Author: Salisu Sani-Idris

By Taiye Olayemi

AXA Mansard Insurance Plc in commemoration of Valentine’s Day, distributed care packages and offeried free health insurance coverage to selected policyholders in Lagos.

The company in a statement on Saturday, said the gesture was aimed at deepening customer relationships by extending care beyond traditional celebrations to include protection and wellbeing.

During the exercise, AXA Mansard conducted surprise visits to policyholders, presenting packages and personalised support.

The initiative also featured the participation of Uzor Arukwe, popularly known as “Odogwu,” who engaged policyholders during the visits.

Some of the beneficiaries included new mothers adjusting to early parenthood, as well as individuals navigating sensitive personal situations.

The insurer noted that the outreach was designed to demonstrate its commitment to supporting policyholders during critical life moments.

According to the company, the Valentine initiative aligned with its broader strategy of delivering not only insurance solutions but also tangible reassurance to clients.

AXA Mansard also announced the relaunch of its “She Is In Charge” platform for 2026, a community-driven initiative aimed at empowering women to balance career ambitions, personal development and relationships.

The February edition of the platform focused on intentional living, encouraging women to pursue financial independence and personal wellbeing while maintaining family aspirations.

As part of the programme, a female entrepreneur shared her experience of managing marital pressures while growing her business, highlighting the importance of communication, restructuring and self-advocacy.

The company stated that the combined initiatives reflected its evolving customer engagement approach, which integrates financial protection with social impact and community building.

AXA Mansard, a member of the AXA Group, provides life, health and general insurance, as well as investment management services to individuals and businesses across Nigeria.

By Taiye Olayemi

The Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, has warned that weak governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems could trigger capital flight, distort markets and erode investor confidence in Nigeria.

Kwairanga gave the warning on Friday while delivering the opening address at the InnovateAI Conference Lagos 2026.

In a statement on Saturday, the NGX Chairman emphasised that the risks associated with poorly governed AI were no longer theoretical.

He said: “Across the world, capital flows toward markets that demonstrate predictability, governance and trust.

“If AI systems are opaque, discriminatory or vulnerable to breaches, that risk is priced into companies, sectors and ultimately into the country itself.”

Kwairanga cautioned that as AI becomes deeply integrated into financial systems, including credit scoring, trading strategies and compliance monitoring, failure to embed accountability could destabilise institutions.

“Imagine AI-driven credit models systematically excluding certain demographics due to biased data, or automated trading systems amplifying volatility due to weak controls.

“These are structural risks that can erode public confidence,” he said.

The NGX chairman noted that AI adoption in Nigeria was already being driven by market forces, shifting the focus from whether to adopt the technology to how responsibly it is deployed.

Kwairanga made reference to recent enforcement actions by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission as a clear indication that data governance was now enforceable, with real financial and reputational consequences.

“Data governance is no longer optional, it is enforceable,” he said.

He emphasised that in capital markets, trust remained fundamental to stability and growth.

“In the markets, trust is the oxygen of the system. Every trade and every investment decision rests on confidence in the integrity of the market,” he added.

Kwairanga said institutions must ensure that AI strengthens transparency, fairness and oversight, rather than weakening them, emphasising that governance must be anticipatory.

He outlined key priorities for responsible AI adoption, including regulatory clarity, stronger board oversight, capacity building and the development of localised AI systems suited to Nigeria’s socio-economic realities.

He called for deliberate investment in AI literacy across both public and private sectors.

He also warned against reliance on foreign-trained AI models that may not reflect local realities, adding that such systems could deepen inequality instead of promoting inclusion.

According to him, responsible AI must be tailored to address Nigeria’s specific challenges, including financial inclusion, healthcare delivery, agriculture and energy optimisation.

“Responsible AI in Nigeria must be context-aware. It must solve Nigerian problems,” he said.

Kwairanga urged stakeholders to anchor Nigeria’s AI strategy on trust, talent and transparency to position the country as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.

“Nations that get AI governance right will attract investment, talent and partnerships. Those that do not will face digital fragmentation and capital flight,” he said.

The NGX Chairman reaffirmed the commitment of the NGX Group to balancing innovation with strong oversight.

“Responsible AI is not anti-innovation. It is pro-sustainability.

“The future will belong to institutions that combine innovation with integrity and technology with trust,” he said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

By Taiye Olayemi

NEM Insurance Plc has unveiled the third edition of its flagship women-focused empowerment initiative, tagged ‘She Means Business 3.0”, aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs across Nigeria.

The General Manager, Corporate Services at NEM Insurance, Mojisola Teluwo, in a statement on Wednesday, said the initiative was part of the company’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and deepening financial inclusion among women.

Teluwo said that the entry window opened on Feb. 16 and would close on Feb. 28 as she urged interested participants to adhere strictly to the timeline.

She explained that three outstanding female entrepreneurs would be selected to receive a cash grant of N250,000 each to scale up their business operations.

According to her, the contest was a strategic response to the need for grassroots economic empowerment.

“At NEM Insurance, our mission extends beyond providing insurance products; we are deeply interested in the growth of the communities we serve.

“The ‘She Means Business’ contest, now in its third phase, is our practical way of inspiring inclusion.

“We recognise the pivotal role women play in the economy, and we are proud to provide this N250,000 financial catalyst to help three visionary women turn their business aspirations into reality,” she said.

Teluwo outlined a simple entry process for participants, which included creating a one-minute video explaining specific actions to accelerate their businesses and uploading it on personal social media handles while tagging the company @neminsuranceplc.

“Participants are also required to follow the company’s social media platforms, engage with the post by liking and sharing, tag five friends, and use the designated hashtag for tracking and validation,” she said.

They are to use #NEMSheMeanBusiness3.0 for tracking and validation.

Industry observers say such initiatives continue to enhance the corporate image of the insurance sector, while encouraging social investment and supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises in the country. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

In a vibrant twist to this year’s Valentine’s Day celebration, AIICO Insurance Plc stepped beyond the traditional flowers-and-chocolates narrative to meet young Nigerians where they are, on the streets and on campus.

Partnering with popular street influencer Kabiyesi, AIICO Insurance brought energy, laughter, and meaningful conversations to undergraduates through engaging street interviews focused on one powerful question: How far would you go to protect the ones you love?

The answers were heartfelt, surprising, and deeply moving.

From spontaneous shout-outs to emotional tributes, many students spoke passionately about their parents, especially their mothers.

One undergraduate declared, “My mum has sacrificed everything for me. If there’s anything I can do to secure her future, I will do it.”

Another said, “If I start making money today, the first thing I’ll do is make sure my family is protected.”

While the atmosphere was fun and lively, complete with playful banter and Valentine-themed giveaways, the message was clear: love is not just about grand gestures; it is also about responsibility.

“For us at AIICO Insurance, Valentine’s Day is about more than romance,” the company’s brand manager, Oluremi John, shared.

“It’s about showing love in practical ways – by protecting the people and things that matter most. Insurance is one of the most powerful ways to do that.”

Through Kabiyesi’s signature high-energy style, students were asked what they would insure if money were no object. The responses ranged from “my mum, without thinking twice” to “my entire family” and even “my small business hustle.”

Many expressed willingness to “pay any price” to shield their loved ones from life’s uncertainties, demonstrating that, even at a young age, they understand the true cost of care and commitment.

Beyond the excitement, the campaign seamlessly blended entertainment with education.

Between laughter and candid moments, AIICO representatives simplified what insurance means, how it works, and why it matters, breaking down common misconceptions and showing that insurance is not distant or complicated, but accessible and relevant to young adults beginning their financial journeys.

As one student put it, “We always think insurance is for older people, but honestly, it makes sense. If you love someone, you should plan for them.”

With over six decades of standing by Nigerians through life’s highs and lows, AIICO Insurance continues to innovate in how it connects with emerging generations.

By taking the conversation to the streets, the company reinforced its commitment to deepening insurance awareness and building a culture of protection among young Nigerians.

This momentum is further reflected in AIICO’s recently refreshed brand identity, reimagined to resonate with younger demographics, their energy, bold aspirations, and evolving lifestyles.

It signals a company that is not only modern in outlook but intentional about journeying with them through every stage of life – supporting their dreams, protecting their milestones, and growing alongside their ambitions.

Valentine’s Day may be known as the season of love, but for AIICO Insurance, it also became a season of purpose, reminding youths that true love plans ahead, prepares for tomorrow, and safeguards the future.

AIICO Insurance is a leading composite insurer in Nigeria, with a 60-year record of accomplishment in delivering quality service to its clients.

By Taiye Olayemi

AXA Mansard Insurance Plc says it has reported a 22 per cent increase in gross insurance revenue to N160.56 billion in its 2025 financial year.

The company in a statement on Monday said this was driven largely by strong renewals and broad-based growth across its business segments, with health insurance leading the expansion.

This is according to the company’s unaudited results for the year ended December 31, 2025.

The company said Property and Casualty revenue rose by 11 per cent to N68.48 billion from N61.88 billion in 2024, while Life and Savings grew by 14 per cent to N25.77 billion from N22.56 billion.

The Health segment recorded the highest growth, rising 40 per cent to N66.32 billion from N47.23 billion the previous year.

In spite the strong revenue performance, Profit Before Tax (PBT) fell sharply by 81 per cent to N6.12 billion from N31.69 billion in 2024.

However, the company noted that the decline was largely due to foreign exchange effects recorded in the prior year.

Commenting on the results, the Chief Financial Officer, Mrs Ngozi Ola-Israel, explained that the 2024 financial year earnings benefited from a one-off foreign exchange gain of N27 billion, compared with a N0.9 billion foreign exchange loss in the 2025 financial year.

“Excluding this non-recurring FX impact, underlying profitability improved significantly, with adjusted profit before tax rising by 46 per cent year-on-year to N6.98 billion,” she said.

‎According to her, the performance reflected disciplined underwriting, sound risk management, and continued improvements in operational efficiency.

She said this is in spite elevated claims severity and frequency in the Property and Casualty and Health portfolios.

‎Also commenting, the Chief Executive Officer, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, Mr Kunle Ahmed, said the Group maintained a strong financial position during the year, supported by robust premium growth, prudent capital management, and adequate liquidity.

He said that while inflationary pressures and higher claims affected margins, the company’s balance sheet and cash generation remained resilient.

‎On regulatory compliance, Ahmed noted that the Group’s unaudited 2025 financial year numbers position it to exceed the new minimum capital requirements under the NIIRA, with over N15 billion for non-life business and N10 billion for life business.

‎Looking ahead to 2026 financial year, Ahmed said AXA Mansard’s management focus would be on accelerating profitable growth, strengthening underwriting and claims discipline, deepening cost efficiency, and investing further in digital and data capabilities to enhance customer outcomes and long-term shareholder value

By Salisu Sani-Idris

A Coalition of Nigerian Muslim women has called on the Federal Government to review the uniforms of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to ensure adequate inclusion of Muslim female corps members.

Ms Firdausi Amasa, a member of the coalition, made the call at a news briefing to mark the 2026 World Hijab Day, held in Abuja, on Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the day, marked annually on February 1, every year, is a powerful global platform that highlights the beauty and significance of the Muslim woman’s dress.

The initiative was founded by Nazma Khan in 2013, inspired by her personal journey of resilience after experiencing verbal and physical challenges for choosing to wear the hijab.

Amasa said, ” Since its inception, World Hijab Day has grown remarkably, touching lives in over 190 countries, including Nigeria, and fostering understanding and unity across diverse communities.”

NAN reports that the theme for 2026 World Hijab Day is “#Unityinhijab.”

Amasa said that that the current uniform of the NYSC was highly inadequate for Muslim female corps members, adding that there was the need for an overhaul of the NYSC dress code to properly include Muslim female corps members and others.

She added, ” We propose that Muslim students be allowed to wear a knee length hijab. Also, they should be exempted from the compulsory requirement to wear shorts for parade and wear long, free, white trousers instead.”

She emphasised the need for the National Assembly to prioritise the swift passage of outstanding bills to safeguard against discrimination based on appearance or faith.

Amasa said, ” These legislations will demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to justice and equity. The society must actively support reverts who choose to wear the hijab, recognising the challenges they often face from loved ones and communities.

” Acceptance, encouragement, and a prejudice-free environment are essential for their journey. Special attention should be given to those facing unique challenges by offering counseling and inclusive support to build their confidence.”

Amasa, who is a legal practitioner, advocated community-driven programme that empower hijab-wearing women through mentorship, skill development, and leadership training.

” These initiatives should connect accomplished professionals with younger women for guidance, equip them with tools to excel in STEM fields, entrepreneurship, and governance, and prepare them for advocacy roles.

” The hijab should be viewed as a symbol of empowerment rather than restriction. We urge individuals, institutions, and leaders to acknowledge the hijab as a reflection of identity, values, and inclusivity.

” It connects women across diverse backgrounds while fostering understanding and unity. Let us embrace the hijab not as a barrier but as a powerful tool for promoting opportunity, respect, and diversity, ” she said.

Amasa called on government agencies, schools and private establishments to implement services that are inclusive of individuals whose appearance reflects their religious beliefs.

According to her, institutions must accommodate hijab-wearing women and recognise the critical role of women in national development.

” Additionally, strict accountability measures should be enforced to address alleged harassment or discrimination against hijab-wearing individuals by public and private institutions.

” We call on schools to respect the Constitution of the land and the Pronouncements of the Apex Court on the inalienable right of Female Muslims to adorn hijab.

” This is imperative so we don’t have to go through additional litigation to enforce the already established right, ” she said.

Amasa also emphasised the need for the media to challenge stereotypes by promoting positive representations of hijab-wearing women.

She added, ” Stories should highlight their achievements as leaders, professionals, and role models while breaking down misconceptions about the hijab.

” Collaborations with organisations such as this Coalition can amplify these narratives on mainstream platforms, emphasizing that the hijab enhances rather than limits potential.

” This approach will foster inclusivity, break barriers, and promote diversity in public discourse.

” By addressing these key areas with clarity and focus, we can collectively advance the rights of hijab-wearing women while fostering an inclusive society that respects diversity and empowers all individuals.”

On her part, Ms Zainab Umar, commended the Federal Ministry of Education, NYSC, Council of Legal Education, Supreme Court of Nigeria, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police, and other institutions for their support to Muslim women.

” These efforts have been instrumental in advancing the rights and dignity of hijab-wearing women, ensuring their inclusion and respect in all spheres of life.

” This strengthens our bond and encourages further collaborations, ” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)