By LOVETH AZODO, Lagos
The Nigeria Insurers Association (NIA) has appointed Kunle Ahmed as its 26th Chairman, bringing decades of experience in the insurance industry to his new leadership role.
Elected on June 27, 2024, Ahmed’s appointment marks the continuation of a distinguished career that has seen him rise from humble beginnings to the top of the Nigerian insurance sector.
Born on July 11, 1965, at Island Maternity Hospital in Lagos, Kunle Ahmed grew up in the Shomolu area of Lagos. The second of nine children, he was exposed to the business world early in life, as both his parents were traders. His early involvement in buying and selling instilled in him a sense of independence and resilience that would shape his future career.
Ahmed attended St Peter & Paul UNA Primary School in Lagos before continuing his education at Ilala Primary School in Kwara State, following his father’s belief that living away from home would help him build character.
He then attended Government Secondary School Omu Aran, where he excelled academically and in sports, representing the school in football and handball. After graduating with top marks, Ahmed went on to study Sociology at the University of Ilorin, graduating with a Second Class Honors Lower Division.
After completing his National Youth Service at Ejigbo High School, Osun State, Ahmed briefly joined his family’s business but soon moved on to pursue a career in finance. His early career in the finance sector included a role at Libran Limited, where he was promoted twice in quick succession for his outstanding performance. However, it was in 1994, when he joined Industrial & General Insurance (IGI), that Ahmed’s path into the insurance industry truly began.
At IGI, Ahmed initially worked in the Marketing department before moving into the Oil & Energy division, where he received extensive training in the United Kingdom and South Africa. His commitment to the industry led him to pursue an Executive Diploma in Insurance at the University of Lagos, graduating with Upper Credit. He also attended the West African Insurance Institute (WAII) in The Gambia, where he excelled, winning five out of eight prizes as the best graduating student.
Ahmed’s career continued its upward trajectory when he joined Heritage Assurance Limited, now AXA Mansard Insurance, in 2004. Over the next 20 years, he held various senior positions, including Head of the Energy Group, Divisional Director of Institutional Business, and Executive Director. In 2017, he was appointed Chief Executive Officer of AXA Mansard, where he led the company’s corporate sales and risk management strategies.
In addition to his executive role at AXA Mansard, Ahmed holds key positions across several organizations. He serves on the boards of companies and industry associations, including AXA Mansard Health Limited and stry and National Bureau Chairman of the ECOWAS Brown Card.
Ahmed’s leadership within the NIA has been equally remarkable. Joining the Governing Council in 2018, he has served in various capacities, including Honorary Treasurer, Chairman of the Finance & Investment Committee, and Deputy Chairman. His unanimous election as the 26th Chairman reflects his long-standing commitment to the industry and his peers’ confidence in his ability to lead the Association.
Ahmed’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Nigerian insurance industry, and his vision for the future aligns with the NIA’s goals of driving growth and innovation.
His wealth of experience, both in Nigeria and internationally, positions him as a leader capable of steering the industry toward greater success.
Kunle Ahmed is married to Adedotun, and they are blessed with children.
Others1 week ago
News2 days ago
Business News1 week ago