The Chairperson, Heirs Insurance Brokers, a member of Heirs Insurance Group) and Chairperson Avon HMO, Dr. Awele Elumelu has joined other female business leaders in the call for gender parity and more women in leadership in Nigeria’s insurance industry.
She spoke at the just-concluded International Conference for Women in Insurance organised by the African Insurance Women Association (AIWA) in Lagos.
In her keynote address, “The Future of Insurance: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities,” Dr. Elumelu emphasised that female leadership is both a strategic advantage and an ethical imperative.
Speaking on the urgency to bring more women into this field is clear, she stated that women bring fresh perspectives and empathy, and these are essential for designing inclusive, people-centred solutions.”
She highlighted the low insurance penetration of the African insurance industry, currently below three per cent, as a significant growth opportunity. She stressed the potential of digital solutions and microinsurance to enhance accessibility and inclusion.
She said: “With our young, tech-savvy population, we have a unique chance to build products that truly resonate with Africans, especially through mobile technology, which can help reach underserved communities and foster financial literacy among younger generations.”
She called for stronger public-private partnerships to foster regulatory innovation and enhance customer trust. A collaborative approach between industry players, regulators, and local communities will set the stage for a resilient and inclusive insurance sector that can drive economic growth across Africa.”
Speaking on the conference, Lady Margaret Moore, President of the Africa Insurance Women Association, stated, “This landmark event, the first of its kind, brings together African women in insurance to empower and inspire one another.’’
The conference aims to foster connections, share knowledge, and promote collaboration across the industry.”
