In a historic move for Nigeria’s insurance sector, Leadway Assurance has appointed Adebisi Lamikanra as the new chairperson of its Board, following the retirement of General Martin Luther Agwai (retd.), who led the company since 2016. Lamikanra’s appointment marks a significant milestone for the company, reflecting its commitment to excellence, diversity, and visionary leadership.
A seasoned Chartered Accountant and Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Lamikanra brings nearly four decades of unparalleled experience in leadership, advisory, and strategic consultancy. She previously served as a Partner at Andersen Nigeria and made history as the first female Partner at KPMG Nigeria, where she retired as Head of Advisory Services and Lead for the African Region Advisory Practice. Her career spans work with leading local and multinational organizations, providing governance insights across multiple sectors.
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Experience and Vision: A New Era of Leadership
Lamikanra is a proud alumna of the University of Lagos and the Lagos Business School, with further executive training from Harvard Business School, INSEAD University, and the Kellogg School of Management. She also serves on the boards of Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Evercare Hospital Lekki, and Nestlé Nigeria, where her guidance continues to influence corporate governance and strategy.
Speaking on the appointment, the outgoing chairman, General Agwai, expressed his confidence in Lamikanra’s ability to carry the company forward.
“It has been a profound honour to serve Leadway Assurance, a company that continues to define trust and innovation in Nigeria’s financial services sector. Mrs. Lamikanra’s appointment represents a seamless continuation of this legacy; her integrity, professionalism, and wealth of experience will ensure that Leadway continues to grow stronger and advance firmly into its next chapter of success,” he said.
Lamikanra acknowledged her historic appointment with gratitude and optimism.
“I am deeply honoured to assume this responsibility at such a pivotal moment in Leadway Assurance’s journey. The organisation’s legacy of trust and innovation, built over five decades, continues to inspire confidence in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem. I look forward to working with the Board, management, and all stakeholders to strengthen this legacy, drive sustainable growth, advance digital transformation, and reinforce Leadway’s role as a catalyst for financial inclusion and economic development,” she said.
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Building on a Legacy of Excellence
Under General Agwai’s leadership, Leadway Assurance achieved significant milestones, including restructuring into a holding company, expanding across West Africa, and cementing its position as one of the region’s most trusted financial institutions. Lamikanra’s appointment signals a continuation of this vision, blending experience, foresight, and strategic acumen to navigate Nigeria’s evolving financial landscape.
Her leadership is expected to further enhance the company’s culture of innovation, governance, and sustainable growth, reinforcing Leadway’s position as a key driver of economic development and financial inclusivity in Nigeria.
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