L-R: Mr Charles Moki, Communication and Public Relations Officer of AIO, Mrs Ebere Nwachukwu, Deputy Chairman of NIA, Mr Jean Baptiste, Secretary General of AIO, Mr Kunle Ahmed,Chairman of NIA, Mrs Bola Odukale, DG of NIA, during an official visit of AIO officials to the Nigerian insurers market in Lagos
By Taiye Olayemi
The African Insurers Organisation (AIO) is deepening collaboration with Nigeria’s insurance market while pledging greater value for insurance companies in its member countries.
AIO Secretary General, Mr Jean Baptiste, made this known during an official visit to Nigeria, accompanied by the AIO’s Communications and Public Relations Officer, Mr Charles Moki.
The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) hosted the AIO delegation in Lagos from May 5 to 7.
The visit began with a meeting between AIO team and the NIA Chairman, Mr Kunle Ahmed.
Earlier on Monday, NIA Director-General, Mrs Bola Odukale, led the delegation, followed by a meeting with CEOs of AIO member firms in Nigeria.
This followed with the team engaging with other industry arms on Tuesday. A closing dinner was hosted on Wednesday by NIA for key sector leaders and AIO officials.
Baptiste praised the Nigerian insurance market’s growth, stating that Nigerians have led the AIO for over 13 consecutive years.
He said, “This shows strong system support and a deep connection with the organisation.
“Nigeria consistently sends the largest delegation to AIO events. We’re here to listen and improve our service delivery.”
Baptiste expressed confidence in Nigeria’s insurance potential, highlighting the market’s resilience and progress in recent years.
He said with appropriate backing, Nigeria’s insurance sector could significantly shape Africa’s economic future.
He also highlighted the AIO’s progress in securing recognition from the AfCFTA Secretariat as the industry’s official voice.
AIO is conducting a regulatory harmonisation study across Africa with the UNDP, funded by Africa Reinsurance Corporation.
According to Baptiste, this initiative could allow insurers licensed in one country to operate across borders without new approvals.
He highlighted the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), developed by Afreximbank, as a key opportunity for insurers.
He encouraged stakeholders to attend the AIO General Assembly later this month, focused on Africa’s debt and insurance impact.
He said, “This theme is highly relevant to Nigeria. Insurers must be present where Africa’s financial future is debated.”
Speaking for Nigerian companies, NIA Chairman, Ahmed, welcomed the visit and the AIO’s plans to increase member benefits.
He pledged continued Nigerian support for the AIO’s goals and broader collaboration across the industry.
Ahmed urged AIO to assist Nigeria in developing a mortality table, actuarial talent, and fully exploring AfCFTA opportunities.
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