Following Prudential plc's full acquisition of the company, Prudential Zenith Life Insurance Limited (PZL) has announced key leadership appointments, signaling a reinforced commitment to the Nigerian and broader African insurance markets.

Prudential Zenith Life Insurance Limited (PZL) today unveiled significant changes to its leadership team, naming ‘Tokunboh Ishmael as the new Chair of its Board of Directors and Funmilayo Abimbola Omo as the new Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer. These strategic appointments come on the heels of Prudential plc's recent acquisition of the remaining 49% shares in PZL, a move that solidifies the Group's dedication to strengthening its presence in Nigeria and across Africa.

Bolstering Innovation and Market Presence

The appointments of Ms. Ishmael and Mrs. Omo are poised to significantly enhance PZL's ability to introduce innovative and value-added insurance solutions and services to its clients. This strategic leadership is expected to accelerate the company’s growth ambitions and reinforce Prudential’s overarching mission to be a trusted partner in financial and health protection for current and future generations.

Emmanuel Mokobi Aryee, CEO, Africa, Prudential, expressed enthusiasm for the new team. “We are delighted to welcome this exceptional leadership team at Prudential Zenith Life,” he said. “The appointments of both ‘Tokunboh Ishmael as Board Chair and Funmilayo Abimbola Omo as Managing Director/CEO demonstrate our commitment to investing in top-tier talent to realise our ambitions in Africa. We are confident that their combined expertise and strategic vision will drive PZL to new heights, delivering impactful and tailored insurance solutions that protect lives and empower futures across Nigeria.”

A Wealth of Experience at the Helm

‘Tokunboh Ishmael, the newly appointed Board Chair, brings over two decades of extensive experience as a distinguished impact investor. Her background spans investment banking, private equity, technology, and business development across Africa, Europe, and North America. As a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a member of the CFA Institute, her financial acumen and strategic insight are expected to be invaluable in guiding PZL.

L-R: Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Prudential Zenith Life Insurance Funmilayo Omo Africa Regional CEO, Prudential Africa - Emmanuel Aryee Mokobi and The Board Chairman Prudential Zenith Life insurance ‘Tokunboh Ishmael at the just concluded Board meeting 
Sharing her enthusiasm, Ms. Ishmael stated, “I am honoured to chair the Board of Prudential Zenith Life at this pivotal time. I look forward to working alongside the management team to provide strategic oversight and contribute to the company’s continued growth and success in the Nigerian market.”

Funmilayo Abimbola Omo, the new Managing Director/CEO, offers a rich history in the insurance and financial services sectors. Her proven expertise in business transformation, customer-centric innovation, and operational excellence positions PZL for accelerated growth and enhanced market impact.

Expressing her perspective on her new role, Mrs. Omo stated, “I am privileged to lead Prudential Zenith Life at such a pivotal time. The company’s strong foundation, coupled with Prudential’s global strength and commitment to Africa, presents a unique opportunity to redefine the life insurance landscape in Nigeria. I am eager to collaborate with our talented team and valued partners to foster innovation, broaden our reach, and make life insurance more accessible and impactful for all Nigerians.”

Leveraging Global Expertise and Strategic Partnerships

Under Prudential’s full ownership and guided by this robust leadership team, PZL is set to leverage global expertise, advanced technological capabilities, and its strong bancassurance partnership with Zenith Bank. This strategic direction aims to enhance the accessibility and reach of its insurance products across Nigeria. The move aligns with Prudential’s broader ambition to bridge the insurance gap in Africa and accelerate financial and health protection for millions across the continent.