Former First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs Olufunso Amosun, joined top personalities from the insurance, banking and corporate sectors at the valedictory lecture and awards ceremony organised in honour of Abimbola Mercy Onakomaiya as she prepares to conclude her tenure as the 15th President of the Professional Insurance Ladies Association (PILA).
The colourful event, held at the Red Carpet Hall in Oniru, Lekki, Lagos on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, attracted industry leaders, captains of business, past presidents of PILA, senior insurance professionals and guests from different sectors of the economy.
Onakomaiya, who serves as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Peakthrust Insurance Brokers Limited, has led the respected professional body from 2024 to 2026, overseeing a period many members described as transformative and impactful.
The valedictory ceremony comes ahead of her official handover to incoming president, Dr Joyce Odiachi, scheduled for June 2026.
The gathering was marked by tributes, goodwill messages and reflections on Onakomaiya’s leadership journey, with speakers praising her contributions to the growth of PILA and the advancement of women in the insurance profession.
Mrs Olufunso Amosun, who was among distinguished guests at the event, commended the outgoing president for her commitment to professionalism, mentorship and capacity building within the insurance industry.
Participants at the event described the occasion as both celebratory and reflective, as stakeholders highlighted the role of women in deepening financial inclusion, strengthening insurance awareness and promoting ethical standards within the sector.
The valedictory lecture was delivered by the Chief Executive Officer of the Netherlands Business School, Professor Lere Baale, who spoke extensively on leadership, innovation and the evolving future of professional associations in a rapidly changing business environment.
Professor Baale challenged professionals in the insurance sector to embrace innovation, technology and strategic collaboration in order to remain relevant in a highly competitive global economy.
He also stressed the importance of mentoring younger professionals and sustaining institutional values capable of ensuring continuity in professional bodies.
The opening remarks at the ceremony were delivered by Mrs Oluwatoyin Bello, who represented the Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr Olusegun Omoshein.
In her address, Bello applauded PILA for its consistent contributions to the development of the insurance sector and for creating opportunities for women professionals to thrive within the industry.
She noted that the insurance industry in Nigeria had continued to evolve through the dedication and professionalism of associations such as PILA, adding that the commission remained committed to supporting initiatives that promote excellence and ethical standards.
Several dignitaries at the event also praised Onakomaiya’s tenure, describing her administration as one focused on unity, empowerment and institutional strengthening.
Speakers recalled various initiatives introduced during her presidency, including professional development programmes, networking platforms and advocacy efforts aimed at improving the visibility of women in insurance leadership positions.
Members of the association highlighted how her leadership encouraged greater participation among younger professionals while strengthening relationships with stakeholders across the financial services industry.
Past presidents and senior executives who attended the ceremony expressed confidence that the incoming administration under Dr Joyce Odiachi would sustain the momentum and continue building on the achievements recorded over the past two years.
The event also featured awards presentations to notable individuals and professionals who have contributed significantly to the growth of the insurance industry and the advancement of PILA over the years.
Emotional moments were witnessed as colleagues, associates and members paid glowing tributes to Onakomaiya, describing her as a dedicated leader whose tenure reflected discipline, vision and service.
In her remarks, the outgoing president expressed gratitude to members of the association, industry stakeholders and her family for their support throughout her administration.
She reaffirmed her commitment to the growth of the insurance profession and urged members of PILA to remain united and focused on promoting professionalism and integrity within the industry.
Onakomaiya also pledged continued support for the association even after leaving office, promising to contribute her experience and expertise toward the advancement of the organisation.
The ceremony ended with networking sessions and goodwill exchanges among participants, many of whom described the event as a fitting celebration of impactful leadership and service within Nigeria’s insurance sector.
As preparations continue for the formal transition in June, stakeholders within the industry say the outgoing president leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, collaboration and dedication to the empowerment of women in insurance leadership.
