Lagos: Ms Kesiena Ughwode, Chief Executive Officer of Almond Productions Ltd., announced that the Almond Insurance Industry Awards has significantly improved the promptness of operational data updates among insurance companies. Ughwode, who is the convener of the awards, made this statement during a news conference in Lagos in anticipation of the fourth edition of the ceremony.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ughwode emphasized that insurance firms now recognize the critical importance of updating their records promptly to avoid potential negative outcomes during assessments and industry evaluations. She noted that the awards panel places substantial reliance on the operational data provided by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and the participating companies, compelling insurers to proactively ensure their records are consistently updated with the commission.
Ughwode remarked, “Insurance companies now operate with a consciousness of the importance of updating their data promptly. The awards have put them on their toes because judges rely on NAICOM and company data during assessments.” She also announced that the fourth edition of the awards would be held on November 6 at The Stable Event Place, Surulere, Lagos. The initiative was created to honor the resilience, innovation, and achievements of professionals across Nigeria’s insurance value chain, despite the prevailing economic and social challenges faced by businesses in the country.
Ughwode revealed that the awards website had been revamped to simplify nominations and voting for stakeholders, following feedback from previous editions. She disclosed that nominations for the 2026 edition opened on Tuesday and will close on June 30, urging stakeholders to visit the awards portal early to nominate deserving candidates before the deadline.
In addition, Mr Ogala Osoka, Chairman of the Awards Panel of Judges, discussed the theme for this year’s awards, “Reemergence,” which reflects significant reforms and developments reshaping Nigeria’s insurance industry. Osoka explained that the theme symbolizes the implementation of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act and the recapitalization exercise, both expected to herald a new era for the sector nationwide.
Prof Olajide Fadun from the University of Lagos stated that the 2026 edition would feature 12 award categories, covering both voting and non-voting segments, and highlighted the addition of a new category, Insurtech Company of the Year. This new category underscores the growing influence of technology and innovation in Nigeria’s insurance business environment.
The awards jury, which includes Mrs Jean Anishere (SAN), noted improved public participation and positive responses to the awards and nomination process over the years. New to the panel this year is real estate expert Mr Hakeem Ogunniran, founder of Exima Realty Co Ltd. and Mercury Nominees Investments Ltd., who brings valuable experience from his background in purchasing insurance products and services for corporate organizations. Returning panel members include actuary Mr Rotimi Okpaise, Mrs Jean Anishere SAN, Dr Obinna Chilekezie, and Mr Rasaaq Salami.