By Ebunoluwa Sessou

Professional Insurance Ladies Association, PILA, has promised to continue to advocate for professional development, equal opportunities and empowerment for women in the industry. The Association has also called on Nigerians to key into insurance policy as part of a tangible investment capable of saving untold hardship in future.

In her acceptance speech as the 15th PILA president, during her investiture, Mrs. Bimbola Onakomaiya recognized the role of women as essential backbone of the Nigerian economy; stressing the importance of insurance as a tangible investment from cradle to grave.

Onakomaiya, who took the baton of leadership to lead the association for another two years promised to work on her seven points agenda to ensure that the association continues to evolve especially for its members to remain an essential force in shaping financial inclusivity.

According to her, “The journey of PILA, spanning five decades, is a testament to the resilience and determination of women in the insurance industry.

Early in her welcome address, the immediate past president, Mrs. Nkechi Moore, of PILA, extended her appreciation to members, sponsors, as well as participants for their unwavering support.

“We look forward to the future with optimism and enthusiasm, knowing that together, we will continue to thrive and make a positive impact in our community”, she said.

The keynote speaker, Group Head & GM Investor Relations & Corporate Development, Zenith Bank Plc, Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani, noted that the world is experiencing industrial revolution adding that with the advent of artificial intelligence around the world, it is important to stay abreast of the situation to sail through.

“You need to live your life to its fullest. You need to invest in knowledge in order to safe your future. You need to recognize opportunities and know when it is ripe to take advantage.

“You need to value the importance of wealth creation and prepare your journey. You need to take advantage of the trend and the opportunities offered by the insurance industry. You need to work with a professional who understands the importance of value chain opportunities.

“We need to focus on the priorities. This is the time to consistently be committed to ensuring that the insurance industry does not suffer any form of loss. We must be persistent enough to understand that all races can be managed. We must be resilient and build great support networks”, she said.

Meanwhile, the Director, Supervisor, National Insurance Commission, Oluwatoyin Charles, called all men to genuinely appreciate the immense contribution of the professional competence and managerial skills of our women.

Charles who represented the Commissioner for Insurance, NAICOM, Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, reiterated that the investiture of the 15th PILA president is a testament to her outstanding dedication, remarkable achievements and unwavering commitments to the insurance profession.

“Her extensive experiences in leadership skills and visionary outlook have greatly contributed to the growth and the development of our organization. I have no doubt that under her able leadership, PILA will continue to thrive and make impactful contributions in the industry in Nigeria, Africa and the entire world.

“PILA is a symbol of excellence and professional development in the Nigerian industry. Over the years, PILA has played a vital role in the area of inclusivity and diversity advocating for gender equality, providing opportunities and managerial platforms for women to excel.

“Today, as we celebrate this great woman, we must remind ourselves of the commitment of our organisation and continue to thrive to achieve greater heights. The continuous collaboration of PILA and National Insurance Commission, NAICOM, is highly appreciated as a Nigerian insurance sector saddled with responsibility of ensuring integrity and standard in and out of its territory.

“It is important that we prioritize the potentials of policy holders and beneficiaries by ensuring prompt settlement of claims.

“As part of our objectives, we are saddled with maintaining high standards and professional ethics. By supporting PILA, we are not only investing in the future of insurance but also in the overall progress and sustainability of our industry”, she said.

Also, the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, urged the new president to know that her appointment as the 15th president of PILA, is not merely a title or position of authority but a testament to her exceptional leadership, quality, strategic vision and unwavering commitment to bring about positive change to the industry.

“You have demonstrated the tenacity to make strong and convincing decisions that would bring about positive change in the industry. We have no doubt that if you will continue to lead with integrity, passion and excellence to lead the association to a greater future.
“True leadership is essential to navigate through the opportunities. Your commitment and resilience would open a chapter to attaining success. Your collaboration with other people in the industry would build confidence in your members. The insurance network will continue to thrive and make a lasting impact on the financial sector.