follow and like on:
By Taiye Olayemi
The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) has honoured the doyen of the Nigerian insurance industry, Olola Olabode Ogunlana, for his selfless service and contributions to the growth of the association.
Also recognised were past chairmen and members of the association’s governing council, whose dedication over the years had helped to shape the insurance industry in Nigeria.
Speaking at the 2026 NIA Awards and Recognition Ceremony in Lagos, the Chairman of NIA, Mr Kunle Ahmed, said the event was organised to celebrate individuals whose vision, sacrifices and commitment laid the foundation for the association’s success.
Ahmed noted that one of the honourees, Mr Olusegun Omosehin, the current Commissioner for Insurance, was a past chairman of the association and Ogunlana was also a founding father of the association.
He said that another honouree, Mrs Yetunde Ilori, President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Insurance (CIIN), who was the first female director-general of the association, played a strategic role in building the Insurers House.
Ahmed noted that the NIA’s 55-year journey had been sustained by the selfless service of its past leaders, who made difficult decisions, upheld high standards and safeguarded the integrity of the insurance industry.
He said their contributions had built an enduring association that continued to inspire confidence and pride among stakeholders.
“During my consultations with some of our past leaders before my investiture and even during challenging times, I benefited immensely from their wealth of experience and wise counsel.
“We truly appreciate your selflessness. Through your vision and sacrifices, you built an enduring association, one that continues to inspire pride and confidence in all of us today,” he said.
According to him, the recognition ceremony underscores the importance of appreciating those whose efforts are instrumental in the formation and growth of the association.
He noted that the honourees served without financial rewards yet made sacrifices that laid a solid foundation for the industry.
Ahmed announced that the awards and recognition ceremony would become a regular event of the association, as approved by the governing council.
“As we look to the future, we must draw strength from our past achievements.
“Though we have made significant progress, there is still much to be done to further strengthen the industry and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
Ahmed also urged past leaders to document their experiences in books to serve as reference materials for future leaders and to guide decision-making in the industry.
He expressed optimism that the recognition would inspire current stakeholders to build on the legacy of excellence and service established by the association’s pioneers.
Mr Idris Shuaibu, Managing Director of Time-Line Consult Ltd., in a lecture titled “Service as the Cornerstone of Leadership and Institutional Legacy” at the ceremony, emphasised the importance of cultivating servant leadership.
He urged leaders to focus on self-development and prioritise service to others as a pathway to building lasting institutions.
Shuaibu warned against adopting an autocratic leadership style, stressing that it often came with negative consequences that could hinder organisational growth and sustainability.
According to him, leaders who embrace service-driven values are better positioned to inspire trust, foster collaboration and leave enduring legacies.
Timeless photographs of the honourees and documentaries showcasing the growth of the insurance industry over the years were displayed, serving as the highlight of the ceremony.
Some of honourees are Mr Tunde Hassan-Odukale, G.U.S Wiggle, Mr Eddie Efekoha, Mr Tope Smart, Mr Ladipo Ajayi, Mr Wole Oshin, Mr Ganiyu Musa, who were all past chairmen, among others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Christiana Fadare
follow and like on:
