Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has commended the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) for its efforts to promote insurance awareness and expand insurance coverage across the country.

Otti gave the commendation on Monday while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian insurance industry led by the President of the NCRIB, Ekeoma Ezeibe, at Government House, Umuahia.

The governor acknowledged the vital role insurance plays in protecting individuals, businesses, and investments against unforeseen risks, stressing that greater public engagement would help build confidence in the sector.

According to Otti, many residents of Abia are involved in trade, manufacturing, and other micro, small and medium-scale enterprises, making insurance an important tool for safeguarding livelihoods and investments.

He welcomed the planned launch of the Insurance Penetration Initiative in the state and assured stakeholders of his administration’s support in encouraging wider participation among residents.

The governor noted that insurance provides reassurance and financial protection during difficult and unexpected circumstances, adding that direct interaction between regulators, operators, and the public is essential for effective service delivery.

Otti also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders in the insurance industry to promote financial security, economic sustainability, and inclusive growth across the state.

Speaking earlier, Mrs. Ezeibe disclosed that the delegation was in Abia for the 2026 Insurance Chief Executive Officers’ Retreat and the official launch of the Insurance Penetration Initiative.

She explained that Abia was selected as the pilot state for the programme due to Governor Otti’s developmental achievements and his understanding of economic and financial issues.

The NCRIB president praised the administration’s progress in infrastructure development, security, power supply, and economic revitalisation, particularly in Aba, describing Abia as a model for sustainable development.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission, Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, described Abia as a strategic economic hub and commended the governor’s developmental efforts.

Omosehin highlighted the importance of insurance in promoting business continuity, financial inclusion, consumer protection, and economic stability. He also outlined key provisions of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act 2025, including stronger consumer protection measures and the establishment of an Insurance Policyholders Protection Fund.

He assured the government and people of Abia of NAICOM’s support in deepening insurance awareness and adoption, describing the NCRIB initiative as a major step toward building a more resilient economy.

The meeting was attended by senior government officials, including Emmanuel Meribole, Caleb Ajagba, and Darlington Nwokocha, among others.