The West African Insurance Companies Association (WAICA) is gearing up for its 2025 Education Conference, focusing on the critical theme of “The West African Insurer In The Face Of Climate Change.” Scheduled for October 12-15, 2025, at the Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, Nigeria, the conference promises to be a significant event for the insurance industry in the region and beyond. The event will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, the Commissioner for Insurance/Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission, who will deliver the keynote address. This sets the stage for a high-level discussion on the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change to the insurance sector.
The conference’s focus on climate change reflects the growing recognition of its profound impact on the insurance industry. The changing climate patterns are leading to an increase in the frequency and severity of natural disasters, impacting insurance claims and requiring insurers to adapt their risk assessment and management strategies. The conference will provide a platform for industry leaders, experts, and policymakers to discuss and share best practices for mitigating the effects of climate change on the insurance business in West Africa. The speakers and attendees will explore innovative solutions, strategies, and regulatory approaches needed to build resilience within the industry and ensure its long-term sustainability in the face of climate-related risks.
The speakers’ roster also includes high-profile figures from across West Africa, including Mr. Bockarie Kaloko, the Deputy Minister of Finance of the Republic of Sierra Leone, and Dr. Abiba Zakariah, the Acting Commissioner of Insurance of Ghana. Their participation highlights the regional significance of the conference and the collaborative approach being taken to address the climate change challenge. Mr. Wole Oshin, Group Managing Director of Custodian Investments Plc, brings a valuable perspective from the investment sector, crucial for understanding the financial implications of climate change and the role of insurers in promoting sustainable investments. The diverse expertise represented by the speakers promises a rich and comprehensive exploration of the conference theme.
The conference is expected to draw approximately 150 WAICA members from across the sub-region, including Nigeria, Ghana, Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, as well as participants from beyond West Africa. This broad representation underlines the importance of the conference as a forum for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration on a critical issue facing the insurance industry. Mrs. Bola Odukale, Director-General of the Nigerian Insurers Association, emphasized the significance of the conference, highlighting the anticipated learning outcomes and their potential impact on insurance businesses across Africa. She expressed confidence that the conference will enhance understanding of climate change and its implications for the industry, ultimately leading to more informed decision-making and improved business practices.
Hosting the conference in Lagos, Nigeria, adds another layer of significance to the event. As the commercial hub of Nigeria and a major economic player in West Africa, Lagos provides a fitting backdrop for discussions on the future of the insurance industry in the region. Mr. Eddie Efekoha, Chairman of CHI Holdings Limited and former President of WAICA, expressed his enthusiasm for Nigeria hosting the conference and emphasized the opportunity to showcase Nigerian hospitality to delegates. He also highlighted the potential for delegates to explore Lagos and its attractions, creating a well-rounded experience beyond the conference sessions. Mr. Efekoha’s comments reflect the importance of the conference not only as a platform for professional development but also as an opportunity to foster stronger relationships and promote regional cooperation within the insurance community.
The conference also provides a unique opportunity to highlight the investment potential of Nigeria. Mr. Tope Smart, Past President of the African Insurance Organisation and Chairman of NEM Insurance Plc, emphasized Nigeria’s attractiveness as an investment destination, citing its rich talent pool and favorable investment climate. He underscored the potential for delegates to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria, further strengthening the country’s position as a key player in the African insurance market. The conference thus serves as a valuable platform for showcasing Nigeria’s economic strengths and attracting potential investors to the insurance sector. Overall, the WAICA 2025 Education Conference is poised to be a pivotal event, bringing together key stakeholders to address one of the most pressing challenges facing the industry today. The focus on climate change, coupled with the diverse expertise of the speakers and the strategic location of Lagos, promises a highly productive and insightful conference that will shape the future of insurance in West Africa.
