Continental Reinsurance Group Unveils Strategic Leadership Restructuring

Continental Reinsurance Group has announced a major leadership transition aimed at enhancing its corporate structure and reinforcing its strategic position across Africa. The new appointments come as the company deepens its transformation into a pan-African holding structure, focused on long-term growth and governance. At the forefront of this transition is the appointment of Mr. Lawrence Nazare as the new Group Managing Director of Continental Reinsurance Holdings, headquartered in Botswana. This follows the conclusion of his tenure as Managing Director/CEO of Continental Reinsurance Plc, Nigeria, in December 2024. In his new role, Mr. Nazare is expected to steer the Group’s overarching strategy and lead its operations across the continent. He is joined on the board of Continental Reinsurance Holdings by two esteemed professionals: Mr. Paul Kokoricha, former Chairman of Continental Reinsurance Plc, now elevated to Chairman at Group level, and Mr. Steve Iwenjora, who has moved from a Non-Executive Director role in Nigeria to serve the Group in the same capacity. Mr. Kokoricha expressed optimism about the Group’s future, stating that he looks forward to supporting the organization’s pan-African growth. Mr. Nazare, meanwhile, reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the Group’s strategic vision, acknowledging his past achievements in Nigeria and the opportunities that lie ahead.

New Leadership at the Helm in Nigeria

As part of the reorganization, Continental Reinsurance Plc, the Nigeria-based entity overseeing Anglophone West Africa, will now be led by Dr. Fatai Kayode Lawal as Managing Director/CEO, effective April 2025. Dr. Lawal brings a robust portfolio of experience, holding degrees in Insurance and Business Administration from the University of Lagos, and a doctorate in Leadership and Organisational Management from the University of Phoenix. Dr. Lawal’s track record includes his leadership at Sterling Assurance Nigeria Ltd, where he successfully navigated a multi-company merger and expanded the business significantly. Prior to that, he also held executive positions at Universe Reinsurance Co. Ltd and played a foundational role in the early operations of Continental Reinsurance. His appointment marks a return to familiar terrain, bolstered by years of success in market expansion, profitability enhancement, and organizational leadership.

Expanding the Board with Proven Industry Veterans

In a move to reinforce the Nigerian entity’s governance, three seasoned professionals have been appointed to the Board of Continental Reinsurance Plc as Non-Executive Directors. The new Chairman, Mr. Segun Adebanji, is a respected finance expert with global experience, having worked in executive capacities at firms like UAC, Unilever, and Heineken. He currently chairs Fidson Healthcare Plc and Filmhouse Group Ltd. Joining him is Mrs. Funmilayo Omokhodion, a Chartered Insurer with over three decades in reinsurance, including key leadership roles at Africa Re. Also appointed is Mrs. Eno Atoyebi, CFA, who has over 25 years of experience in investment management and currently leads ValuAlliance Asset Management.