From right: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Unitrust Insurance Company Limited, Adedayo Arowojolu, receiving appreciation award plague from Dr Julius Odede, Head of Lagos Operations at National Insurance Commission,( NAICOM), at the just concluded 2026 BusinessToday Annual Conference and Exhibition on Insurance and Pensions held in Lagos , with the Convener of the conference, Mrs. Nkechi Naeche-Esezobor.
BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR —-The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Unitrust Insurance Company Limited, Adedayo Arowojolu, has called for increased youth participation in Nigeria’s insurance industry, emphasizing the need to reposition the sector to align with the expectations of a younger generation.
Arowojolu made this known while speaking as a panelist at the 2026 BusinessToday Annual Conference and Exhibition on Insurance and Pensions held in Lagos, themed “Youth Advantage: Redefining Insurance and Pensions for a New Era.”
According to him, the insurance industry must deliberately attract young people, noting that many youths do not naturally consider insurance as a preferred career path.
“If we take a poll among students today on their preferred industries, insurance will likely rank low, behind sectors like oil and gas, fintech, and banking,” he said.
He admitted that his own entry into the industry was accidental, but described the sector as one filled with opportunities and long-term value.
“I found myself in insurance by chance, but since joining, I have discovered what I would have missed if I had not worked in the industry,” he added.
Arowojolu explained that insurance, by its nature, offers future value, which may not immediately appeal to a generation that prioritizes instant rewards. However, he stressed that changing economic realities now allow young people to earn and build wealth earlier, making financial protection more relevant than ever.
“Many young people today are earning income—even as students—through digital platforms and content creation. The question is: what do you do with that income? Insurance helps secure that value and protect the future against unforeseen risks,” he said.
He further highlighted ongoing efforts within the industry to drive transformation, including a 10-year Nigerian Insurance Industry Transformation Framework focused on growth and human capital development, particularly among youth.
Addressing strategies to engage young people, Arowojolu identified two key approaches: converting them into customers and attracting them as professionals.
On customer engagement, he emphasized the need for increased advocacy, product innovation, and youth involvement in product development.
“We cannot continue to sell the same products and expect different results. Young people should be part of designing products that meet their needs,” he noted.
He also underscored the importance of rebuilding trust in the industry, particularly through prompt claims settlement. He commended regulatory efforts to ensure accountability, noting that insurance companies are now required to regularly justify outstanding claims or face penalties.
In addition, he stressed the importance of leveraging technology, including fintech and insurtech platforms, to make insurance products more accessible and engaging for younger audiences.
“Everyone uses a mobile phone today. Insurance products must be integrated into these platforms to remain relevant,” he said.
On attracting youth as professionals, Arowojolu noted that insurance companies are increasingly improving remuneration and workplace culture to compete with other industries.
He revealed that Unitrust Insurance has, in recent years, deliberately recruited young talent to inject fresh ideas and innovation into the organization.
However, he emphasized that recruitment alone is not enough.
“The key challenge is retention. Organizations must create environments that resonate with young people,” he said.
He highlighted initiatives such as flexible work arrangements, hybrid work models, and support for professional development as critical factors in attracting and retaining young talent.
“For instance, we operate a hybrid system with three days of physical presence weekly, allowing employees time for personal pursuits while maintaining productivity,” he explained.
Arowojolu concluded by encouraging young people to consider insurance both as a means of financial security and as a viable, rewarding career path.
BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—In a time when confidence in insurance is steadily growing, a satisfied customer of Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc is sharing his experience to encourage more Nigerians to embrace the value of protection and peace of mind.
Mr. Abdelhamid Abdelrahman of RAP Building Solutions Ltd recently applauded the company for its swift claims settlement and attentive customer service, describing his journey as clear evidence that insurance truly works when managed by a dependable provider.
Abdelrahman explained that his decision to insure his vehicles with the company was influenced by its strong reputation and visible presence within his business environment in Lagos. Easy access to one of its offices also gave him added confidence, allowing for seamless interaction and support whenever needed. Four years on, he remains a loyal customer.
He said: “I had my doubts at some point, thinking that because they are one of the oldest insurance companies, perhaps their service might not be as efficient. But when I had a vehicle claim in 2023, it was processed in no time.”
He added that subsequent claims involving other vehicles in his fleet were handled just as efficiently, further strengthening his confidence in the company.
“Since then, I have felt that whenever I have a vehicle, I will always subscribe to their packages and services. Mutual Benefits may be one of the oldest, but they are still one of the most responsive insurance companies in Nigeria.Their response to customers’ questions and feedback is very fast. I have no regrets partnering with them,” he stated.
Abdelrahman also used the opportunity to encourage Nigerians who remain sceptical about insurance to reconsider their views.
“Many people believe insurance does not work in Nigeria, but it does. When the time comes to make a claim and it is handled smoothly, then you know insurance truly works,” he said.
Industry experts have repeatedly noted that prompt claims settlement remains one of the strongest indicators of trust and credibility in the insurance sector. According to analysts, customers are more likely to retain policies, renew coverage and recommend insurers when claims are paid quickly and transparently.
They explain that efficient claims management not only provides financial relief during difficult times but also helps improve public perception of insurance as a dependable financial safety net. In markets where scepticism exists, real customer experiences and timely claims payments often play a critical role in driving adoption.
Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc has consistently positioned prompt claims settlement as a core part of its customer promise, with billions of naira paid out monthly across life and general insurance categories.
As economic uncertainties continue to heighten the need for financial protection, stakeholders say insurers that deliver swift and seamless claims experiences are likely to enjoy stronger customer loyalty and wider market acceptance.
BY SUNDAY SAMUEL—Nasarawa State Police Command attached to Karshi Divisional Headquarters have arrested one Pastor Asonye Isaiah, 37, of Rock of Love and Adoration Ground, Old Karsh I, Abuja, for allegedly defiling a 16-year-old girl in Nasarawa State.
According to statement released by SP Ramhan Nansel, Police Public Relations Officer, via the commands official X account that the arrest followed a complaint lodged at the Division on 18th April, 2026, at about 2000hrs.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect deceived the victim’s aunt, claiming her niece was “
possessed” and required cleansing at a river. He instead took the victim to a hotel in New Karshi, where he allegedly had unlawful carnal knowledge of her twice. He further threatened to kill her if she disclosed the incident.
The crime came to light after the victim’s guardian observed unusual changes in her behaviour and questioned her. The victim was immediately taken for medical examination, which confirmed penile penetration.
Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to the offence and pleaded for leniency.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Lafia, for comprehensive investigation and prosecution.
He assured that justice will be served and urged members of the public to exercise caution regarding places of worship they attend and individuals who parade themselves as clerics.