Ogene and Head, Trusts Services (LCT), Oliver Obi at the Strategic Media Parley for Leadway Capital and Trusts Limited in Lagos.

Leadway Capital & Trusts Limited is set to play a leadership role in trusteeship business in Nigeria through a plethora of market-friendly initiatives and services.

Mr. Ayodeji Wuraola, the Managing Director/CEO of Leadway Capital & Trusts Limited said at a strategic media engagement in Lagos that the company has plans for a better society in Nigeria through its various programs for individual and corporate clients in Nigeria and for Nigerians in the Diaspora.

Wuraola listed such programs as investment in digital customer experience, focus on the youth population in Nigeria, development of retail products that attend to the mass market, creation of products that technology and venture capital companies have need for and to curate rising Diaspora population with valuable home ties via products and services tailored to their unique needs.

The Leadway Capital CEO said the company currently occupies a comfortable mid-tier position in the trusteeship industry and is gunning for more in the foreseeable future.

In her opening remarks, Aishat Bello-Garuba, the Head, Corporate Services at Leadway Holdings, said the Holdings has become a dependable bridge between the company and the general public.

She added that Leadway Holdings has morphed effectively into a strong non-bank financial services provider in Nigeria, providing individual and corporate customers with value-adding services across the board.

One of the key services of Leadway Capital & Trusts Limited is in the area of Will writing. The company encouraged Nigerians to consider writing their Wills once they reach the age of adulthood to avoid disputes when death occurs in the family.