Continental Reinsurance Group has announced significant leadership transitions across its pan-African operations, reflecting the company's strategic evolution into a consolidated holding structure.

At the group level, Mr. Lawrence Nazare has been appointed as Group Managing Director of Continental Reinsurance Holdings, headquartered in Botswana. This appointment follows the completion of his tenure as Managing Director/CEO of Continental Reinsurance Plc, Nigeria, which ended in December 2024.

The group has also strengthened its board with the appointment of Mr. Paul Kokoricha as Chairman and Mr. Steve Iwenjora as Non-Executive Director. Both executives previously served on the board of Continental Reinsurance Plc, Nigeria.

Speaking on his transition, Mr. Kokoricha said: "It has been an honour to serve as Chairman of Continental Reinsurance Plc, Nigeria, where we achieved significant milestones in growth and governance. As we now pivot to a consolidated Group structure, I am excited to continue supporting the company at this higher level."

New Leadership for Nigeria Operations

In a major development for its Nigerian entity, Dr. Fatai Kayode Lawal has been appointed as the new Managing Director/CEO of Continental Reinsurance Plc, Nigeria, effective April 2025. Dr. Lawal will oversee operations across Anglophone West Africa.

Dr. Lawal brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served as Managing Director/Chief Executive of Sterling Assurance Nigeria Ltd. from 2007 to 2023. He holds a B.Sc. in Insurance and an MBA from the University of Lagos, as well as a Doctorate in Management from the University of Phoenix. He is also a Fellow of multiple professional bodies, including the Chartered Insurance Institute of London & Nigeria.

The Nigeria entity has also welcomed three new Non-Executive Directors who have received regulatory clearance from the National Insurance Commission:

- Mr. Segun Adebanji, appointed as Chairman of the Board, brings international experience from leadership positions at UAC, Unilever, Nigerian Breweries, and Heineken.

- Mrs. Funmilayo Omokhodion joins as a Non-Executive Director with 36 years of experience in reinsurance, including service as Regional Director for West Africa at Africa Re.

- Mrs. Eno Atoyebi, a Chartered Financial Analyst with over 25 years in investment management, has also been appointed as a Non-Executive Director.

These appointments coincide with Continental Re's 40th anniversary, marking four decades of the company's presence in Africa's reinsurance landscape.

With these strategic leadership changes, Continental Reinsurance Group appears well-positioned to strengthen its pan-African operations and drive its long-term growth strategy across the continent.