Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has expressed support for ongoing efforts by the Nigerian insurance industry to expand public awareness and improve insurance penetration across the country.

Otti gave the commendation on Monday while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), led by its President, Mrs Ekeoma Ezeibe, at the Government House in Umuahia.

He highlighted the importance of insurance in protecting individuals, businesses, and investments from unexpected risks, noting that the industry’s decision to engage directly with the public was a positive step toward building confidence.

The governor stressed that effective regulation must involve close interaction with citizens, saying such engagement would help strengthen trust in the insurance system.

He also pointed out that many residents of Abia State are engaged in small and medium-scale enterprises, making insurance a vital safety net for business continuity and personal security.

Otti welcomed the proposed launch of the Insurance Penetration Initiative in Abia and pledged government support to encourage wider participation among residents.

He described insurance as a tool that provides assurance and stability in times of uncertainty, while commending industry leaders for their efforts to promote financial security and public confidence.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders in the sector to drive economic sustainability, financial inclusion, and inclusive growth across the state.

Mrs Ezeibe explained that the delegation was in Abia for the 2026 Insurance Chief Executive Officers’ Retreat and the launch of the Insurance Penetration Initiative, adding that the state was chosen as a pilot due to Otti’s developmental track record.

She praised the administration’s achievements in areas such as security, infrastructure development, improved electricity supply, and the revitalisation of commercial activity in Aba.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Insurance and CEO of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, described Abia as a key economic hub and praised efforts to strengthen insurance adoption in the state.

He highlighted provisions of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act 2025, including enhanced consumer protection measures and the establishment of a Policyholders Protection Fund.

Omosehin assured full regulatory support for initiatives aimed at deepening insurance awareness and improving adoption across the country.

The meeting was attended by top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, the Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, and others.