In many previously male-dominated industries, women are rewriting the script, smashing stereotypes, and soaring to new heights. With grit, grace, and boundless ambition, they’re architecting their own success stories.
One such remarkable woman is Mrs. Yetunde Olubunmi Ilori, an amazon in the Nigerian insurance landscape, whose recent appointment as President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) has ignited excitement throughout the industry and beyond.
With over 30-years experience in the insurance industry, Mrs. Ilori’s career journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. After graduating from the University of Lagos with a degree in Actuarial Science in 1984, she embarked on her professional path at Trans Nigeria Assurance Co. Ltd. in Ibadan, Oyo State. While working there, she rose to become the Head of Life and Pensions Department. In 1997, she joined Crusader Insurance Plc., where she held various significant positions, including the Head of Actuarial, Research & Statistics, and Life Departments.
Leadership positions
Mrs. Yetunde Olubunmi Ilori is a Certified Insurance practitioner, a Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (FIIN), and an alumna of the Advanced Management Programme of the prestigious Lagos Business School. Her exceptional leadership acumen and dedication to driving growth led to her appointment as the CEO of AXA Mansard Insurance.
She has held esteemed positions such as Chairperson for the Life Offices Committee and currently serves as the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA). Additionally, Mrs. Ilori chairs the Life Committee of the African Insurance Organization, which highlights her commitment to the advancement of the insurance industry.
Commitment to philanthropy
Beyond her professional achievements, Mrs. Yetunde Ilori is deeply committed to philanthropy. In memory of her late husband, she established the Reverend Kunle Ilori Foundation, which provides support to over 300 widows through financial assistance and distribution of food items on a quarterly basis.
Her faith-driven leadership extends to her role as a gospel minister at Abiding Word Evangelical Church Int’l, Lagos State, where she inspires her congregation and the wider community.
Appointment as the President of CIIN
Mrs. Yetunde Ilori’s trailblazing approach and visionary mindset have positioned her as a transformative force in the insurance sector.
Her appointment as President of CIIN is a testament to her remarkable accomplishments and unwavering advocacy for diversity, inclusivity, and community empowerment.
Experts from the industry have admired her strategic foresight and ability to navigate complexities. Dr. Alim Abubakre, founder of TEXEM UK, sees her appointment as a beacon of hope for a vibrant future in the Nigerian insurance sector. He also expressed his confidence in her ability to lead the institute towards innovation and sustainable growth.
Caroline Lucas, the Director of Special Projects at TEXEM UK, describes Mrs. Ilori as a leader in the insurance domain and a symbol of hope and inspiration for professionals everywhere. She brings a clear vision for embracing digital transformation and sustainability, while paving the way for progress and innovation.
