Prudential Zenith Life Insurance Limited (PZL) has announced significant leadership changes with the appointment of 'Tokunboh Ishmael as the new Chair of its Board of Directors and Funmilayo Abimbola Omo as the new Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer.

These strategic appointments come on the heels of Prudential plc's recent acquisition of the remaining 49% shares in the company as of September 26, 2024, making PZL a fully owned subsidiary of the global insurance giant.

Emmanuel Mokobi Aryee, CEO of Prudential Africa, expressed confidence in the new leadership team, stating: "The appointments of both 'Tokunboh Ishmael as Board Chair and Funmilayo Abimbola Omo as Managing Director/CEO demonstrate our commitment to investing in top-tier talent to realise our ambitions in Africa. We are confident that their combined expertise and strategic vision will drive PZL to new heights."

The newly appointed Board Chair, 'Tokunboh Ishmael, brings over 20 years of experience in investment banking, private equity, technology, and business development across Africa, Europe, and North America. As a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and member of the CFA Institute, she is expected to provide valuable financial acumen and strategic insight to guide PZL's operations.

"I am honoured to chair the Board of Prudential Zenith Life at this pivotal time. I look forward to working alongside the management team to provide strategic oversight and contribute to the company's continued growth and success in the Nigerian market," Ishmael said.

Funmilayo Abimbola Omo, the new Managing Director/CEO, has extensive experience in the insurance and financial services sectors, with proven expertise in business transformation, customer-centric innovation, and operational excellence.

On her appointment, Omo remarked: "I am privileged to lead Prudential Zenith Life at such a pivotal time. The company's strong foundation, coupled with Prudential's global strength and commitment to Africa, presents a unique opportunity to redefine the life insurance landscape in Nigeria."

Under Prudential's full ownership and new leadership, PZL aims to leverage global expertise, technological advancements, and its strong bancassurance partnership with Zenith Bank to enhance the accessibility and reach of its insurance products across Nigeria.

The company has established itself as one of the most capitalized in the Nigerian insurance industry, with a gross written premium of N6.3 billion as of December 2022. PZL offers a wide range of individual products, including savings and investment-linked products, endowment, and protection plans, as well as corporate solutions such as Group Life, Key-Man Assurance, and Credit Life.

This strategic direction aligns with Prudential's broader ambition to bridge the insurance gap in Africa and accelerate financial and health protection for millions across the continent.