Behind the Smiles: Inside AIICO’s Emotional Farewell Night for Retirees

By LOVETH AZODO,  Lagos

It was a night of emotions, laughter, and silent reflections as AIICO Insurance Plc hosted a farewell dinner to celebrate employees who have completed their years of meritorious service to the company.

The event, held at the company’s corporate head office in Lagos on Friday night, brought together staff, management, and family members in a ceremony that blended gratitude with nostalgia.

The evening was organized to honour retirees who had dedicated decades of their careers to building the legacy of one of Nigeria’s oldest and most resilient insurance brands.

Though themed as a farewell, it was more of a reunion a moment when memories flowed freely and smiles masked the emotions beneath.

Speaking at the ceremony, AIICO’s Managing Director, Mr. Babatunde Fajemirokun, commended the retirees for their loyalty and professionalism, noting that their contributions formed the foundation upon which the company continues to thrive.

“You have not only served AIICO, you have served Nigeria’s insurance industry,” he said.

“Your commitment is a story that will inspire the next generation of employees.”

For many in attendance, the night was not just about parting ways but also celebrating shared history the long hours, the teamwork, and the challenges that shaped both the individuals and the institution.

Several retirees, now stepping into a new chapter of their lives, described the event as an unforgettable moment of honour. Some held back tears as colleagues recounted fond memories of working together through decades of transformation in the insurance landscape.

While the mood was cheerful, the underlying emotion was one of gratitude and reflection  a quiet reminder that careers, like life itself, are measured not only in years served but in lives touched.

As the night drew to a close, guests clapped, hugged, and took photos a fitting end to a remarkable evening that blended corporate recognition with human warmth.

For AIICO, the farewell night was more than a ceremony; it was a reaffirmation of its culture of appreciation ensuring that those who built its past remain part of its story, even in retirement.