Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc has once again demonstrated its commitment to building the future of Nigeria’s insurance industry, celebrating the 13th edition of its annual essay competition—a flagship initiative that continues to spotlight young talent and intellectual excellence.
A Legacy of Talent Development
Widely regarded as the longest-running essay competition in Nigeria’s insurance sector, the initiative has evolved into a powerful platform for:
- Encouraging research and innovation
- Promoting critical thinking
- Driving meaningful conversations about the future of insurance
This year’s event brought together industry leaders, professionals, and emerging talents, all united by a shared vision of advancing the sector.
Spotlight on Emerging Stars
The competition featured two categories:
- Internal category – employees within the Consolidated Hallmark Group
- External category – students and young professionals studying insurance and actuarial science
Participants tackled real-world industry challenges, offering fresh perspectives and forward-thinking solutions.
Top honours in the external category went to standout participants from:
- Imo State University, Owerri
- University of Jos
- Federal Polytechnic Offa
Their performances highlighted the depth of young talent emerging across Nigeria.
Industry Leaders Applaud the Initiative
The event attracted high-profile endorsements from key industry figures.
Yetunde Olubunmi Ilori, President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN), praised the programme’s long-standing impact:
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission of manpower development and has grown into a national reference point for excellence.”
Similarly, Kunle Ahmed, Chairman of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), described the competition as a strategic tool for industry growth, noting its consistency and long-term vision.
Winners Celebrate Excellence
In the external category, Favor Chinonso Agoha of Imo State University emerged as the overall winner, expressing gratitude for the opportunity:
“This platform doesn’t just reward excellence—it builds confidence and opens doors for young people.”
On the internal side, Thompson Omons clinched the top prize, describing the win as both validation and motivation to aim higher.
Winners across categories were rewarded with cash prizes, with top champions taking home ₦1 million each.
Driving a Knowledge-Based Industry
Group CEO Eddie Efekoha emphasized the importance of intellectual growth in the insurance sector:
“Insurance is a knowledge-driven industry. We must continue to invest in initiatives that promote research, innovation, and talent development.”
He also hinted at future collaborations to further expand the reach and impact of the programme.
Why This Matters for Nigeria’s Insurance Industry
As Nigeria’s insurance sector navigates:
- Rapid technological changes
- Evolving customer expectations
- Increasingly complex risks
Initiatives like this play a critical role in building the next generation of industry leaders.
By nurturing talent, encouraging innovation, and fostering dialogue, Consolidated Hallmark is helping to strengthen the foundation for long-term growth and resilience.
About Consolidated Hallmark Holdings
Listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group, Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc operates as a non-operating holding company with investments across financial services.
Its subsidiaries include:
- Consolidated Hallmark Insurance Limited
- CHI Life Assurance Limited
- Hallmark Finance Company Limited
- Hallmark Health Services Limited
