The Commissionet for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin with the Chairman, Council of Bureaux, ECOWAS Brown Card Scheme, Mr. Habib Dia
By LOVETH AZODO, Lagos
The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, has called for stricter compliance and improved efficiency in the settlement of cross-border insurance claims, warning that delays and inconsistencies could erode confidence in the ECOWAS Brown Card Scheme.
Speaking at the First Zonal Meeting of the ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance Scheme held in Lagos, Omosehin said prompt and fair claims settlement remains central to the credibility and sustainability of the regional insurance framework, which provides compensation for victims of cross-border road accidents.
He stressed that regulators across member countries must enforce operational discipline by ensuring timely settlement of valid claims, adherence to established guidelines and stronger collaboration among national bureaux.
According to him, any breakdown in claims processes undermines trust in the system and weakens the broader objective of financial protection for road users within the region.
The commissioner noted that the effectiveness of the scheme depends largely on the ability of participating countries to maintain a transparent and responsive claims mechanism, particularly as cross-border mobility increases across West Africa.
He added that regulators must remain vigilant in safeguarding the financial stability of their respective markets while ensuring that claimants receive due compensation without unnecessary delays.
Omosehin also highlighted the role of digital transformation in improving claims administration, noting that technology can enhance verification processes, speed up information exchange and strengthen fraud detection.
However, he cautioned that digital adoption must be carefully managed to address concerns around data governance, cybersecurity and system compatibility across member states.
He further underscored the importance of regional cooperation in sustaining the scheme, describing it as a system built on mutual trust and shared responsibility among ECOWAS countries.
He said continuous engagement among regulators and stakeholders is critical to resolving operational challenges and ensuring uniformity in claims handling procedures.
The ECOWAS Brown Card Scheme, which facilitates insurance coverage for motorists travelling across member states, is designed to guarantee compensation for victims of road accidents beyond national borders.
Omosehin noted that when effectively implemented, the scheme not only protects road users but also strengthens public confidence in insurance and supports regional economic integration.
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