H.E. Professor Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, the former President of Mauritius and Laureate of the 2007 L’Oréal-UNESCO Prize for Women in Science, delivered a trenchant address at the African Export-Import Bank’s (Afreximbank) fifth annual Babacar Ndiaye Lecture on “the importance of science, technology and innovation in the transformation of African economies.”
She called on African leaders to close the region’s science and technology gap to take full advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Professor Gurib-Fakim, delivered the keynote speech at the Bank’s annual flagship event and laid bare a raft of statistics that showed that Africa is falling well behind the rest of the world in science, technology, and innovation (STI).
Only 0.1% of all patent applications are registered in Africa, compared to 65% in Asia and 25% in North America. Africa is also responsible for only 2% of the world’s research output and 1% of research spending. Furthermore, the laggards in Africa have 11 researchers per million people whilst the best performing countries in the world, such as South Korea and Denmark had between 7,000-8,000 scientists and researchers per million people.
“How can a continent with the largest share of arable land, a continent with the youngest population, a continent that has fueled all of the world’s industrial revolution, a continent that has helped drive the mobile phone industry, a continent that is at the cusp of supporting the world’s energy transition to greener technology with a large store of rare earth deposits accept such dismal statistics?” she asked.
She blamed “chronic neglect”, the statistics demonstrating that the chronic deficit of researchers and scientists has undoubtedly contributed to the poverty trap that the continent finds itself in. “The deficit of investment in science and technology and absence of economic and scientific infrastructure has undermined the process of economic transformation both at the structural level and at the sectoral level. The consequences of that deficit have been significant and include continued reliance on the colonial model of resource extraction largely responsible for the debilitating poverty trap and aid dependence trap.”
The former President remarked that Africa’s failure to advance in science and technology has been compounded by the fragmentation of its markets. She praised the establishment of AfCFTA for overcoming this hurdle and creating the largest single market in the world by membership. However, the economic transformation anticipated by the free-trade market hinges on Africa “closing its scientific and technological gap with the rest of the world” and “sustainably producing the right set of skills to expand both extra and intra African trade.”
This will require collaboration and partnerships to create the right conditions to develop centres of excellence on the continent. Academia, governments and the private sector, she argued, would have to collaborate much more closely to ensure the funding is provided and that the conditions for science to thrive are put in place.
In this regard, she praised the leadership role played by Afreximbank in the medical field where the Bank is supporting the growth of pharmaceutical industries and establishment of medical center of excellence.
Professor Gurib-Fakim reminded the audience that the increasing role of technology that was permeating all sectors and industries and driving growth was irreversible. She praised Africa’s successes in certain areas like mobile money, giving the example of M-Pesa which has been adopted in the rest of Africa after being created in Kenya.
She equally praised Afreximbank’s Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) which is set to facilitate payments for cross-border trade in African currencies and assuage the liquidity constraints.
One of the major challenges, she said, is the continued brain drain of Africa’s brightest and best scientific minds. The former President encouraged the private and public sector to invest much more in education and research and development. “Every young African has the potential to be a great scientist, to innovate and become globally competitive,” she said.
Professor Benedict Oramah, the President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, introduced the lecture by observing that although Africa gained independence six decades ago it has nonetheless failed to achieve economic emancipation.
Professor Oramah said that the failure of Africa to secure Covid-19-related equipment such as face masks and ventilators shows that the continent must start manufacturing its own technological goods.
The President of the Bank further pointed out that “while the AfCFTA was a necessary condition for the transformation of African economies, it was not a sufficient one, especially in a world where trade has been largely driven by manufactured goods with increasing technological content.” Among the set of constraints undermining the capacity of the AfCFTA to deliver on its full potential none was as critical as closing the region’s scientific and technological gap.
He said: “The most competitive countries in the world are also the ones leading in ICT, innovation, scientific research and development. Africa cannot be kept at the back of the queue.” He also stressed the need to foster the collaboration between research and industry to further enhance the growth and development impact of scientific discovery across the region.
The President of the Bank remarked that Africa once boasted some of the most wealthy and industrious city-states and kingdoms – something that has been forgotten by the rest of the world. He quoted the Portuguese explorer Pedro Alvares Cabral who in the 1500s landed on the coast of Tanzania and found a land full of rich merchants. He also referenced Lourenco Pinto, a Portuguese merchant, who noted that the capital city of the Kingdom of Benin, in modern day Nigeria, was larger than Lisbon and both industrious and wealthy.
Professor Sarah Anyang Agbor, Commissioner of Human Resources, Science and Technology at the African Union Commission (AUC), spoke about continental plans to boost science and technology in Africa.
The AUC has set in place its Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024 (STISA-2024) that aims to promote the building and upgrading of research institutions, amongst other things. The plan fits within the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063, she said.
Dr. Hippolyte Fofack, Afreximbank’s Chief Economist, wrapped up the event by echoing Professor Oramah’s statements that “Africa was the epicentre of and the birthplace of astronomy and mathematics.”
He referenced the Dogon community in Mali who for centuries has been fully aware of an invisible star, Sirius B, long before it was discovered by Western astronomers in 1970. “Africa’s current scientific and technological gap with the rest of the world was a historical anomaly”, he added.
However, Dr Hippolyte Fofack welcomed on-going efforts (though still marginal) by both public and private institutions to mainstream science and technology across the region.
He added that Afreximbank has long championed technology and innovation as important drivers of Africa’s economic growth and structural transformation, convinced that setting Africa back on the path of scientific renaissance was a sine qua none condition for economic renaissance and structural transformation.
Lebo Mashile, a South African poet and writer, opened the lecture with a grand and evocative poem that touched on various themes of African history and the continent’s interaction with the rest of the world. Answering the fundamental question who are we?
She said “being African is applied science of humanity.” There was also an uplifting musical performance by Cameroonian artiste, Joyce Babatunde.
The Babacar Ndiaye Lecture series, launched by Afreximbank five years ago, honours the founding role Dr Babacar Ndiaye played in the establishment of Afreximbank. As President of the African Development Bank from May 1985 to August 1995, he is credited with championing the establishment of several major continental institutions to drive the process of economic growth and structural transformation of African economies.
‘Africa Must Close Science & Tech Gap to Take Advantage of AfCFTA’
FG Commends Insurance Industry over N9bn Endsars’ Claims Payment
Zainab Ahmed
Hon. Minister of Finance, Budget & National Planning
SPEECH BY THE SPECIAL GUEST OF HONOUR, HONOURABLE MINISTER OF FINANCE, BUDGET AND NATIONAL PLANNING MRS (DR) ZAINAB SHAMSUNA AHMED AT THE INVESTITURE OF BARR. OLUWAROTIMI EDU, mni AS THE 21ST PRESIDENT/CHAIRMAN OF THE GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE NIGERIAN COUNCIL OF REGISTERED INSURANCE BROKERS (NCRIB) HELD AT LAGOS MARRIOT HOTEL, IKEJA – LAGOS ON THURSDAY 21ST OCTOBER, 2021
Protocol
I am pleased to be here today for the investiture of Barr. Rotimi Edu, mni as the 21st President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB). The incoming President I have been told is a seasoned administrator, well-baked and versatile insurance practitioner with decades of experience which I believe he will bring to bear in the discharge of his responsibilities as President and Chairman of the Council.
Let me first congratulate the out-going President of the NCRIB, Dr. (Mrs) Bola Onigbogi for an excellent performance of the Insurance Broking fraternity during her tenure notwithstanding the challenges brought about by the emergence of COVID-19.
Your effort no doubt assisted in mobilising the insurance industry’s support to the Federal Government in its fight against the Covid 19 pandemic. The Federal Government is grateful to the Nigeria insurance industry.
I must also say that your tenure is a remarkable one that has given the industry some level of stability and successes. The insurance industry’s swift response to the settlement of claims that arose from the Endsars crisis which I am told is over N9 billion cannot go without mention on occasion like this. The insurance industry has done well but can do more.
I want to congratulate you Madam on your achievements and I believe this is just a stepping stone to what the industry should expect from your successor. We express our gratitude for your selfless service and wish you well in all your future endeavours.
Now to the man of the moment Barrister Rotimi Edu, congratulations to you on your election as the 21st President and Chairman in Council of the NCRIB. In your new leadership position, it will be expected that you and your council and indeed the entire insurance broking family will key into the various initiatives of the Federal government especially those relating to poverty alleviation.
The Insurance sector in its more than 60 years history has never before this time enjoyed the closeness, romance and positive relationship with the Federal Government as we have presently under the administration of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.
While insurance industry is celebrating these recent developments of support by the Federal Government, it will be a good opportunity for the insurance sector to impress in the heart of the general public and businesses the value of insurance as a financial instrument for protection and sustainability.
The leadership of all arms of the insurance sector must see this opportunity as a challenge to boost the image of the sector and move positively closer with a view to increase its visibility through efficient service delivery.
The harmonious working relationship between the NCRIB and other stakeholders is commendable and we expect that this is sustained and improved upon. The issue of professionalism and business ethics must be taken seriously among members of the insurance broking fraternity and indeed the entire insurance industry.
This will in turn improve the fragile image and perception of the sector by the populace. The incoming President and Chairman in Council of the NCRIB, Mr Rotimi Edu, your deep knowledge about the industry, versatility and pedigree and recently a graduate of National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) which earned you Membership of the Institute (mni) certificate gives me the confidence that the Council under your leadership will be a formidable partner to your Regulator the National Insurance Commission and the government in the implementation of its various policies and initiatives.
The Federal Government is not unaware of the challenges confronting businesses including the insurance sector and it is doing so much through various initiatives and policy rearrangements to ensure stability in the system.
The world has moved many places ahead of Africa in so many fronts in insurance practice and governance. The insurance sector is a knowledge-based industry which must take issue of training of its members seriously in order to update itself with current realities across the globe.
By training and retraining we can adequately equip practitioners with modern techniques and practice from the traditional ways of doing business to more robust, all-inclusive and diversified channels of reaching our huge potential clients.
I want to use medium to encourage members of the NCRIB to be open to initiatives including the adoption of relevant technologies aimed at making the insurance market robust and all-inclusive especially at a time that the Commission’s cardinal objective is centered on deepening penetration and developing the market. It is worthy to say that extreme times like this require extreme measures to reach out to the nooks and crannies of the country.
Partnerships and collaborations must be sustained with other stakeholders we perceive as progress partners in consumption, supply or distribution of insurance products in the country. The market is indeed in a dare need of serious partnership, collaboration and synergy if truly the industry wants to make the required impact.
The efforts been made so far by the Commission require the industry players to actively get involved. My observation has revealed that there is huge market for insurance in every State of the Federation but lack of or inadequate presence of insurers and intermediaries may have hindered uptake of insurance in those places.
I want to challenge the intermediaries that there is huge untapped market in the retail business and I urge your members to learn new ways to reach out and explore this area of huge potential for inclusiveness.
In conclusion, I want to assure you of the commitment and support of the administration of His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR to the development of the insurance industry and make it a veritable instrument for national growth and development. The contribution of the insurance sector to the nations GDP must become significant for recognition.
Once again, I wish the outgoing President well in her future endeavors and pray that God Almighty gives the incoming President the strength and wisdom to pilot the affairs of the Council.
Long live the Nigerian insurance industry, Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Digital Encode Drums Support for eBusinesslife 5G Forum on Nov 5
Leading Consulting and technology integration firm, Digital Encode Limited has partnered with eBusiness Life Communication Limited and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to organise a one-day forum on the Fifth Generation (5G) deployment in Nigeria, which coincides with the 20th year of GSM operation in the country.
The event which will hold on November 5, 2021 at the Oriental Hotel, Lekki Road, Victoria Island Lagos, will look at the prospects of the Fifth Generation (5G) technology in Nigeria, while also proffering solutions to anticipated challenges in deployment, implementation and use of the technology.
According to the Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Digital Encode Limited, Dr. Obadare Peter Adewale, as the country starts the deployment of 5G technology, there is a need to preview all aspects and foreseeable challenges that may arise, and formulate ways of tackling them in order to create a seamless technology that will drive solutions eventually.
He emphasised on the need to ensure that security patches are in place for 5G deployment because of the massive and revolutionary services the technology will bring.
Digital Encode specialises in the design, management and security of business-critical networks, telecommunications environments and other Information Technology (IT) infrastructures. The company, which specialises in Information security, Risk Management, Governance, Cybersecurity, Compliance and Computer Forensics,
The multi-award-winning firm is in partnership with government agencies and other organisation on data and cybersecurity deployment, and has received both local and international recognition for its services.
Speaking in the light of the nation’s preparedness for 5G deployment, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the nation’s telecommunication regulatory body, the NCC, Prof Umar Garba Danbatta noted:
“Already, we are set for the auction some spectrum slots in 3.5GHz band. The other day I was at the National assembly, I informed the senate that we were 95% ready for 5G. Today as we speak, I am delighted to tell you that we are already at 97% completion.”
It is expected that the deployment of the 5G technology will spur services that will stimulate growth in different sectors of the Nigeria’s economy, including the health, education, financial and commerce sectors.
Speaking on the event, Publisher and CEO of eBusiness Life, Mrs Ufuoma Emuophedaro disclosed that panel a discussion will look at the infrastructure readiness of the service providers and expectations from the regulator and other public sector stakeholders.
“We need to also know how ready the entrepreneurs and tech start-ups are? How ready other sector operators are to latch unto revolutionary 5G technology? Are there policies in place that will ensure that the consumers are well protected in terms or charges and service provisions? Are there collaborative opportunities? What do we expect and how do we tackle the expected rise in cyber insecurity that the technology will attract?”
With the theme, “GSM @ 20, Setting The Stage For The 5G Journey – Requirements, Deployment and Challenges”, the event will afford stakeholders the opportunity to discuss the level of preparedness of ICT stakeholders to embrace the challenge of being pivotal to the stability and growth of all other sectors through 5G deployment.
The event, which is expected to have the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Pantami; EVC/CEO of the Nigerian Communication Commission, (NCC) Prof. Umar Danbatta; as well as Captains of industry in attendance, will bring together Mobile Network Operators, telecom service providers, infrastructure companies, cybersecurity companies, among others to discuss the past, the present and the future of digital communication in Nigeria.
Delphine Traoré Named CEO of Allianz Africa, Retains COO Spot
Delphine Traoré, Member of the Board of Management of Allianz Africa and Regional Chief Operations Officer (COO), will succeed Coenraad Vrolijk and assume the role of Allianz Africa Regional Chief Executive Officer (CEO), in addition to her current responsibilities. Coenraad will leave Allianz Africa to pursue new opportunities outside of the Allianz group.
These changes will become effective November 1, 2021.
Delphine joined Allianz Group in 2005 with Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) Canada. She held the positions of a Liability Underwriter and Head of Market Management before she became CEO of AGCS Africa in 2012. Delphine joined Allianz Africa as COO in 2017 and remained a non-executive member of the Board of Management of AGCS Africa.
In 2015, Coenraad joined as a Senior Advisor to the Board of Management of Allianz SE and became Allianz Africa Regional CEO in 2017. During his tenure, he oversaw the expansion of Allianz footprint in Morocco, Nigeria and recently East Africa, in addition to successfully building a strong regional framework.
Chris Townsend, Board Member of Allianz SE says: “We thank Coenraad for his contribution and dedication during his time with Allianz and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. We look forward to working with Delphine in this capacity and wish her every success in her new responsibilities.”
NCC to Subscribers: Don’t Link Your NIN to Another Person’s SIM
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has strongly warned telecoms
consumers to ensure they do not allow their National Identification Number (NIN) to be
linked to another person’s Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards, no matter how close
the person is to them.
The Commission gave the warning during its third run Telecom Consumer Town Hall on
Radio (TCTHR) programme, broadcast live on Human Rights Radio, 101.1 FM in Abuja
recently. The event was hosted on the platform of ‘NCC Digital Signature on Radio’.
The NCC Digital Signature on Radio is the flagship radio programme of the Commission
created to educate the general public on the mandates of the Commission and for
sharing salient, consumer-centric and up-to-date information on how NCC is delivering
on its mandates.
Speaking during the radio programme focused on ‘the Benefits of NIN-SIM Integration’,
NCC’s Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau, Efosa Idehen, said “On no account should a
telecom consumer, however circumstanced, allow another person to register a SIM with
another person’s NIN.”
Idehen said compliance with this advice will protect the true owner of the NIN from any
liabilities or negative consequences arising from the use of other person's SIM.
“If the person, whose SIM is linked to your line use his own SIM to commit crimes or any
form of atrocities, it is easy to be traced to you and then, you will be dealt with because
the SIM is linked to your NIN”, he said.
During the phone-in segment of the radio programme, which lasted two hours,
consumers within Nigeria and in the diaspora, especially from the United Kingdom (UK),
Russia and neighbouring countries like Ghana, among others, were able to call and get
clarifications on concerns they had regarding the ongoing NIN-SIM integration in
Nigeria.
Discussions largely focused on educating consumers on NIN and its purpose, process
of obtaining NIN, why consumers are being asked to submit their NIN to their Mobile
Network Service Providers, the benefits of NIN-SIM linkage, relationship between NIN
and Bank Verification Number (BVN) registration, the step-by-step approach to linking
NIN to SIM, and the role and uses of Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD)
*346# in the NIN-SIM integration activities.
Efosa was joined in the studio by NCC's Director, Public Affairs, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde,
who was represented by an Assistant Director in the department, Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan;
and a Deputy Director, Projects Department of NCC, Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, who jointly
educated consumers on the various aspects of NIN-SIM integration exercise.
Other panelists include NCC’s Head, Consumer Information and Education, Mistura
Aruna; Head, Corporate Communication, National Identity Management Commission
(NIMC), Kayode Adegoke, as well as representatives of mobile operators, including
MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9Mobile.
During the radio programme, telecoms consumers were reminded repeatedly of the
October 31, 2021 deadline for NIN-SIM integration. The Federal Government had
extended the deadline earlier giving for the completion of the NIN-SIM linkage to 31st
October 2021.
The two-hour discussion programme, which was also livestreamed on the social media,
recorded broader participation than its forerunners due to a combination of the regular
radio listenership with viewership on Human Rights Radio’s social media assets.
Thus, it achieved NCC’s objective of using a mass medium to expand its reach to telecom
consumers to enhance their protection through information sharing, and education in
order to improve the quality of consumer experience with telecom services in Nigeria.
Allianz Ranked World’s ‘Best Insurance Brand’ as Value Climbs to $15bn
Allianz continues to be the world’s most valuable insurance brand, according to the 2021 Best Global Brands ranking, released by leading consultancy Interbrand.
Within the top 100 global brands, Allianz has climbed five ranks since 2020 to #34. Allianz’s brand value has risen by $2.2 billion in one year to $15.2 billion, an increase of 17 percent. This increase is the strongest since Allianz entered the 100 Best Global Brands ranking in 2007 with a brand value of $4.0 billion.
According to Interbrand, Allianz’s rise in the ranking is based on its strong operating performance and outlook, increased branded revenue, and brand strength. Moreover, the influence of the Allianz brand on customers’ purchase decisions has increased over the last year.
“Congratulations to all! The Allianz brand demonstrates strong resilience and delivery of value for people, companies and the broader market. We have been working hard to apply our guiding principles ‘Shape, Care, Deliver’ to the brand and customer experience,” said Serge Raffard, Group Strategy, Marketing, Distribution Officer at Allianz SE.
To further build on its brand strength, Allianz has enhanced its global coherence, affinity, and distinctiveness. The “OneAllianz” approach was applied to unify Allianz’s brand presence into one logo, one message and one campaign.
Moreover, Allianz has improved customer experiences globally by listening closely to its customers via numerous programs and addressing their unmet needs.
Allianz’s eight-year worldwide partnership with the Olympic and Paralympic Movements has also been instrumental in underlining Allianz’s role as a global insurer supporting the sports ecosystem. Since the launch of the partnership in January 2021, the likeability of the Allianz brand has increased significantly among people aware of the tie-up.
“I’m extremely proud of this year’s amazing result. A big thanks to Allianz employees, our agents and brokers. They are truly living our purpose – ‘We secure your future’ – and are tirelessly working to improve Allianz customer journeys and to find simple solutions to give our customers more confidence in their daily lives and in their future,” said Dr. Christian Deuringer, Head of Global Brand & Marketing at Allianz SE.
Allianz has been operating since 1912 and provides personal and business insurance through Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS), Euler Hermes, Allianz Travel, and Allianz Africa in multiple countries.
Interbrand pioneered the brand valuation concept in 1988. It was the first company to have its methodology certified as ISO 10668 (requirements for monetary brand valuation) compliant and it played a key role in the development of the standard itself.
Since 2000, the Best Global Brands ranking and report has been published annually and is one of the most recognised rankings in brand management.
INEC Publishes Notice of Anambra State Governorship Election Nov 6
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) held its regular weekly meeting today Thursday 21st October 2021 and deliberated on the Anambra State Governorship Election holding on Saturday 6th November 2021.
So far, the Commission has successfully implemented 12 out of 14 activities in the Timetable and Schedule of Activities. The Commission has today published the Notice of Poll at its State and all the Local Government offices in Anambra State.
By Section 46 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), the Commission shall, not later than 14 days before the day of the election, cause to be published, a notice specifying the date and hours fixed for the poll; the persons entitled to vote; and the location of the polling units.
In the same vein, today is the last day for the submission of names of Polling Agents by political parties. By Section 45 of the Electoral Act, each political party may by notice in writing addressed to the Electoral Officer of the Local Government, appoint a polling agent for each polling unit and collation centre.
The notice shall set out the name and address of the polling agent, accompanied by two passport photographs of each polling agent, and sample signature of the agent at least 14 days before the date fixed for the election.
Political parties are strongly advised to adhere strictly to the law and the guidelines for the deployment of polling agents. Only duly accredited polling agents will be allowed to operate at the polling units and collation centres.
The Commission is satisfied with the current level of preparations. Virtually all non-sensitive materials have been delivered in readiness for the election. The training of ad-hoc staff is also going on as scheduled. The Commission is in touch with the National Peace Committtee under the Chairmanship of former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd) GCFR. Preparations are underway for the signing of the Peace Accord in Awka on Thursday 4th November 2021.
The Commission has also noted with appreciation, the role of religious, traditional and community leaders in Anambra State as well as civil society, socio-cultural associations and the media in appealing for peace during electioneering campaign and Election Day activities.
With just a little over two weeks to the election, the Commission once again appeals for support from all and sundry in Anambra to ensure that the election will not only be peaceful but also free, fair and credible.
Festus Okoye Esq
National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee.
Rotimi Edu Becomes 21st President of NCRIB
Barrister Oluwarotimi Edu is expected to become the 21st president of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB).
His investiture, which will take place in Lagos will be attended by relevant stakeholders from the financial and insurance sectors of the economy as well as players in government and private sector.
The president-elect, before now, was the deputy president of the council and he worked assiduously with the out-going president. Dr. Bola Onigbogi, to deepen insurance awareness through improved education and sensitisation exercise across the nooks and crannies of the country, including, at the states and federal levels.
Born over six decades ago in Lagos, Barrister Oluwarotimi Edu is a Lagosian, born into the families of Late Alhaji Salaudeen Edu.
He began his early education at the Surulere Baptist Primary School in Lagos, before he later proceeded to the Lagos Clerical Training College which was a famous school for the training of would-be white- collar jobbers at the time.
Oluwarotimi later switched to Premier College, Yaba, for his West Africa School Certificate, which he bagged with flying colours.
The quest for higher scholarship propped the young Oluwarotimi to secure admission with the famous Lagos State Polytechnic, Isolo, Lagos for his National Diploma and Higher National Diploma Certificates in Insurance.
He secured his first job with Security Insurance Company under the tutelage of Late Mr. Idowu Silva of blessed memories where he horned his skills in Insurance Marketing.
Though he had a flourishing career in the Insurance Industry, starting his career at the defunct Mulumba Assurance Company Limited where he was employed as a Senior Manager, Oluwarotimi briefly left for banking and later returned to the famous Industrial General Insurance Limited where he exited as Deputy Director (Marketing).
He later became the acting Managing Director of International Health Management Services before he ventured into establishing his own Brokerage firm, Quicklink Insurance Brokers Ltd, which has remained one of the leading Insurance Brokerage firms in Nigeria today.
His foray into NCRIB was when he was appointed as the Auditor of the council under its first female President, Barrister (Mrs.) Laide Osijo.
From that point, there had been no turning back for Oluwarotimi Edu as he rose meteorically on the council’s leadership ladder through his valued and qualitative contributions to become Hon Treasurer, Vice-President, Deputy President and today ascending the number One position as 21st President.
Conforming to the belief of Sir Ian Mc Gregor that “No one dies from hard work but a lot of people die when they refrain from it”, Oluwarotimi Edu’s insatiable appetite for learning even when it was most inconvenient prodded him to enroll
His thirst for knowledge made him apply for a degree in Accounting; crossing in his 2nd year to Law at the University of Lagos where he bagged his Bachelors of Laws degree, and was called into the Nigerian Bar after completing his Law School.
He still went back to study for his Master’s Degree in Law specialising in Secured Credit, Family Law and he later became a Notary Public of the Federal Republic of Nigeria thereafter. These battery of certificates and knowledge he has brought to bear on his profession and the NCRIB in several capacities.
A Chartered Insurance practitioner from the Chartered Insurance Institute London, Barr Oluwarotimi Edu is a proud product of the famous National Institute of Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos. He was a one-time speaker at NIPSS (SEC 41) and a strong advocate of agricultural insurance development in Nigeria.
As one of the Past Presidents of the famous Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Barrister Oluwarotimi Edu left impressionable footprints on the Club. Aside from enhancing its financial vibrancy, Barr Edu is remembered for re-energising the Club through aggressive membership drive and drawing more attention of the powers that be to the Club, making it a primus interpares amongst its peers nationally.
Similarly, he is a Chartered member of the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (CIArB); Current Chairman of the Insurance Brokers Forum of the West African Insurance Companies Association (WAICA); Member of the 9th Governing Council of Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH); Past President of the Lagos State Polytechnic Alumni Association); Member, Institute of Directors (MIoD); Principal Partner of Rotimi Edu & Co. a firm of Estate Managers, among others.
INEC Seeks More Powers on Use of Tech for Elections
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu (left) and some Senators at the event
GOODWILL REMARKS BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE INDEPENDENT NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION (INEC), PROFESSOR MAHMOOD YAKUBU, AT THE MEETING OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONFERENCE COMMITTEE ON THE ELECTORAL ACT AMENDMENT BILL 2021 AT TRANSCORP HILTON HOTEL, ABUJA, ON THURSDAY 21ST OCTOBER 2021
• On behalf of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), I would like to extend our appreciation for the invitation to deliver Goodwill Remarks at this very important harmonisation meeting. For almost two years, the Commission has interacted with the Senate Committee on INEC and the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters, including a retreat in Lagos, to consider our extensive proposals to amend the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended). The Commission was invited to join the technical committee that reviewed the draft Bill before the clause-by-clause consideration by the National Assembly. Clearly, we are now at the last stage before the passage of the Bill by the National Assembly and submission to the Executive for assent.
• The Electoral Act is one of the most important laws in any democracy. Election is a process anchored on a legal framework. First is the Constitution, followed by the Electoral Act. In all jurisdictions, the Electoral Act provides more detailed provisions to govern the conduct of elections and the electoral process. One of the unique aspects of the current amendment of the Electoral Act is that it started well ahead of the forthcoming General Election, unlike previous exercises which came too close to elections. The importance of starting early is that it allows for a thorough debate by citizens on aspects of the Bill long after the conventional public hearing as witnessed recently. Clearly, the Electoral Amendment Bill 2021 is one of the most extensively debated Bills in Nigeria.
• Understandably, the issue of technology in elections has dominated recent public discussions in Nigeria. The Commission appreciates the decision of the National Assembly to empower INEC to determine and deploy appropriate technology in future elections. For us in INEC, this is one of the progressive decisions by our National Assembly. As you finalise on the Electoral Amendment Bill, I urge you to continue to endow the Commission with power to determine what technology to deploy in our elections at the appropriate time. One way of doing so is to make broad provisions of the law that will empower the Commission to continue to innovate without restricting us to a specific technology such as the Smart Card Reader which could in due course become obsolete, inapplicable or irrelevant as is already the case following the recent introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) by the Commission.
• The Commission looks forward to the conclusion of the process without which we cannot make the Regulations and Guidelines to give effect to the provisions of the law. Without the Regulations and Guidelines, we cannot finalise on the manuals for the training of officials that will conduct elections. There are extensive provisions in the current Bill that require clear guidance by the Commission. With only 484 days to the 2023 General Election, time is of the essence. In addition to the Anambra State Governorship election holding on 6th November 2021, the Commission has already scheduled three major elections to be conducted next year. First is the Area Council election in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) holding on 12th February 2022, followed by the Ekiti Governorship election on 18th June 2022 and the Osun Governorship election a month later on 16th July 2022. The Commission also has five pending bye-elections made up of three Federal Constituencies and two State Constituencies to contend with.
• I want to assure you that in a proactive manner, the Commission has been studying aspects of the amendment Bill and identifying areas that require the formulation of regulations and guidelines as well as the review of prescribed forms for implementation. This will enable the Commission to test-run procedures and pilot innovations ahead of the 2023 General Election. The speedy passage of the Bill will be in the best interest of our electoral process.
• INEC will continue to work closely with the National Assembly and I thank you for the opportunity to speak to you on this occasion. God bless.
NDIC Targets Risk-Based Premium by Banks in Deposit Insurance
KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY THE MANAGING DIRECTOR/CHIEF EXECUTIVE, NIGERIA DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION (NDIC), MR. BELLO HASSAN AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 18TH EDITION OF THE WORKSHOP FOR BUSINESS EDITORS AND FINANCE CORRESPONDENTS’ ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (FICAN) ON WEDNESDAY 20TH OCTOBER, 2021 HELD AT PREMIER HOTEL, IBADAN
Protocols
It is my great pleasure to welcome all the distinguished participants to the 18th edition of the NDIC Workshop, for Business Editors and members of the Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN).
I am extremely thrilled that this will be my maiden meeting with the group, along with the opportunity to address all the esteemed members of the organization since my assumption of duty, as the new Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC).
I recall that on Wednesday 30th June 2021, I had the singular honour and privilege, of hosting the joint executives of the Lagos and Abuja Chapters of FICAN, who paid a courtesy visit to the Management of the Corporation. We recall also that FICAN leadership in its wisdom, conferred an Award of Special Recognition on the NDIC, for its supports and efforts to sustain the growth of Financial Journalism in Nigeria, during the 30th Anniversary Conference held in Lagos on the 25th of September, 2021.
These are indications of the harmonious working relationship that exists between the Corporation and the body of Business Editors and Finance Correspondents since the establishment of the Corporation.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, let me reiterate at this juncture, that this workshop, has always been an important part of our capacity building initiative for the media, towards ensuring their better understanding of the Corporation’s role in ensuring financial system stability.
It is also aimed at strengthening and broadening their ability to interrogate and interpret current developments in the financial services sector in general. I am extremely delighted that in the Nineteen (19) years of this laudable engagement, the objectives of the workshop are continuously being met, judging by the knowledge imparted on participants, as demonstrated by the high quality of reportage that we read in the media on a daily basis.
The choice of the theme of this year’s workshop: “Enduring Extreme Disruptions: Resilience & Reinvention for Banking System Stability & Deposit Insurance” was apt.
As economies across the globe continue to grapple with the devastating impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic, it has become expedient and highly desirable, for supervisors to come up with appropriate strategies that are required to build resilience into our financial system as we seek to provide the much-needed support to the Federal Government’s economic recovery agenda.
The workshop theme, as well as the papers to be deliberated upon along with the quality of the resource persons, were carefully selected to achieve the same objective.
Distinguished participants, permit me to reiterate the determination of the current management of the NDIC, to work harmoniously with all stakeholders, to enhance the capacity of the Corporation in the discharge of its statutory obligations towards the fulfilment of the public policy objectives for which it was established.
Our key focus is therefore to scale up the deposit insurance framework; provide timely support to insured institutions as and when required; ensure faster and orderly resolutions of liquidated insured institutions; as well as continue to assist the Central Bank in promoting the stability of the banking system
In the area of Deposit Insurance, as a key mandate of the Corporation, we have evolved a strategy which accentuates our existing framework. The initiative, strives to ensure that the insurance cover is adequate to support this objective within the banking sector.
In addition, considering the importance of the optimum Funding Ratio in deposit insurance, we are developing an effective methodology for determining a realistic Target Funding Ratio for the Corporation.
Additionally, we have commenced the review of our approach to the determination of premium by banks to make it more risk-based, such that, the probability of the risk crystallizing, becomes a major factor in the pricing methodology of our premium going forward.
Furthermore, there have been recent calls on the Corporation to enhance the provision of support, to insured institutions that are facing financial difficulties.
To this end, we have identified the need to reconsider our framework, to provide realistic terms and conditions that will enable qualifying insured financial institution promptly access technical and or financial support, in line with S.(2)(1)(b) of the NDIC Act, whilst also protecting the Corporation from possible downside risks.
We are equally collaborating with relevant stakeholders, to ensure that the Corporation discharges its responsibilities efficiently without hindrances, following revocation of licenses of any insured institution by the CBN.
This has become more important to us, giving the need to improve on our processes in resolving liquidated financial institutions. Some of the obstacles bedevilling the efficient and timely resolutions of liquidated institutions, such as slow recovery and realization of assets, as well as litigation by erstwhile shareholders and creditors of closed banks can only be addressed through effective collaboration.
In all these collaborative efforts, the media, the civil society groups, along with the insured financial institutions that are represented at this workshop, will remain the most strategic and critical stakeholders that we cherish the most.
Through the better understanding of our programmes and policies, it is hoped that you will not only be better informed in the coverage of our activities, but also be well-equipped to contribute to our advocacy and mobilisation for a resilient financial system.
I therefore call on you, to continue to support the Corporation in its resolve to fully deliver on its core mandates. On our part, we promise to keep our doors open to your suggestions and observations, while partnering with you on capacity building and other areas of mutual benefit.
Finally, Ladies and Gentlemen, I profoundly thank you all for honoring our invitation while wishing fruitful deliberations and warm stay in the ancient city of Ibadan. Thank you for your attention and God bless.
Bello Hassan, FCA
Managing Director/Chief Executive
Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation
Wednesday 20th October, 2021
CBN, UBA, Glo, NNPC Boost Editor’s Conference on Security
All is now set for the 17th All Nigeria Editors’ Conference, starting on Thursday, with Publisher of Premium Times, Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi; Editors-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP Newspaper, Azu Ishiekwene; Minister of Works, Mr. Babatunde Fashola; Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Malam Mele Kyari; Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor, and other security chiefs, scheduled to lead discussions at the conference.
Some state governors with security challenges, including Dr Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta); Malam Nasiru El-Rufai (Kaduna); Alhaji Yaya Bello (Kogi); Seyi Mankide (Oyo); Alhaji Bello Matawalle (Zamfara); Prof Babagana Umara Zulum (Borno), and Chief David Nweze Umahi (Ebonyi) have also been scheduled to be part of the conversation.
Other state governors expected at the event include, Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN (Ondo); Adegboyega Oyetola and others.
The conference with the theme, ‘’Media in Times of Crises: Resolving Conflict, Achieving Consensus’’, will bring together editors and media owners across the country as well as their foreign colleagues to discuss the security challenges in the country and agree on the solution to the raging strife.
The conference, which is being supported by corporate organisations, including Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), United Bank for Africa (UBA), Glo, Zenith Bank, Access Bank, Air Peace and Trustfund Pensions Limited, will take place at the Nigerian Airforce Conference Centre, Kado area of Abuja.
Other promoters are Nigeria Deposit Insurance Company (NDIC), Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Yobe State government.
Olorunyomi, an accomplished internationally acclaimed investigative journalist and journalism teacher, would give the keynote address that would be discussed by security chiefs, including Monguno; Irabor; Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Yusuf Bichi; and the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Usman Baba.
In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja by the President, Mustapha Isah and the General Secretary, Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), said Kyari would be the Special Guest of Honour, while the President, Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN), Malam Kabiru Yusuf, would be the Guest of Honour.
‘’A doyen of the media, Mr. Ray Ekpu, would chair the opening session with Fashola and others, including President, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr. Chris Isiguzo, and foreign ambassadors giving goodwill messages.
‘’Besides the opening session, the conference would have three others; the second session for the Day 1 of the conference has a paper titled, ‘’Conflict Reporting: The Editor as a Mediator’’, to be delivered by the Editor-in-Chief, Leadership Newspapers, Mr. Azu Ishiekwene.
‘’The paper would be discussed by Editor-in-Chief, 21st Century Chronicle, Dr. Mahmud Jega; Director-General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Mr. Mansur Liman; and another leading journalist, Mr. Emmanuel Yawe. Noted broadcaster, Ms. Kadaria Ahmed, would chair the session’’, the statement added.
The statement said that the morning session of the Day 2, Friday, October 22, would have Managing Director, Nigerian Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agriculture Lending (NIRSAL), Mr. Aliyu Abdulhameed, presenting a paper, ‘’Accessing Capital for Alternative Career Development for Editors.’’
Discussants at the session to be chaired by the Managing Director/CEO, Access Bank Plc, Mr. Herbert Wigwe, are former NGE President, Mrs. Funke Egbemode; Managing Director of New Telegraph Newspapers, Mr. Ayodele Aminu; and Executive Director (News), FRCN, Mr. Sani Sulieman.
The afternoon session with the theme, ‘’Security Challenges: Recovering Lost Grounds’’, which the statement explained, would be attended by state governors, will be chaired by the Minister of Defence, Maj-Gen. Bashir Magashi.
“The conference is to be rounded off in the evening with the induction of new fellows and members of the Guild,” the statement said.
Over 300 editors and media owners – from print, broadcast stations and online newspapers have registered for this year conference.
Fidelity Bank Wins Citigroup Excellence Award for Superior Payment Efficiency
Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe
Managing Director/CEO
Fidelity Bank Plc
In recognition of its excellent operational efficiency in foreign currency payments, leading financial institution -Fidelity Bank Plc -has been presented the Straight-Through Processing (STP) Excellence Award by Citigroup.
Every year, Citigroup, a leading global bank headquartered in New York and present in more than 160 countries, rewards a select number of banks and financial institutions that showcase the highest rates of efficiency in terms of foreign currency payments.
Essentially, STP refers to transactions processed diligently and without human intervention – which results in a more cost-effective and timely process. Fidelity Bank, which has consistently won the award for several years, successfully achieved an STP rate of 99% for 2020.
An elated Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, in a chat with journalists attributed the award to the confidence reposed in the bank by its customers and the team’s hardwork.
“This award is yet another affirmation of the significant investments we are making in our Innovation Drive, Performance Discipline, Digital Transformation, Service Excellence and Workforce Transformation as we gun for tier one status as bank by 2025. It is no secret that we go the extra-mile not only to satisfy but to delight our customers and this award clearly shows that. I am grateful to our customers for keeping faith in us and our staff for stepping to the plate to delight them at every opportunity,” said Mrs. Onyeali-Ikpe.
Commenting on the awards, Global Head of Correspondent Banking & Financial Institutions, Bharat Sarpeshkar; and Head of Global Clearing & FI Payments, Mark McNulty both of Citigroup said: “At Citi we aim to deliver stellar service through operational excellence for all our clients. The annual Performance Excellence Award is a prestigious designation presented to the leading financial institutions worldwide which have achieved high rates of STP.”
Established in 1988, Fidelity Bank is a full-fledged commercial bank, with over 5 million customers who are serviced across its 250 business offices in Nigeria and various digital banking channels.
The bank is focused on a servicing a diverse customer base and is rapidly implementing a digital based retail banking strategy which has resulted in exponential growth in savings deposits over the last three (3) years, with 40 percent customer enrollment on the Bank’s flagship mobile/internet banking products.
NPHCDA: Population Immunity Behind Vaccine Mandate for Civil Servants
By Tajudeen Kareem
Dr. Faisal Shuaib
Executive Director/CEO
National Primary Health Care Development Agency
The quest for population immunity is the underlying reason for the vaccine mandate Nigeria rolled out on October 13, 2021 for federal civil servants to increase the number of persons immunised against Covid-19.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman, Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha announced the requirement for federal employees to vaccinate or ensure they bring negative vaccine tests from three-days-prior validity. It seemed like a tall order pointing in only one direction. The regulation would take effect from 1 December 2021, more than six weeks from now.
Mustapha’s words stated: “With effect from 1st December 2021, Federal Government employees shall be required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result done within 72 hours, to gain access to their offices, in all locations within Nigeria and our Missions. An appropriate service wide advisory/circular will be issued to guide the process.”
Officials explained that the vaccine mandate for civil servants is necessary owing to the nature of their job that requires constant interface with citizens from various walks of life. They are thus a priority for control efforts.
Dr. Faisal Shuaib, Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the agency in-charge of vaccination, stated at a press briefing that the measure is not punitive but seeks the protection of the larger populace. Nigeria is following global best practice, aspiring to acquire herd immunity when 70 per cent of the population is vaccinated.
Shuaib gave a clarification: In making a pronouncement that by 1st December, all federal government employees would have to show proof of vaccination or negative PCR test. We are clearly aware that we have to put in place all of the machinery, all of the processes and allow federal government employees access to get these vaccinations in locations that are nearest to them.
“You should also be mindful of the fact that a lot of these federal government employees have already gotten the vaccine anyway, but of course this is a small fraction, a minority of these employees that are not taking the vaccine, continue to pose a risk to other colleagues. These are the people that we need to be sure are negative before they have access to the institution. So, we have to emphasize the fact that there is an option for people to take.
“It is not that people are being forced to take the vaccine. You have the option of not taking the vaccine but actually showing negative PCR test so that you cannot be among the people that are infecting others.”
Mustapha added an advisory and caution as citizens prepare for large religious observances by both Muslims and Christians.
“The PSC wishes to put Nigerians on notice that two major religious festivities (Salah and Christmas) are approaching, and we shall be experiencing increased passenger traffic in and out of the country. Similarly, events of large gatherings are likely to hold. While the PSC prepares to escalate surveillance and other control activities, we urge the States and all Nigerians to also increase their vigilance and take measure to moderate activities”, Mustapha cautioned.
Nigeria had by 13 October 2021 vaccinated four million citizens. Two million six hundred thousand (2,645,020) persons have received the first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine and 1,407,736 eligible persons got the first dose of Moderna vaccine.
Shuaib stated: “To end this pandemic, we must achieve enough level of population immunity when the virus essentially becomes a nuisance and no longer a threat. The only way to achieve this is if eligible persons come out for vaccination and observe the non-pharmaceutical interventions. The COVID-19 vaccines remain the most effective tool against this virus.”
He noted that vaccine mandates have become a global practice. “With the increasing number of cases of COVID-19 globally, we are beginning to see countries instituting vaccine mandates. Some countries have begun asking workers to either present a proof of vaccination or provide weekly COVID-19 PCR negative results to be allowed into public offices”, he stated.
The NPHCDA boss points to science and empirical data in support of the measure. “A recent study by the United States Centre for Disease Control which examined 600,000 COVID-19 cases, revealed that people who were unvaccinated were about four and a half times more likely to contract COVID-19. It further showed that those who are not vaccinated against COVID-19 were eleven times more likely to die of the disease and ten times more likely to be hospitalized with the disease. We should also be mindful of the long-term effects of COVID-19 infection, which is characterized by blood clotting disorders, lung, and kidney problems”.
Federal health officials tread carefully in managing Covid-19. They are careful to dispel any doubts about the efficacy and necessity for vaccination against the backdrop that nature has spared Nigeria from a feared tsunami.
Shuaib emphasised the necessity for the vaccination. He also asked officials at all levels of the chain and citizens to be careful with the vaccines available. For one, do not mix the vaccines for the first and second doses. If you take AstraZeneca for the first dose, officials must ensure that the second dose is also AstraZeneca.
“Let me emphasise that all COVID-19 vaccines are safe and capable of protecting people against the disease. We do not promote preference of one vaccine brand over the other, and we strongly discourage mixing of vaccine brand for first and second doses”, said the NPHCDA boss.
The Federal Government urges states to take full control of the vaccine doses they receive and ensure compliance with regulations. Foremost is the fact that vaccination is free to all citizens. No state should charge for vaccination. States also need to ensure they do prevent situations where medical personnel circumvent procedures to sell vaccines or vaccine certificates.
Shuaib issued the Riot Act. “Any State found to be condoning acts of corruption will no longer be allocated vaccines. We have received reports of people trying to procure cards from health workers. These reports are being investigated and anyone found wanting would be prosecuted. It is important to emphasize that it is in the interest of public safety and collective well-being of Nigerians that the Federal Government has made available these vaccines free for all eligible persons”.
The NPHCDA boss also informed Nigerians that corporate vaccination had be instituted to make it easier for workers who are too busy at their workplace to receive the vaccination at their office premises.
He stated that the corporate vaccination for Ministries, Departments, Agencies, public and private corporate organisations will be provided free of charge.
States and Local Governments are also reminded that no fees/levies should be demanded from the corporate bodies when teams are sent to provide these services.
Great Nigeria Insurance: Commitment to Customer Service Translates to Financial Gain
Mrs. Cecilia O. Osipitan
The Managing Director/CEO
Great Nigeria Insurance Plc
The Managing Director/CEO of Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Plc, Mrs. Cecilia O. Osipitan, has said that the underwriting firm recorded significant improvement in its operations and financial performance as a result of its unflinching commitment towards exceptional service delivery.
In a statement, Oyinkansola Sobande, Head, Corporate Communications & Brand Management at GNI posited that the underwriting firm is on the trajectory of achieving and even surpassing its target for the financial year, adding that its focus on delighting its customers remains at the fore front of all its business activities and interventions.
According to her, there is no comprise to exceptional service delivery in Great Nigeria Insurance Plc because the major focus of the company is to ensure that our esteemed customers get to enjoy top notch service at every touch point of the brand.
Osipitan stated that despite the challenging business and economic environment that emerged from the slow pace of activities following the global lockdown occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic; the organisation is optimistic of actualising its enterprise goals.
In her words: “We remain committed to prudent growth of our business, responsible risk appetite, quality of our balance sheet and the overall wellbeing of our organization; our commitment to uphold our Vision and Mission has made the company one of the country’s most relevant and responsive insurance companies in the country.”
She further mentioned that, customer satisfaction remains the guiding strategy for business continuity; Great Nigeria Insurance Plc is poised to ensure the delivery of exceptional quality service to all its valued customers.
Whilst expressing optimism that the insurance industry and the broader economy will continue to recover and rebound from the negative impact of the global pandemic in the last quarter of 2021 all the way into 2022, Mrs. Osipitan assured all stakeholders of the company’s pledge to maintain professionalism and continue to ensure strict compliance with the rules and regulations guiding its business operations. Conclusively, she mentioned that the intention of the organisation is to uphold its corporate ethos and to continually strive to make good its promise at all times.
“Great Nigeria Insurance Plc is no doubt a formidable force to reckon with in the Nigerian Insurance landscape with a network of branch offices spread across the country buoyed by cutting-edge technology in delivering seamless and convenient insurance service to all teeming customers in the country and beyond.
Our over 60 years’ experience of insurance underwriting, risk management and financial advisory have enabled us to exclusively master the business terrain that give us an edge in service delivery and total customer delight.”