‘I’m honoured’ – Pastor Jerry Eze joins Heirs Life Assurance as independent non-executive director

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Heirs Life Assurance, the life insurance arm of Heirs Insurance Group, has appointed Pastor Jerry Eze, Founder and Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International Ministry, as an Independent Non-Executive Director on its board.

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The appointment took effect on Monday, August 10, 2026, according to a statement issued by the company’s management and made available to journalists on Monday.

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The insurer said the decision was aimed at supporting efforts to broaden financial inclusion and increase insurance adoption across Nigeria.

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According to the statement, the appointment “reinforces Heirs Life Assurance’s commitment to expanding financial inclusion and accelerating insurance adoption by strengthening public trust, consumer education, and long-term financial resilience across Nigeria.”

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The company noted that insurance penetration in Nigeria remains below one per cent despite the country being Africa’s largest economy, adding that improving public confidence in insurance remains critical.

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It added, “Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria’s insurance penetration remains below one per cent – among the lowest globally – highlighting the need to expand financial protection and build greater public trust in insurance.”

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The statement said Eze’s experience in community engagement and value-based leadership would bring an important perspective to the board as the company pursues its goal of making insurance accessible to more Nigerians.

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It further highlighted his role as convener of the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declaration (NSPPD), describing it as one of the world’s largest digital prayer platforms with millions of daily participants.

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The company also referenced his humanitarian activities through the Jerry Eze Foundation, including housing support and grants for vulnerable communities. It noted that in 2026 he announced N1 billion in grants for young entrepreneurs in agriculture, technology, and manufacturing.

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Heirs Life also recalled that “Before entering full-time ministry, Pastor Jerry Eze built a career in development communications, serving as a Communications Specialist on a World Bank HIV/AIDS programme and with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and International Relations from Abia State University and a postgraduate degree in Business Administration from Enugu State University of Science and Technology.”

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Commenting on the appointment, Chairman of Heirs Life Assurance, Tony Elumelu, said, “Pastor Jerry brings an exceptional combination of integrity, influence, and a deep understanding of people and communities.

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“As we continue our mission to democratise access to insurance, his insight will help strengthen consumer trust, deepen financial inclusion, and reinforce our commitment to protecting the financial future of millions of Nigerians.

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“We are delighted to welcome him to the Board of Heirs Life Assurance and the broader family of Heirs Insurance Group.”

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Eze, reacting to the appointment, said, “I am honoured to join the Board of Heirs Life Assurance at a defining moment for the insurance industry. Financial security empowers individuals, families, and businesses to pursue their aspirations with greater confidence and resilience. I look forward to working with the Board and Management to advance the company’s mission of making insurance more accessible, relevant, and impactful for every Nigerian.”

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