Continental Reinsurance Group has announced major leadership changes across its group and Nigerian operations as part of its strategic transition into a pan-African holding company. The move comes as the firm marks its 40th anniversary and aims to enhance governance, streamline regional operations, and accelerate growth across African markets.
At the group level, Lawrence Nazare, who previously served as Managing Director/CEO of Continental Reinsurance Nigeria until December 2024, has been appointed Group Managing Director of Continental Reinsurance Holdings. From his base in Botswana, Nazare will now oversee the group’s operations across multiple African territories, shaping its long-term strategic direction.
The group board has also welcomed two key additions: Paul Kokoricha, formerly Chairman of Continental Reinsurance Nigeria, now serves as Chairman of the Group Board, while Steve Iwenjora, previously a Non-Executive Director at the Nigerian entity, has been appointed to the Group Board.
In Nigeria, Dr. Fatai Kayode Lawal has assumed the role of Managing Director/CEO of Continental Reinsurance Plc effective April 2025. With decades of experience spanning Sterling Assurance, Universe Reinsurance, and other industry players, Lawal is expected to lead the firm’s Nigerian operations into its next phase of innovation and market expansion.
Additionally, Continental Re Nigeria has strengthened its board with the appointment of three Non-Executive Directors: Segun Adebanji (Chairman), Funmilayo Omokhodion, and Eno Atoyebi, CFA. All appointments have received regulatory approval from Nigeria’s National Insurance Commission.
These leadership changes reflect Continental Re’s broader transformation into a consolidated pan-African reinsurer, positioning it to better serve regional markets and respond to evolving industry demands.
